A Debate competition on
Mahatma Gandhi's Path to Global Peace

Topic :Mahatma Gandhi'sPath to Global Peace

Date: 20th September 2025

Venue: College Auditorium.

Organized by: Bhavan's Gandhi Centre of Science and Human Values, Bharatiya Vidhya Bhavan, Bangalore in association with Gandhi Study Centre Government First Grade College, Harohalli as an IQAC initiative.

A debate competition on the topic "Mahatma Gandhi's Path to Global Peace" was successfully conducted on 20-09-2025 at College Auditorium The event aimed to encourage students to reflect on the principles of non-violence, truth, and harmony as advocated by Mahatma Gandhi and their relevance in the modern world.

The competition saw enthusiastic participation from students across various grades. The speakers presented well-researched arguments,drawing on historical events, Gandhian philosophy, current global conflicts, and peace initiatives.

Those in favour of the motion emphasized Gandhi's commitment to ahimsa, satyagraha, and civil disobedience as effective tools not only for India's independence but also as universal strategies for resolving conflicts. They highlighted how world leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela drew inspiration from Gandhi's ideals to bring about social and political change.

On the other hand, those not in favour of the motion presented critical perspectives on the limitations of non-violence in the face of modern-day terrorism, geopolitical tensions, and economic disparities.They arguedthat while Gandhi's path is morally upright, it may not always be practical or effective in today's complex global scenarios.

The debate was judged by a panel of esteemed teachers/experts who praised the depth of knowledge,clarity of thought, and articulation skills displayed by the participants. After a closely contested round, the students from the arts stream of the college have bagged all the three Prizes, as the winners for their convincing arguments and eloquent delivery.

In the first round 31 students participated and 15 were shortlisted for the main event. Three were selected for the Prizes, viz Kum. Vidyashree, II-B.A. for 1st Prize; Kum.Sigeon Deeksha.J, II-BA for 2nd Prize; Kum. Uha Shankar.V of 1stB.A. third prize. The prizes were given on Gandhi Jayanti Day.

Dr. Hemanaik, Assoc. Prof., Dept of Sociology, Dr. Ravikumar.R, Assoc. Prof. Dept. of Commerce and Dr. Chetan.J, Asst. Prof. Dept. of Political Science were the judges, Prof. Umesh.H.R, of Gandhi Study Centre con-ordinated the programme. Prof. Kishora.M Principal, presided over the occasion. Gandhi Centre’s books were given as prizes to the winners, I Prize – 6 books; II Prize - 5 books; III Prize - 4 books, and one book each to all the participants and to the judges. 

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Anita,C.V,Asst. Prof. & HoD. Economics.

Conclusion:

The debate served as a meaningful platform for young minds to engage with Gandhian thought and assess its role in shaping a peaceful global society. It successfully fostered critical thinking and reinforced the enduring relevance of Mahatma Gandhi's message in today's world.