The OISCA International South India Chapter’s Global Summit 2024 commenced at IIM Kozhikode today. Justice Devan Ramachandran of the Kerala High Court inaugurated the event, in the presence of IIM Kozhikode Director Prof. Debashis Chatterjee who presided over the event. The summit focused on the theme “Environment and Climate Sustainability.” K. Jayakumar IAS, Founder President of the OISCA Kozhikode Chapter, delivered the keynote address, while OISCA International President Etsuko Nakano, Vice President Yasuki Nagaishi, and Secretary General Fumio Kitsuki also addressed the gathering. International participants and members of OISCA from Japan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Taiwan were among the 400+ members who attended the event at IIM Kozhikode.
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The Calicut Edition of OISCA Global Summit also adopted a historic ‘Calicut Declaration’ at the Valedictory Ceremony of the Event this evening: “We the participants of “OISCA GLOBAL SUMMIT 2024 on Natural Environment and Climate Sustainability” gathered here from diverse sectors, disciplines, and geographies, affirm our collective responsibility to protect and preserve our earth’s ecosystems for current and future generations. We recognize the urgent need for transformative action to address the escalating challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation. We are committed to adapting sustainable practices, fostering innovation and strengthening global cooperation to ensure a resilient and healthy planet.”
Earlier, Chief Guest Justice Devan Ramachandran renowned for his proactive and compassionate approach to legal matters, particularly in areas of public interest and championing causes such as environmental preservation inaugurated the event and said “Every individual can contribute towards bringing change in the current climate crisis that we are facing by changing their perception, as perceptions are resistant to change. It is important to move from an anthropocentric approach to eco-centric to realise that nature’s resources are not just for humans, but it exists to maintain the delicate balance of environment.” He also highlighted how the judiciary is playing an active part in safeguarding environment citing example of a ban on plastic in and around ‘Sabarimala’, which was passed recently.
In his presidential address Prof. Debashis Chatterjee shared “At IIM Kozhikode, we believe that sustainability is more than a goal; it is a way of life deeply rooted in our guiding principles of Satyam (Truth), Nityam 
(Sustainability), and Purnam (Wholeness). Hosting the OISCA International Global Summit aligns with our mission to foster environmental stewardship and global collaboration. From being a water-neutral, plastic-free campus to housing over 650 species of biodiversity, IIM Kozhikode exemplifies how academic institutions can lead the way in harmonizing progress with ecological integrity. Together with partners like OISCA, we can inspire meaningful action and build a sustainable future for generations to come.”
OISCA International President Etsuko Nakano, expressed her gratitude to IIM Kozhikode and the OISCA South India Chapter for organising this edition of the OISCA Global Summit. She recounted the inspiring journey of more than six decades of OISCA in creating a community of environmental crusaders. She added that the best way to mitigate challenges emerging out of “Environment and Climate Sustainability” is through ‘Co-operative Action’.
K. Jayakumar IAS, Founder President of the OISCA Kozhikode Chapter and Former Chief Secretary of Kerala, spoke about the importance of environmental protection and spreading ecological values. He urged the young members of the audience to adopt a ‘sustainable lifestyle’ to counter the unchallenged march of ‘consumption’ that is the root cause of disrupting the rhythm of nature.
The event featured talks by IIM Kozhikode Associate Professor Anupam Das, L. Radhakrishnan IAS, Dr. N. Krishnakumar IFS, Prof. K.V. Jayakumar from IIT Dharwad, Dr. Manoj P. Samuel, Director of CWRDM, and others. Organizing Committee Chairman K. Anandamani gave the introductory speech, while OISCA South India Chapter President K.K. Chandran delivered the welcome address, and Secretary General Aravind Babu proposed the vote of thanks. Separate sessions were also held for school and college students to present their papers.
The valedictory session, included addresses by Prof. V.R. Bhargavi from the Bangalore Chapter, Anil Kumar from the Telangana Chapter, Dr. Arsu, Dr. Subodhanan, and Prof. Philip K. Antony. The event concluded with cultural performances.
The event successfully united diverse voices in a shared mission of sustainability, marking another milestone in fostering global dialogue on environmental stewardship. Submitted by IIM Kozhikode PR Team
