In a moment of immense pride, Parul University students secured the Best Speaker Award in the students’ Round Table Discussion on all three consecutive days, creating a historic hat-trick at a national forum.
A National Platform of Excellence – IEW
India Energy Week is one of the country’s most significant energy platforms, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, academicians, and students to deliberate on India’s energy future and Net Zero commitments.
The Leadership Round Table Discussion witnessed participation from:
- 6 prominent institutions
- Total student participants:
- Day 1 – 28 participants
- Day 2 – 16 participants
- Day 3 – 19 participants
Participating institutions included:
- IIT Goa
- NIT Goa
- BITS Goa
- Goa Engineering College
- Goa College
Rajiv Institute of Petroleum and Technology
From Parul University, Goa campus:
- Day 1 – 11 participants
- Day 2 – 4 participants
- Day 3 – 8 participants
Students were selected through self-nomination and evaluation based on academic performance, ensuring capable representation at the national level.
The Winners & Their Thought Leadership
Day 1 Winner
Ms. Mahek Sheikh
GNM, Faculty of Nursing
Topic:“Net Zero Emissions: Environmental, Economic & Societal Implications – Role of Oils & Biofuels in the Transition”
The discussion emphasised balancing energy security with sustainability, using conventional oils in the short term while scaling up biofuels for a cleaner future. Strong policy frameworks and collaboration were highlighted as essential for making the transition affordable and socially inclusive.
Day 2 Winner
Mr. Abhimanyu Dixit
B.Tech, Computer Science & Engineering
Topic:“Viksit Bharat 2047: Energy-Driven Development and the Growing Role of Emerging Energy Fuels”
The presentation explored how emerging energy fuels can drive India toward Net Zero Emissions while strengthening economic growth. The strong link between energy and national economic development was a key highlight of the discussion.
Day 3 Winner
Mr. Aaryan Kumar Tiwari
Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA)
Topic:“Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY): LPG’s Role in Social & Environmental Change and India’s NDC Commitments”
The discussion focused on the transformative impact of LPG adoption in rural households, shifting from traditional fuels like firewood to cleaner alternatives. The presentation also addressed how such policies contribute to India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under global climate commitments.
Connecting Energy to Society, Environment & National Goals
Across all three days, discussions clearly demonstrated how clean energy policies intersect with:
- Social Impact – Improving rural health and livelihoods
- Environmental Responsibility – Reducing pollution and carbon emissions
- India’s NDC Commitments – Aligning national growth with global climate goals
The students effectively articulated that the adoption of biofuels and LPG not only supports sustainability but also fosters inclusive economic growth.
What Made the Presentations Stand Out?
The jury appreciated the winners for:
- Clear and structured content
- Relevance to the assigned topic
- Inclusion of diverse viewpoints
- Depth of understanding
- Confident elocution and clarity
- Effective time management
- Strong responses during Q&A The students’ ability to simplify complex energy and policy issues into impactful insights distinguished them from other participants.
Esteemed Jury Panel
The discussions were evaluated by distinguished leaders from the energy and policy sectors:
Day 1 jury
- Mr. Pradeep Kumar Das, Chairman & Managing Director, IREDA
- Mr. Bhaskar Jyoti Phukan, Managing Director, Numaligarh Refinery Limited
Day 2 Jury
- Mr. Vinod Sheshan, Joint Secretary (Exploration), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas
- Mr. Arunangshu Sarkar, Director (Strategy & Corporate Affairs), ONGC
Day 3 Jury
- Mr. P. Manoj Kumar, Director General, PPAC
- Mr. Saumitra Srivastava, Director (Marketing), IOCL Their evaluation criteria focused equally on content excellence and communication skills.
Faculty Mentorship & Preparation
Although topics were predetermined by the organisers, Parul University faculty played a crucial role in:
- Supporting in-depth research
- Conducting classroom discussions
- Guiding content organisation
- Improving presentation structure
- Enhancing confidence and elocution
Students participated in faculty-led mock discussions and reviews, along with self-driven mock drills to refine their delivery and arguments. The university consistently encourages national-level participation by: • Sharing opportunities proactively • Providing mentoring support • Granting academic flexibility • Creating a confidence-building ecosystem
Student Reflections
Aaryan Kumar Tiwari (Winner, Day 3):
The IEW 2026 Leadership Round Table Discussion, held from 28th to 30th January 2026 at ONGC Goa under India Energy Week 2026, was a pivotal event that allowed me to explore new perspectives and grow as a leader. Winning the Best Speaker Award in the Students Round Table Discussion has strengthened my confidence to take up future leadership roles.”
Abhimanyu Dixit (Winner, Day 2):
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to share perspectives and learn directly from industry and policy leaders at IEW 2026. The discussion emphasised that India’s energy future lies in a secure, diversified, and sustainable energy mix.”
Faculty Voices of Pride
Dr. Prabhat Dessai, University Coordinator, Placement and Corporate Relations Cell:
“Students have proven that passion, when consistently spoken from the heart, is unstoppable.”
Anupama Biswas, Assistant Professor, Career Development Centre, Faculty of Engineering, IT and Computer Science:
“The students have gone above and beyond to meet the expectations of such a big platform. It is really a proud moment for our university. May they keep shining brighter.”
A Historic Hattrick for Parul University
Winning the Best Speaker Award on all three consecutive days at a national forum marks a historic hattrickfor Parul University, Goa.
This achievement reflects the university’s strong focus on:
- Policy Awareness
- Interdisciplinary Learning
- National-Level Engagement
- Leadership Development
By encouraging students to engage in real-world policy discussions on energy transition and sustainability, Parul University continues to nurture confident, informed, and future-ready leaders.