Also, the conference aimed to provide a platform to leading NGOs to put forth their point of view and network, liaison and collaborate, and promote social entrepreneurship among students. The key takeaway from day one was the thought expressed by Dr Vijay Mahajan, that Social Entrepreneurs are those who satisfy the needs of society, which are neither addressed by the state nor the markets, done in a business-like manner.
The conference was inaugurated by Ms Sushmita Ghosh, President Emeritus, Ashoka Innovators for the Public. Sessions were held on topics like aProviding Access to Credit/Financial Servicesa, and aProviding Access to Healthcare and Hygienea. Speakers at the event included, CV Madhukar, Co-founder, Akshara Foundation & Founder, PRS Legislative Research; S Giridhar, Head a Advocacy & Research, Azim Premji Foundation; Pravin Mahajan, Founder and ED, Janarth; Chethna Sinha, Founder & Director, Mann Deshi Mahila Sahakari Bank; Samit Ghosh, CEO, Ujjvan; Vijay Mahajan, Founder & CEO, BASIX; Joe Madiath, Founder & ED, Gram Vikas; Keerthi Pradhan, Head of Programs a India, Right to Sight; and Venkat Changavalli, CEO, EMRI.