India’s efforts to shape sustainable future across region lauded at East Asia Summit event

Key Event at Nalanda University Boosts India’s Climate and Education Goals

In a vibrant gathering at Nalanda University in Bihar’s Rajgir, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Secretary (East), P Kumaran, kicked off two important events on Thursday. These included the East Asia Summit (EAS) Knowledge Exchange Workshop on Energy Efficiency Policies and Programmes under Mission LiFE, plus the EAS Conclave of Heads of Higher Education Institutions. The workshops, organized with partners like RIS New Delhi, TERI, and the MEA, highlight India’s push for sustainable development.

Kumaran’s keynote speech emphasized how everyday people can drive big changes. He called for sustainable consumption patterns and energy-saving habits to meet global climate goals—ideas straight from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision. "The 21st century is the Asian century, and our universities will lead the way," he said, spotlighting the role of education in building a greener future.

This comes hot on the heels of India’s active role in EAS preparations. Just last week on September 10, Kumaran represented India at the EAS Preparatory Senior Officials’ Meeting (Prep-SOM) in Port Dickson, Malaysia. Chaired by Dato’ Sri Amran Mohamed Zin, Malaysia’s Foreign Affairs Secretary General as ASEAN Chair, the meeting brought together senior officials from EAS nations. Kumaran voiced India’s strong support for the upcoming 20th East Asia Summit and invited participants to the Nalanda events.

The EAS, launched in 2005 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, started with 16 countries: all ASEAN members, plus Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea. It grew in 2011 when the US and Russia joined at the sixth summit in Bali, Indonesia. Held yearly, it gathers leaders to tackle regional issues like energy efficiency, climate action, and education.

These initiatives tie into Mission LiFE—Lifestyle for Environment—a flagship program by PM Modi to encourage eco-friendly living. By hosting these at the historic Nalanda University, India is blending ancient wisdom with modern solutions for a sustainable Asia. As climate challenges grow, events like these show how collaboration can make a real difference.

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