Carrying on the tradition of the International Studies program at the Glendon Campus, we present to you India: Challenges to an Emerging Power. This conference, is an attempt to explore the historical legacy, rich diversity, and the colossal transformations that resonate through the fifth largest economy in the world, India.
After a highly successful conference on Russia in February 2003, in this year’s conference on India we hope to surpass previous levels of success. India holds a special place to York University, and more importantly at the Glendon Campus, as its first Principal, Mr. Escott Reid was the Canadian High Commissioner to India from 1952 to 1957. The unique aspect of this conference is that a team of senior students of the international Studies department spearheads it. Our purpose through this conference is to gain an in- depth understanding of how the largest democracy in the world functions and faces the challenges of a liberalizing economy.

International Conference

The organizing committee endeavors to carry on the excellence established in the previous years to provide a forum for students, academics, professionals, politicians and diplomats. This conference will enable participants and panelists to expand their knowledge and understanding of the past and present state of affairs of the region, and what the future may hold for India.

Field Research in India

During the fall semester, weekly seminars are carried out under the direction of Professor Arthur Rubinoff, a renowned specialist on India and it’s electoral processes. The purpose of this component is to provide the students with a solid knowledge base on the topic at hand.

The objective of the field research component is to immerse the committee members in Indian culture and society by way of first hand experience. Three weeks of field research in India will greatly enhance the quality and depth of knowledge required for the individual research essays being undertaken by each member of the group, which will later culminate to a publication.