O.P. Jindal Global University Announces Inaugural World Ideas Forum In January 2027 To Mark Haryana's 60th Anniversary
O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) has announced the inaugural edition of the World Ideas Forum, scheduled to be held from January 23 to 25, 2027, at its campus in Sonipat, Haryana, to mark the 60th anniversary of the formation of Haryana.
The Forum will be organised under the theme “Where the World's Ideas Meet” and is conceived as an annual global gathering bringing together leaders from public life, universities, business, science, technology, arts and civil society to exchange ideas and discuss challenges facing the world.
Established on November 1, 1966, Haryana will mark 60 years of its formation in 2026. Through the initiative, JGU aims to strengthen Haryana's position as a destination for knowledge, creativity, international dialogue and intellectual exchange, while positioning Sonipat as a centre for global conversations.
Mr. Naveen Jindal, Founding Chancellor and Benefactor of O.P. Jindal Global University, said that Haryana's 60th anniversary provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and aspirations of its people while looking towards the state's future as a centre of education, innovation and knowledge.
He stated that the World Ideas Forum would carry forward the university's vision of bringing global voices to Sonipat and enabling young people to participate in conversations that would shape the coming decades.
A Global Gathering Rooted in a University
The World Ideas Forum will provide a multidisciplinary and non-partisan platform for dialogue across countries, cultures, professions and generations. The inaugural edition will focus on issues relating to governance, economic development, education, science, technology, sustainability, culture and human well-being.
The programme is envisaged to include keynote addresses, leadership dialogues, fireside conversations, public lectures, literary discussions, book launches and cultural performances. It will also feature innovation and start-up showcases, student debates, policy simulations and exhibitions covering art, music, theatre and design.
Professor (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University, said that the Forum was founded on the belief that ideas could help build a better world.
He emphasised the responsibility of universities to create spaces for free thinking, respectful dialogue and learning across differences. He further stated that the Forum would place young people at the centre of its initiatives, enabling them to engage with diverse perspectives and develop the judgment and sense of responsibility required to shape the future.
Building an Enduring Platform for Ideas
The World Ideas Forum is envisaged as a continuing institution, with successive editions intended to sustain conversations and build relationships beyond the annual gathering.
Its proposed initiatives include the World Ideas Lecture, World Ideas Award, World Ideas Book Prize and Global Young Ideas Fellowship. Other proposed platforms include the India Ideas Lecture, Future Leaders Dialogue and Global Universities Roundtable.
The university also envisages introducing the World Ideas Declaration, JGU Global Futures Report and World Ideas Index to extend the Forum's intellectual engagement into public debate and future collaboration.
Students and young leaders will be central to the initiative, with opportunities to engage directly with experienced leaders and practitioners.
Haryana at 60: Welcoming the World to Sonipat
The university stated that the Forum would provide Sonipat with an opportunity to develop an international identity through education and the exchange of ideas. It is also expected to strengthen academic and cultural connections, encourage partnerships and draw attention to the region's potential.
The timing of the Forum also coincides with the period when India marks 80 years of independence. The inaugural edition in January 2027 will provide an opportunity to reflect on the country's achievements and consider the institutions and capabilities required for its journey towards 2047.
Through the World Ideas Forum, JGU aims to bring global conversations to Haryana, create new opportunities for young people and establish Sonipat as a meeting place for ideas of global relevance.