Shimla
The Centre for Alternate Dispute Resolution and Professional Skills (CADR&PS) of Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla, under the aegis of Prof. (Dr.) Priti Saxena, Vice Chancellor, HPNLU, proudly announces the successful hosting and completion of the “Samanvay 2.0” International Mediation Competition 2024. This prestigious event marks the second edition of our flagship initiative, aimed at promoting the culture of mediation in accordance with the Mediation Act, 2023. The event was hosted in the august present of the Chief Guest Hon’ble Justice C. B. Barowalia, Lokayuta of H.P., Guest of Honour Mr. Mohammad Ussama, Mediator, Egypt. The competition saw participation from a diverse array of 33 teams, including esteemed National Law Universities, law colleges across India, and international teams from APIIT, Colombo, and the National University of Singapore. The Best Negotiating pair award was bagged by West Bengal National University for Juridical Sciences, and the Best Mediator award by Government Law College, Mumbai.
The competition commenced with a warm welcome from our esteemed Vice Chancellor, who addressed the participants, esteemed assessors, the Guest of Honour and the Chief Guest. In her remarks, she elucidated the significance of the term “Samanvay” within the context of the fraternity enshrined in the Constitution of India. She extended heartfelt congratulations to the CADR&PS team for elevating the competition to an international platform and encouraged the collective efforts of the CADR&PS team in conducting this exemplary event.
Since its inception, HPNLU has been dedicated to fostering a robust culture of mediation among its students. The establishment of the CADR&PS further articulates this commitment, empowering students to actively engage in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) competitions across the nation. Our students have consistently demonstrated enthusiasm and excellence, amassing numerous accolades that underscore the university’s reputation in the field of mediation.
Our esteemed Guest of Honour, Mohammad Ussama, delivered an insightful discourse on the nuances of mediation, emphasizing its far-reaching impact beyond the immediate parties involved. Drawing from his extensive experience as a mediator, he highlighted the importance of empathetic and active listening in facilitating effective resolutions.
The Chief Guest, Hon’ble Justice C. B. Barowalia, Lokayuta of H.P., in his address highlighted the task of a mediator being a catalyst in mediation and the role of the process in amicable and WIN-WIN resolution of disputes. He also stated that the reason why mediation is the most widely used mechanism of alternate dispute resolution is as both parties are in a win win position post the settlement via mediation.
The Samanvay 2.0 competition featured a distinguished panel of assessors comprising prominent figures from the international mediation community. This year’s panel included Associates, Senior Associates, and Partners from leading organizations such as SAM, CAMP, Hammurabi & Solomon Partners, and PACT.
In closing, a heartfelt vote of thanks was delivered by esteemed Registrar, Prof. (Dr.) S.S. Jaswal, who expressed profound gratitude to our honorable guests for their invaluable presence and collaboration in making this event a resounding success.
