PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Former army chief, general (retd) Manoj Naravane stressed on the need for India to accelerate its development. He was speaking at a session on “India @2047 – A Century-Young Nation” on the concluding day of the 7th edition of the Dehradun Literature Festival at the Doon International School here on Sunday.
Recalling his connection with Dehradun and the IMA, Naravane spoke about India’s need to accelerate development, especially compared with Japan and China. He discussed rapid technological changes within the armed forces and stressed faster adaptation, also underscoring that India cannot progress without full and equal participation of women.
“Pen, Power, Provocation – Unfiltered, with Shobhaa De” emerged as one of the most anticipated sessions of the day, where the author, in conversation with Shubhi Mehta, reflected on authenticity, individuality and the evolving influence of the written word
Environmentalist Anoop Nautiyal led the session on “The Living Himalayas – Balancing Progress with Sustainability”. Focusing on Uttarakhand’s fragile ecology, he engaged students through questions about the state’s history and development, urging them to adopt sustainable practices even during festivals.
“The Indian Plate – Tradition, Taste and Trouble” featured noted nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar in conversation with Saumya Kulshreshtha, exploring India’s culinary heritage and how mindful eating, culture, and tradition together shape healthier lifestyles. Diwekar, during her session said, “Good health is actually very simple — it begins with simple, home-cooked food and sensible habits. The more we drift toward packaged and processed foods, the more we invite lifestyle diseases like diabetes and heart conditions. If your food needs an advertisement, it’s probably not good for you. Above all, never speak ill of your body, because health and happiness are inseparable and come in all shapes, sizes, and ages.”After various sessions, the event concluded with a performance by noted singer Usha Uthup.
