It has been incredible to watch India’s recent general election which saw Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi re-elected for a third consecutive term in office. More than 642 million Indians voted over a marathon six-week-period, making it the largest ever democratic exercise in the world. While it was expected Modi would return to power with a resounding mandate, instead voters handed him a humbling result. I unpack the election with Indian High Commissioner, H.E. Gopal Baglay and I discuss what India’s election means for Australia and the world in the Lowy Interpreter.
Our 2023 Annual Report is out, and it provides a snapshot of what our small but mighty team has been able to accomplish in one year. We also saw the bilateral relationship elevated to new heights with the Institute at the forefront, providing research, dialogues and engagements. We achieved a number of significant milestones, including delivering our inaugural Kolkata Dialogue on building island state resilience.
We are building upon these achievements in 2024, with our track 1.5 Australia India Renewables Dialogue next month. Climate Change and Energy Minister, The Hon. Chris Bowen will participate in discussions with leaders in the field on the diverse opportunities created by both countries’ net-zero targets.
I would like to extend my congratulations to the Centre for Australia-India relations’ inaugural Maitri fellows. I was thrilled to welcome two of the fellows- Riya Sinha and Sunaina Kumar, show them around my old stomping ground, Parliament House in Canberra, and meet with Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, The Hon. Tim Watts to discuss their research topics.
I am pleased to announce our first Education program for 2024, InnovEd, that will engage experts on the opportunities for online education for both countries. Finally, happy international yoga day. Wishing everyone good health and peace as we reach the half-way point of the year!
Best
Lisa