Champions of Policy Making: Meet the Distinguished Jury Panel of the BRICS Policy Making Award

In a remarkable endeavor to recognize and celebrate excellence in the realm of policy making, the BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BRICS CCI) proudly introduces the prestigious BRICS Policy Making Award. This distinguished accolade represents a pivotal segment within the broader framework of the BRICS Annual Recognition Award program, a momentous event slated to take place on January 19, 2024.

About BRICS Policy Making Award:

The BRICS Policy Making Award is a testament to the significance of policy formulation in shaping the destinies of nations and communities. It encompasses several categories and individual nominations, each serving as a beacon of honor for those who have displayed exceptional acumen and dedication in the field of policy making. The categories include:

• BRICS Policy Making Award – For Policy Makers/Government/Individuals
• BRICS Policy Making Leadership Award
• BRICS Policy Making Innovation Award

These categories stand as a testament to the multifaceted nature of policy making, recognizing not only the outcomes but also the leadership and innovation that drive it forward.

Introducing the Distinguished Jury Panel – Policy Making:

Now, let us introduce you to the esteemed individuals who constitute the erudite Jury Panel for the BRICS Policy Making Award:

1. Hon’ble Chairperson KJ Alphons

Designation: Former Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism

K. J. Alphons is a towering figure in Indian politics, celebrated for his distinguished career in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). He served with unwavering dedication in the Kerala cadre for 27 years, holding a Master’s in Economics and achieving excellence in the 1979 Civil Services Examination. Notably, he pursued his LLB while serving as the Commissioner for the Delhi Development Authority, earning the moniker ‘The Demolition Man’ for his resolute leadership in demolishing over 14,000 illegal structures. In 2017, he played a pivotal role in shaping the National Education Policy and later held ministerial positions in Electronics and Information Technology and Tourism. His journey from civil servant to political figure underscores his diverse contributions in both administrative and political spheres.

2. Amb. Manoj Kumar Bharti

Designation: Former Ambassador of India to the Republic of Indonesia, Ukraine, Belarus & Timor Leste, Counsel General of India

Dr. Manoj Kumar Bharti is a distinguished diplomat and a luminary figure in international relations. A member of the 1988 Indian Foreign Service (IFS) batch, he boasts an illustrious career with key roles in various nations, including Ambassador to Indonesia, Timor Leste, Ukraine, and Belarus. His leadership in fostering alliances in defense, security, and education, as well as his humanitarian efforts during natural disasters, exemplify his commitment to diplomacy. Dr. Bharti’s academic achievements include a Ph.D. from Zaporizhzhia State Medical University and a Master’s in International Relations from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine. His career stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional diplomatic skills in strengthening India’s global ties.

3. Amb. Amarendra Khatua

Designation: Former Ambassador, India to Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay; Senior Advisor, BRICS CCI

Mr. Amarendra Khatua is a distinguished Indian diplomat and civil servant, belonging to the esteemed Indian Foreign Service (IFS) cadre of 1981. With a multifaceted career spanning decades, he has held pivotal roles within the Ministry of External Affairs and various diplomatic missions worldwide. Notable positions include Director General of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Dean of the Foreign Service Institute, and Secretary (Special Assignment) in the Ministry of External Affairs. His diplomatic assignments include serving as High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Ambassador to Cote D’Ivoire, and Ambassador to Argentina, with significant contributions to peace negotiations and cultural exchange. Mr. Khatua’s career has left a profound impact on Indian diplomacy through his service, dedication, and contributions to various spheres of international engagement.

4. Amb. Manju Seth

Designation: Former Ambassador and Consul General of India to Madagascar and Comoros

Ambassador Manju Seth is a distinguished career diplomat with a remarkable trajectory, serving in key diplomatic postings across the globe, including Hong Kong, Dhaka, Bangkok, and Paris. Her role as Consul General in Reunion Island highlighted her versatility in handling diplomatic responsibilities across diverse regions. As India’s Ambassador to Madagascar and Comoros, she leveraged her extensive experience to strengthen diplomatic ties in the Indian Ocean region. Beyond diplomacy, she actively contributes to academia and women’s empowerment initiatives, serving as an Advisor to organizations like the Organisation for Diaspora Initiatives and Aambra Foundation’s She Speaks Program. Ambassador Seth’s profile blends diplomacy, academia, and literary contributions, reflecting her dedication to international relations, gender empowerment, and global discourse.

5. Dr. Janice Darbari

Designation: Honorary Consul General of Montenegro for India

Dr. Janice Darbari is a dynamic figure, contributing significantly to politics, diplomacy, community service, and cultural preservation. Her independent candidacy in the Lok Sabha elections showcased her commitment to issue-based politics, leading to the implementation of the Bhagidari scheme for Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs). Her diplomatic roles, including the United Nations World Peace Conference and her advocacy for the Assam Accord, exemplify her efforts to foster international relations and preserve cultural heritage, notably in the recognition of Majuli as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

6. Hon’ble Justice Najimi Waziri

Designation: Former Judge, Delhi High Court

Justice Najmi Waziri, a distinguished legal luminary, is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to justice and environmental preservation. With a background in philosophy and a law degree from Delhi University, his illustrious career began in 1987. He became known as the “green judge” for his compassionate verdicts and efforts to protect the environment. Notably, he played a significant role in establishing unique parks in Delhi where residents were directed to plant trees as an act of penance. Elevated to the Delhi High Court in 2013, he continues to be admired for his commitment to social justice and environmental causes, leaving a lasting legacy in both realms.

7. Justice Vikramjit Sen

Designation: Former Judge, Supreme Court of India; Former Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court

Justice Vikramjit Sen, a distinguished legal luminary and former Supreme Court Judge, seamlessly blends profound legal expertise, sports leadership, and international legal commitment. With academic honors from St. Xavier’s High School, Delhi, St. Stephen’s College, and Delhi University’s Faculty of Laws, he excelled academically and athletically, captaining Delhi Law Faculty teams in basketball and tennis.

As a legal expert, he specialized in civil, arbitration, and commercial disputes, earning recognition as Senior Counsel for the Union of India in the Delhi High Court. Transitioning to the judiciary, he served as Chief Justice of the High Court of Karnataka and later as a Supreme Court Judge. Globally, he actively participated in international legal conferences and influential committees, focusing on family law, mediation, international arbitration, and global legal systems. His legacy reflects a deep commitment to international legal reforms, especially in minority rights and amendments to personal laws in India. Beyond law, he contributed as a FIFA Observer, chaired arbitration centers in India and abroad, and held key positions in institutions like the Bombay Stock Exchange.