Sixth edition of The Hindu Huddle kicked off in Bengaluru June 5, 2026,with Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar opening event. This two-day conclave, themed “A world in transition,” tackles pressing global issues from economic tariffs to AI's evolving role.
Panels feature diverse experts discussing diplomacy's impact in crisis management, especially amid West Asia's ongoing conflict. Speakers include former Indian Ambassador to U.S. Nirupama Rao, who called India "power" that values dialogue over picking sides in disputes.
In session “The Power of Words: Diplomacy at a time of conflict,” Rao reflected on India's historical stance towards Israel and Palestine, noting a complex relationship shaped by decades of policy. She said, “We have positioned this whole question of India’s Israel policy against the background of our policy towards West Asia since Independence.” Rao acknowledged diplomacy's challenges today, stressing dialogue is more crucial than ever.
Agreeing,Hervé Delphin,EU Ambassador to India, remarked on chaotic global power dynamics. He warned relying on raw power risks more instability,as seen in West Asia . Delphin stressed diplomacy's role in easing conflicts and steering conversations to prevent fragmentation.
Australian High Commissioner Philip Green called current diplomatic landscape a time of opportunity. He noted Australia's commitment to working with allies like India and Japan to tackle regional challenges. Green emphasized upholding global rules while pushing for their evolution,saying,“Rather than worry about the world where rules don’t exist, we need to protect the rules that exist.”
As talks continued, panelists addressed environmental concerns and development's intersection with ecology . Jairam Ramesh,Rajya Sabha MP,pointed out India's progressive environmental laws but noted a growing view of them as regulatory burdens . He urged balanced approach recognizing ecological health's importance in policy.
Dr. Krithi Karanth, CEO of Centre for Wildlife Studies, pushed for community involvement in resolving man-animal conflicts, emphasizing data-driven solutions. She expressed optimism about grassroots wildlife protection efforts, asserting that India’s biodiversity deserves celebration and protection.
The session also delved into need for renewed understanding of global order, with Delphin rejecting notion of “middle powers” and advocating cooperation based on shared goals. “The question is whether we want to gang up together against others . It has to be issue-based and inclusive,” he stated.
Event coincides with World Environment Day, acting as platform for addressing culture, technology,and environmental issues' interplay in society today. As discussions unfold, focus remains on balancing development with ecological integrity…
