At the joint inauguration of the East Asia Summit (EAS) Knowledge Exchange Workshop on Energy Efficiency Policies and Programs – Mission LiFE, and the EAS Conclave of Heads of Higher Education Institutions, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Secretary (East) P. Kumaran highlighted India’s commitment to sustainable growth. The event took place Thursday at Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar, and was organized in collaboration with RIS New Delhi, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), and the MEA.
In his keynote address, Kumaran underscored the need for sustainable consumption habits and energy-saving behaviors, reflecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision under Mission LiFE. He emphasized that individual actions play a vital role in addressing climate change and that universities will serve as guiding lights in shaping the “Asian century.”
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the remarks on X, noting that Kumaran’s intervention reinforced India’s focus on people-driven solutions to meet climate targets.
Earlier this month, Kumaran also represented India at the East Asia Summit Preparatory Senior Officials’ Meeting (Prep-SOM) held in Port Dickson, Malaysia. There, he conveyed India’s “constructive support” for the upcoming 20th East Asia Summit and extended invitations to EAS member countries to participate in the Nalanda workshops and conclave.
The Prep-SOM was chaired by Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin, Secretary General of Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with senior officials from all EAS member states in attendance.
The East Asia Summit, first convened in 2005 in Kuala Lumpur, brings together heads of state and government from across the Asia-Pacific. Originally comprising 16 members, including ASEAN nations along with India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, the forum expanded in 2011 when the United States and Russia joined during the Bali summit.
With its focus on sustainable practices, education, and regional cooperation, the EAS continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue. India’s emphasis on Mission LiFE and higher education collaboration reflects its broader aim to strengthen Asia’s role in driving global progress in climate action and development.
