‘The objective of an economist in Indian perspective should be to have the ability to blend economic sustenance with spiritual advancements; were the enlightening thoughts shared by Dr. Subramanium Swamy, Chief Guest, at the Megafest “Artha’ organised by School of Economics, SMVD University. Dr. Swamy ; a well-known economist and member of Rajya Sabha, addressed the gathering of young students and faculty members of SMVD University, in the valedictory function of ‘Artha.’ Impressed with the serenity and modern infrastructure of the University, Dr, Swamy said that he would be willing to take up teaching again in such University. While speaking on the topic ‘why one must learn economics’, he said that the economics has transformed and now it is a science that would help in shaping the world, with a perspective. One must know economics in holistic way and use it for the development. Dr. Swamy said that each country and region have their comparative advantages and hence an economist must look into the resource competences and address the solutions with micro as well as macro perspectives. Hence an economist must be able to distinguish clearly between micro and macro aspects of economics. Dr. Swamy emphasized upon the core of Indian ethos and culture. He said that the prime objective of the Indian development is attaining happiness; not only profit maximisation or production approach. The young shaping economists, must keep the social context and the objective of creating happiness at the core of materialistic development. More materialism leads to more greed and hence more corruption. Dr. Swamy while addressing the young minds, emphasised upon the power of women in the society. He said that the women in Indian society have always been given highest importance and that has paved the way for peace and development.

Before the lecture, Dr. Sanjeev Jain, Vice Chancellor, SMVD University, welcomed the Chief Guest, Dr. Subraminiam Swamy, and congratulated the students of School of Economics for the mega event. He said that learning is the bank of understanding and the SMVD University provides an avenue for the learning and overall development of the students. Prof. D. Mukhopadhay, Dean, Faculty of Management, welcomed the esteemed guest and said that the academic environment in SMVD University provides for a wholesome development of the students. The occasion was graced by, Prof. V.K. Bhat, Registrar, Dr. Yugal Khajuria, Dean of Students, Dr. Pabitra Jena, i/c Head, School of Economics, faculty staff and students of SMVDu and other schools and colleges from across India. The event Artha was a mega fest organised by the students of School of Economics in SMVD University, from 16-18 February 2018.

The event ‘Artha’ witnessed various competitive and knowledge gaining events such as future Chanakya, Quizonomics, Ecoscrap etc. The event was participated by the students of various schools and colleges across India. The festival was proceeded by the award giving ceremony. SPMR college and APS bagged first position in Furture Chanakya. Students from SPMR College and SPMR School won first prize in Quiizonomics and Rock-O-Nomics, while GCW Udhampur won first prize in Shipwreck, KC Public School and APS Sain Xaviers, KV-1, were winners in Delve through the lens of Nature. Prof. D. Mukhopadhaya, Dean faculty of Management, distributed the prizes and encouraged students for their enthusiastic participation. The event Artha was ornamented by a vivacious cultural night to supplement the festival in more rampant manner. The successful organisation of the event motivated the students.