Day 1 of The Conclave 2025 Comes to a Close: Key Highlights and Discussions

The Conclave 2025 is set to light up New Delhi with two days of bold ideas and powerful conversations. Hosted by Pratidin Media Network at The Ashok, this flagship event brings together some of India’s most influential voices — from spiritual leaders and union ministers to actors, generals, academics, and grassroots changemakers — putting Assam and the Northeast firmly in the national spotlight.

Day 1 opens with a thought-provoking keynote by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder of the Art of Living Foundation, on World Peace and Harmony. The momentum builds with hard-hitting panels on border security, trade and commerce, youth entrepreneurship, health and cancer care, floods and dams, and power politics in Northeast India.

Key speakers include Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry; Gaurav Gogoi, Deputy Leader of INC in Lok Sabha & APCC President; Suniel Shetty, Bollywood actor and entrepreneur; and Sanjay Singh, Member of Parliament, AAP.

With its mix of politics, policy, and people’s voices, The Conclave 2025 promises more than just dialogue — it is where ideas collide, solutions emerge, and the voice of the Northeast resonates across India.

Your minute-by-minute window into The Conclave 2025 — keep refreshing!

Sep 14, 2025 18:28 IST
AAP Leader Sanjay Singh on the Final Session of The Conclave 2025
Addressing the concluding session of The Conclave 2025, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh reflected on the journey of the party since its inception through grassroots movements.
Singh stated, “The Aam Aadmi Party was born out of a people’s movement. In 2012-13, when we promoted the party, people laughed at us—they didn’t even know our name. Mr. Arvind Kejriwal worked tirelessly, and over the past 10 years, we have delivered substantial results.”
Highlighting AAP’s governance model, Singh said, “We are the first party in India to provide free electricity, free water, free education, and medical treatments. We built government schools in Delhi of such high standard that even the wife of the American President specifically wanted to see the schools established by Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia. Delhi now has world-class government schools.”
He criticized the opposition, saying, “Winning three consecutive terms made the BJP attempt to defame us. From our excise policy to allegations of deteriorating water supply, they launched a systematic campaign to undermine our government.”
On women-focused initiatives, Singh added, “We introduced free buses for women and maintained a profit budget for Delhi for ten years. Yet, in 2025, many of our leaders were jailed. They accused us of promoting alcohol consumption, but we had kept the drinking age at 25—BJP later reduced it to 21 while still defaming us.”
Singh also alleged electoral malpractice, stating, “In New Delhi’s Kejriwal constituency, over 42,000 votes were cut even before elections began. They used a two-pronged strategy—defame us and manipulate votes. At the Centre, in the State, in the MCD, and even among top officials, the BJP controls everything. Within six months, electricity cuts started, and artificial floods were reported.”
He concluded, “Today, there is no real debate or news coverage on television. The discussion will only surface when Kejriwal himself appears on TV.”



Sep 14, 2025 17:55 IST
Floods, Dams, and Power Politics in Northeast India: Experts Weigh In
The penultimate session of The Conclave 2025 today focused on floods, dams, and power politics in Northeast India, with experts analyzing the region’s unique geographic and developmental challenges.
Dr. Bhagwat Pran Duara, Professor, Department of Geological Sciences, Gauhati University, highlighted Assam’s vulnerability: “Assam’s floods are largely due to its geographic location. Historically, the Brahmaputra has flooded repeatedly. After the 1950 earthquake in Arunachal Pradesh, many hill formations loosened, sending debris into the Brahmaputra, raising its riverbed and exacerbating flooding. In 1954, during massive floods across Assam, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, the National Flood Commission was formed. They proposed immediate, short-term, and long-term flood management plans, leading to the construction of temporary embankments—many of which remain the primary flood control measures even today.”
Tarun C. Borgohain, former Executive Director of NEEPCO, emphasized the environmental impact of development: “Assam is a narrow strip of land, receiving massive water inflows from the Himalayas. River belts have been destroyed in the name of development, and natural events like cloudbursts still occur. For instance, National Highway 15 was constructed over 3-5 meters above the riverbed more than 55 years ago. Today, riverbeds have risen above it. To prevent flooding, rivers need open channels, yet our interventions compete with nature rather than cooperate. Many of our planning assumptions fail to account for regional specifics.”
Tula Ram Gogoi, advocate and social activist, spoke about the human and cultural cost: “The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project sparked discussions on protecting the lives, livelihoods, and culture of people in the affected area. From 2003 onwards, strong public movements arose, culminating in court battles in 2016—many of which continue. Even Prime Minister Modi had previously opposed some embankments at Pasighat, which we welcomed. Similarly, then-Rajnath Singh led protests at Gerukamukh in 2009. According to reports, there is not a single embankment worldwide with 17 expert committees reviewing it—and even these have not solved the problem. Recently, the Lok Sabha identified this embankment as being in a dangerous condition.”



Sep 14, 2025 17:18 IST
Penultimate Session of Day 1 at The Conclave 2025 Underway
The penultimate session of Day 1 at The Conclave 2025 is currently underway, focusing on “Floods, Dams, and Power Politics in Northeast India.”
The distinguished panel includes:
Tula Ram Gogoi, Advocate, Gauhati High Court
Prof. Bhagwat Pran Duara, Department of Geological Sciences, Gauhati University
Tarun C. Borgohain, Former Executive Director, NEEPCO
The session is being moderated by Nayan Pratim Kumar, Political Editor, Pratidin Time.



Sep 14, 2025 16:42 IST
40–60% Cancer Patients Arrive Too Late, Experts Warn
In India, 40–60% of cancer patients approach treatment only at Stage III or IV, making early detection crucial, warns Devasish Sharma, IAS and founder of the Dipsikha Foundation. He revealed that over 50,000 cancer patients in Assam are currently registered with the foundation, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and timely diagnosis. “Delayed treatment drastically reduces life expectancy—often to less than five years. Early identification can save lives,” Sharma said, pointing out Kerala as a model state for cancer awareness.
Sharma also highlighted a worrying rise in oral cancer cases in Assam, linking it to the consumption of pan, betel nut, gutkha, and processed foods, all of which can contribute to cancer risk.
Dr. Arun Deka, HOD of Pain & Palliative Care at the State Cancer Institute, Guwahati, emphasized the need for palliative care: “At these late stages, palliative support becomes critical. Due to a shortage of trained staff and interlinked facilities, we strive to provide care for as many patients as possible.”
Sharma added that even if financial assistance is limited, awareness and timely support can provide crucial palliative care, which is not just needed for cancer but for other serious illnesses as well.



Sep 14, 2025 16:39 IST
Early Detection and Care Take Center Stage at The Conclave 2025
The Conclave 2025 today hosted a powerful discussion on cancer and its care, featuring renowned oncologist Dr. Tapan Saikia of the State Cancer Institute, Guwahati, specialist Dr. Arun Deka, IAS officer and Dipsikha Foundation Founder Devasish Sharma, and cancer survivor and singer Jina Rajkumari Goswami.
Speaking candidly about her journey, Jina Goswami shared, “Women often hesitate to confront issues, which makes challenges tougher. My involvement with the B. Borooah Cancer Institute gave me the courage to face this disease. Even on the day of my surgery, I performed at Assam Jatiya Bidyalay at the request of nurses and encouraged other patients. Battling cancer is never easy.”
Dr. Tapan Saikia highlighted the growing prevalence of cancer, especially breast cancer, noting that it is on the rise globally and in Northeast India. He stressed the need for research and awareness in the region. He also praised Assam’s progress in cancer care over the last five years, adding that 80% of patients now avoid traveling outside the state for treatment.
Dr. Saikia emphasized the importance of time and attention in patient care: “Even with advanced stages, spending quality time with patients reduces their suffering. Eight patients may take eight hours to attend properly, but this ensures better outcomes.”
The session combined expert guidance with personal narratives, underscoring the need for early detection, compassionate care, and awareness to improve survival rates.



Sep 14, 2025 15:58 IST
Session 5 of The Conclave 2025 – Dealing with Cancer: Care & Cure – underway.
The session brings together an inspiring panel to discuss cancer awareness, treatment, and stories of hope. Noted singer and cancer survivor Jina Rajkumari Goswami shares her journey of resilience, joined by leading oncologist Dr. Tapan Saikia, Dr. Arun Deka, HOD of Pain & Palliative Care at the State Cancer Institute, Guwahati, and Devasish Sharma (IAS), Founder of Dipsikha Foundation. The conversation is being steered by Sunit Kumar Bhuyan, Executive Editor, Pratidin Time.



Sep 14, 2025 15:42 IST
“India Will Be a $30 Trillion Economy by 2047”: Piyush Goyal at The Conclave 2025
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal delivered a powerful address at Session 4: Trade, Commerce & Beyond at The Conclave 2025, crediting India’s growth to strong, decisive leadership.
“We are the world’s fastest-growing large economy because we have a decisive leader in Prime Minister Modi,” Goyal said. “By 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence, India will be a $30 trillion economy.”
On inflation, he stressed: “In the last 4–5 years, petrol prices have not been increased even by one rupee. India’s inflation rate today is just 2% — the lowest in 77 years of independent India. Controlling inflation has been this government’s priority. During Congress rule, inflation touched 25–27% annually.”
Addressing the rupee-dollar exchange, Goyal explained: “The whole world is witnessing volatility and uncertainty. Every emerging market currency has weakened. This is temporary and will improve as global stability returns.”
He hailed GST as a “game-changing reform” that replaced 35+ taxes and lowered rates on essential goods: “This has benefitted the common man and strengthened MSMEs — the backbone of India’s economy.”
Turning to Assam and the Northeast, he said: “Under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and PM Modi’s guidance, the progress in the Northeast has been historic. PM Modi has visited the region over 50 times, ensuring rail and highway connectivity to every state capital. India cannot grow unless the Northeast grows — and this government has made that its mission.”



Sep 14, 2025 15:04 IST
Piyush Goyal Headlines Post-Lunch Session at The Conclave 2025
Post-lunch, Union Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal takes the stage for Session 4: Trade, Commerce & Beyond at The Conclave 2025.
The session is being moderated by Rishi Baruah, Director, Pratidin Media Network.



Sep 14, 2025 14:47 IST
Focus Shifts to SIT Report as Gaurav Gogoi Fires Back
At The Conclave 2025, Deputy Leader of INC in Lok Sabha & APCC President Gaurav Gogoi hit out over the SIT probe and personal attacks:
“The SIT came to my Delhi residence twice, questioned my family, but not me. Why the secrecy? Upload the report online and let the people of Assam judge for themselves. Those who set the trap have fallen into it.
If September 10 meant nothing, why did Assam not see my Bihu dance that day? Don’t be bitter — invite me, play your favorite song, and we’ll dance together.
I hear claims about foreign citizens in my family. But aren’t countless Assamese abroad, holding Indian citizenship? Are they not Assamese? My wife embraced Assam’s culture and the people embraced her — that’s the generosity of our land.
And if the CM sees ‘body doubles’ everywhere, then make the SIT report public. I want to check if I have one too!”
The hall responded with laughter and applause as Gogoi turned the controversy into a demand for transparency.



Sep 14, 2025 14:01 IST
“Policies Should Serve People, Not Just a Few,” Says Gaurav Gogoi
Deputy Leader of INC in Lok Sabha & APCC President Gaurav Gogoi reflected on the legacy of his father, the late Tarun Gogoi, saying: "We learned a lot from his work in rural development, health, and social systems. Today, teachers and officials are often disrespected, contractors are intimidated, and even with medical colleges, civil hospitals lack doctors. I personally witnessed children dying due to nurse shortages at GMCH. That’s why quality healthcare remains a top priority."
On economic performance, he added: "The state’s economic record is as disappointing as the CM’s performance on September 10. While he aims to rank Assam among the top five states, earlier education and health system under him, were among the bottom five."
Gogoi highlighted Assam’s financial resilience: "Back in 2001, when Congress returned to power amid fiscal challenges, salaries couldn’t be paid. Tarun Gogoi brought in experts and World Bank officials to prepare a roadmap, ensuring stability despite a BJP-led Centre. Today, BJP leadership often ignores experts and crafts policies except on just one or two industrialists. As a politician, I focus on listening and acting responsibly."



Sep 14, 2025 13:40 IST
Gaurav Gogoi Slams PM Modi’s Delayed Response to Manipur Crisis
Deputy Leader of INC in Lok Sabha & APCC President Gaurav Gogoi criticized the government’s response to crises, stating: "The fire in Manipur happened two years ago, yet Prime Minister Modi visited only after a long delay. From the photos we’ve seen, the leadership and responsibility required at that moment were not reflected in his actions."
He emphasized Congress’s commitment to respecting all communities in the Northeast, including Assam’s six ethnic groups, and questioned the government’s promise on citizenship:
"The BJP and the Prime Minister had said citizenship would be granted within six months — I hope that was a genuine commitment, not just rhetoric. Today, four months have passed since the Pahalgam attack, and at that time, the PM was in Saudi Arabia. On returning, he should have visited Jammu & Kashmir first but instead went to Bihar for political events."
Gogoi added, "I see no sense of urgency from Prime Minister Modi. Now, forming a government requires collaboration with multiple parties. Even though we are far from Delhi, we must take responsibility ourselves. From Guwahati, we must go to Delhi and make our voices heard strongly."



Sep 14, 2025 13:35 IST
“Power Belongs to the People”: Gaurav Gogoi on Governance
Deputy Leader of INC in Lok Sabha & APCC President Gaurav Gogoi speaking at The Conclave 2025 stated, "In a democracy, power belongs to the people. After 10 years in office, key promises like the Assam Accord and Sixth Schedule remain unfulfilled. The government now serves an individual and a single family — even inviting an external artist requires their approval. True governance must put people first, not personal interests."



Sep 14, 2025 13:20 IST
Gaurav Gogoi on Responsibility & Gratitude at The Conclave 2025
Deputy Leader of INC in Lok Sabha & APCC President Gaurav Gogoi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Congress from the Northeast at a young age. He said, “Life will always have challenges, but I feel proud to follow the ideals of the late Tarun Gogoi, love for Assam, and the aspiration to build a greater Assam.”



Sep 14, 2025 13:16 IST
Gaurav Gogoi Takes the Stage at The Conclave 2025
Deputy Leader of INC in Lok Sabha & APCC President Gaurav Gogoi has taken his seat at The Ashok, New Delhi. The session is being moderated by Nitumoni Saikia, Editor-in-Chief, Pratidin Time.



Sep 14, 2025 12:41 IST
Suniel Shetty on Roots & Culture at The Conclave 2025
“I never thought that the nickname Anna would get along with me, but now I don’t look back if someone doesn’t call me Anna. It’s a personal connect now.
Where in the Northeast they don’t showcase their culture, they live it — and that’s exactly where I come from in South India. I travel back to my village 5–10 times a year; it grounds me and gives me renewed energy. My children follow it, and even my five-and-a-half-month-old grandchild is connected to our culture.
The idea is to make sure you connect to your roots, and that’s the beauty of our country. We are deeply rooted, and that’s why the world looks up to us.”



Sep 14, 2025 12:25 IST
Suniel Shetty Felicitated as Youth & Entrepreneurship Panel Begins
Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty was welcomed at The Ashok for The Conclave 2025. The session is moderated by Rishi Baruah, Director, Pratidin Media Network, who felicitated the actor before the discussion began.




Sep 14, 2025 12:18 IST
Dr. Mirza Zulfiqur Rahman on Northeast India & Borders
“Northeast India sits in a complex international neighborhood and is a key pivot in the Indo-Pacific. While connectivity and development have improved in recent years, their impact depends on stability and relations with neighboring countries.”



Sep 14, 2025 12:10 IST
Prof. M. Amarjeet Singh on Northeast Youth & Borders
“The Northeast, surrounded by several countries, faces both opportunities and challenges at its international borders. Youth discontent, especially due to limited employment, is rising — similar to movements we’ve seen in Nepal and Bangladesh. This frustration among young people could have serious repercussions for the region.”



Sep 14, 2025 11:57 IST
Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Rana Pratap Kalita on Northeast Borders
“The Northeast borders are strategically vital for India, especially amid recent geopolitical changes in Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal. Porous borders, traditional migration, unresolved disputes, insurgencies, and rising fundamentalism make the situation complex.
Peace and security, both along the borders and internally, are crucial for integrating the Northeast and enabling its development.”



Sep 14, 2025 11:27 IST
Session 1 on ‘Northeast at the Borders’ Kicks Off at The Conclave 2025
The first session of The Conclave 2025, “Northeast at the Borders,” has begun at The Ashok. The panel features Prof. M. Amarjeet Singh (Jamia Millia Islamia), Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Rana Pratap Kalita, and Dr. Mirza Zulfiqur Rahman (Institute of Chinese Studies, New Delhi), with Mrinal Talukdar, Consulting Editor at Pratidin Time, moderating the discussion. The guests were felicitated before the session commenced.



Sep 14, 2025 11:02 IST
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Lauds Pratidin Group for Amplifying Northeast’s Voice
Spiritual Leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar praised Chairman Jayanta Baruah and the Pratidin Group for giving the Northeast a national platform. Calling the region “a sacred place that must be preserved,” he emphasized that the seven states are vital for India’s growth.
He urged the media to act responsibly, remain neutral, and earn the trust of the people. “News has to be fresh — only then does it have life,” he said, appreciating Pratidin Media Network for delivering the right news to the public.
He also lauded the talent of the Northeast, saying, “Whenever people from the region compete, they win all the medals.”



Sep 14, 2025 10:57 IST
Jayanta Baruah Welcomes Guests, Highlights Conclave’s Vision
Chairman of the Sadin-Pratidin Group, Jayanta Baruah, delivered the inaugural address, extending a warm welcome to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and all dignitaries present. He expressed gratitude for Sri Sri’ Ravi Shankar's presence and reflected on the journey of The Conclave since 2022.
Baruah said the aim and purpose of the conclave have always been “simple yet powerful” — to create a platform that strengthens Assam and the Northeast and brings their voices to the national stage.



Sep 14, 2025 10:43 IST
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Lights the Lamp to Open The Conclave 2025
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Spiritual Leader & Founder of the Art of Living Foundation, inaugurated the 4th edition of The Conclave 2025 today. The event opened with a ceremonial lamp lighting by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Shri Jayanta Baruah, Chairman & Owner of the Sadin-Pratidin Group.




Sep 14, 2025 09:26 IST
The Conclave 2025 – Day 1 About to Begin
New Delhi is set for a power-packed day as The Conclave 2025, hosted by Pratidin Media Network, is all set to kick off at 10:30 AM at The Ashok. The event will be inaugurated by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Spiritual Leader & Founder, Art of Living Foundation.

Day 1 will feature hard-hitting sessions on border security, youth entrepreneurship, trade, health, floods & dams, and politics, with key voices including Suniel Shetty, Gaurav Gogoi, Piyush Goyal, and Sanjay Singh.
Stay tuned here for live updates, big moments, and key takeaways as the Northeast takes center stage in the nation’s capital.