Future Lawyers Gather in Noida as Kiren Rijiju Opens International Moot Court Competition at Asian Law College

Future Lawyers Gather in Noida as Kiren Rijiju Opens International Moot Court Competition at Asian Law College

Noida, India: A courtroom challenge with an international reach began at Asian Law College as Shri Kiren Rijiju, India’s Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, inaugurated the 6th International Moot Court Competition. The two-day event brings together teams from 26 colleges in India and abroad, with 26 lawyers and judges serving as jury members.

Addressing the participants, Shri Rijiju appreciated the initiatives of Dr Sandeep Marwah and Asian Law College and urged aspiring lawyers to build the knowledge, confidence and discipline their profession demands. Drawing on his experience as a lawyer and former Law Minister, he spoke about the opportunities before young people as India’s economy grows.

Shri Rijiju described moot court as an opportunity to move beyond textbooks and put legal reasoning into practice. Preparing a case, presenting an argument, answering questions and responding respectfully to opposing views, he said, help students develop the judgment and advocacy skills they will need in their careers.

Welcoming the Minister and the participating teams, Dr Marwah, President of Asian Education Group and Chancellor of AAFT University of Media & Arts, emphasised the value of learning through experience. He said the competition allows students to test their classroom knowledge while strengthening their research, written submissions and oral advocacy. “Presenting a case before experienced lawyers and judges teaches students to think clearly under pressure, defend their reasoning and respect the legal process,” Dr Marwah said.

The participation of colleges from India and abroad gives the competition a wider exchange of ideas, exposing students to different approaches to legal argument. Throughout the two days, jury members will assess the teams and offer insights informed by their professional experience.

Shri Rijiju also planted a tree on the college campus under the Prime Minister’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, a gesture warmly welcomed by faculty members and students.

During the inaugural ceremony, Dr Marwah presented Shri Rijiju with a copy of his biography, A Global Laureate of Art & Culture, and conferred on him life membership of the International Business and Management Research Centre (IBMRC) of Asian Education Group. The ceremony opened two days in which the next generation of legal professionals will make their case, meet their peers and learn from leading practitioners.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Inaugurates 6th International Moot Court Competition at Asian Law College

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Inaugurates 6th International Moot Court Competition at Asian Law College

Noida, India: Hon’ble Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Government of India, inaugurated the 6th International Moot Court Competition at the Asian Law College campus in Noida. The two-day competition brings together participants from 26 colleges across India and abroad, with 26 lawyers and judges joining as jury members.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Rijiju encouraged young people to develop the knowledge, confidence and discipline needed to make a meaningful contribution to the country. He praised the participating students for taking on the challenge of a moot court competition and spoke about the opportunities available to them as India’s economy continues to grow.

Drawing on his experience as a lawyer and as India’s former Law Minister, Shri Rijiju shared insights from courtrooms and public life. He spoke about the value of exercises that require students to research a case, build an argument, respond to questions and listen carefully to opposing views. Such experiences, he observed, help aspiring lawyers strengthen both their professional skills and their judgment.

Welcoming the Union Minister, Dr Sandeep Marwah, President of Asian Education Group and Chancellor of AAFT University of Media & Arts, said that practical learning has become increasingly important as education in India evolves. Speaking on skill development and changing approaches to education, he emphasised that students benefit when classroom study is paired with opportunities to apply their knowledge.

Dr Marwah said the competition gives future legal professionals a valuable setting in which to practise research, written submissions and oral advocacy. Presenting arguments before experienced lawyers and judges, he added, helps students learn to think clearly under pressure while treating the legal process and differing viewpoints with respect.

The participation of colleges from India and abroad adds an international dimension to the event, allowing students to exchange ideas and learn from different approaches to legal argument. Over the two days, the jury members will bring their professional experience to the proceedings and offer participants the benefit of informed assessment.

Shri Kiren Rijiju also planted a tree on the Asian Law College campus as part of the Prime Minister’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative. Faculty members and students warmly welcomed the gesture, which brought a message of environmental responsibility to the inaugural celebrations.

During the inaugural ceremony, Dr Marwah presented Shri Kiren Rijiju with life membership of the International Business and Management Research Centre (IBMRC) of Asian Education Group. The ceremony marked the opening of two days dedicated to advocacy, learning and engagement among the next generation of legal professionals.

Kiren Rijiju Opens 6th International Moot Court Competition at Asian Law College, Urges Young Lawyers to Aim High

Kiren Rijiju Opens 6th International Moot Court Competition at Asian Law College, Urges Young Lawyers to Aim High

Noida, India: Hon’ble Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Government of India, inaugurated the 6th International Moot Court Competition at Asian Law College, Noida. The two-day competition has brought together teams from 26 colleges across India and abroad, with 26 lawyers and judges serving as jury members.

Addressing the participants, Shri Rijiju urged aspiring lawyers to build their knowledge, confidence and discipline. Drawing on his experience as a lawyer and former Law Minister, he spoke about the demands of legal practice and the opportunities open to young people as India’s economy grows.

He highlighted the value of moot court competitions in preparing students for professional life. Researching a case, presenting a reasoned argument, answering difficult questions and engaging respectfully with opposing views, he observed, help students develop sound judgment alongside advocacy skills.

Welcoming the Union Minister, Dr Sandeep Marwah, President of Asian Education Group and Chancellor of AAFT University of Media & Arts, emphasised the importance of practical learning. He said that students gain confidence when classroom knowledge is tested through experience, and that the competition offers an opportunity to strengthen their research, written submissions and oral advocacy.

“Presenting a case before experienced lawyers and judges teaches students to think clearly under pressure, defend their reasoning and respect the legal process,” Dr Marwah said.

With teams from India and abroad taking part, the competition also provides a platform for students to exchange ideas and encounter different approaches to legal argument. Over the two days, the jury will assess their performances and share insights drawn from professional practice.

As part of the inaugural programme, Shri Rijiju planted a tree on the college campus under the Prime Minister’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative. Faculty members and students welcomed the gesture as a reminder of their shared responsibility towards the environment.

During the ceremony, Dr Marwah presented Shri Rijiju with life membership of the International Business and Management Research Centre (IBMRC) of Asian Education Group. The inauguration marked the start of two days devoted to rigorous debate, practical learning and the development of the next generation of legal professionals.

Dr. L. Murugan Unveils Poster of 2nd CINEKIND Awards at Global Film Festival Noida

Dr. L. Murugan Unveils Poster of 2nd CINEKIND Awards at Global Film Festival Noida

Noida, September 2026: The official poster of the 2nd CINEKIND Awards was unveiled by Dr. L. Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, alongside distinguished dignitaries at the inauguration of the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026. The ceremony took place before a packed audience at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida.

The CINEKIND Awards are an initiative of the Film Federation of India (FFI) and People for Animals (PFA). The awards recognise filmmakers and individuals whose work reflects compassion towards animals. PFA, under the leadership of former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi, has supported the initiative since its inception.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Vice President of FFI, announced that the second edition of the awards ceremony will be held in Mumbai on 4 October 2026, with eleven awards to be presented.

Speaking about CINEKIND, Dr. Marwah said, “Cinema has the power to change how we see and treat the world around us. Through CINEKIND, we want to honour those who use that power to encourage kindness towards animals. Every compassionate story can inspire audiences to act with greater care and respect.”

The poster unveiling was attended by Gaurav Dwivedi, Chief Executive Officer of Prasar Bharati; T. P. Aggarwal, Patron of FFI, IMPPA and ICMEI; Sakshi Mehra, President of the Motion Pictures Association; H.E. Harisoa Lalatiana Accouche, Ambassador of Seychelles; H.E. Abdullah Mohammad A. Abushawesh, Ambassador of Palestine; Commander K. L. Ganju, Honorary Consul General of Comoros; Punjabi singer Jasbir Jassi; and Anita Chandradath of Trinidad and Tobago.

Also present were Festival Director Ashok Tyagi; R. C. Garg, Harinder Singh, G. D. Mehta, Rajindar Singh and Joginder Mahajan of FFI; Vipin Gaur, General Secretary of the Newspapers Association of India; and Walid Hasbi, Counsellor at the Embassy of Morocco. Film, television and media professionals joined creative arts students for the occasion.

Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan inaugurates three-day celebration of cinema, creativity and cultural diplomacy at Marwah Studios

Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan inaugurates three-day celebration of cinema, creativity and cultural diplomacy at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: The 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026 commenced with a spectacular inaugural ceremony at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City, bringing together distinguished leaders from government, cinema, broadcasting, diplomacy, media and the creative industries.

The three-day festival is presented by the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry in association with the International Film and Television Club, with the support of AAFT University.

Dr. L. Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India, formally inaugurated the festival amid an eminent national and international gathering.

The distinguished guests included Gaurav Dwivedi, Chief Executive Officer of Prasar Bharati; T. P. Aggarwal, Patron of the Film Federation of India; Sakshi Mehra, President of the Motion Pictures Association; H.E. Harisoa Lalatiana Accouche, Ambassador of Seychelles; H.E. Abdullah Mohammad A. Abushawesh, Ambassador of Palestine; Commander K. L. Ganju, Honorary Consul General of Comoros; renowned Punjabi singer Jasbir Jassi; Anita Chandradath of Trinidad and Tobago; actor and BJP spokesperson Mukesh Tyagi; and several other prominent personalities from India and abroad.

In his welcome address, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, President of Marwah Studios and Festival President, described the Global Film Festival Noida as much more than a celebration of cinema. He called it an international movement committed to strengthening friendship, cultural understanding and cooperation among nations through the creative arts. “The 19th edition of the Global Film Festival Noida has been designed to bring the world closer through art and culture. We firmly believe in the timeless Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the world is one family. Cinema is among the most influential mediums for spreading love, peace and unity across borders,” said Dr. Marwah.

He announced that 52 thoughtfully curated events would be organised during the three-day festival. The programme includes national and international film screenings, seminars, workshops, exhibitions, book launches, cultural presentations, award ceremonies and interactive sessions featuring leading personalities from the film and media fraternity.

Dr. Marwah emphasised that the festival is committed to taking Indian cinema to international audiences while creating a prestigious platform for global cinema in India.

“The Global Film Festival Noida has established itself as one of the world’s most vibrant academic film festivals. It brings filmmakers, students, diplomats, artists, educators and industry leaders together on a common platform and creates valuable opportunities for learning, networking and international collaboration,” he added.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. L. Murugan highlighted the remarkable expansion of India’s media and entertainment industry and its growing contribution to the national economy. He praised the creativity, passion and entrepreneurial spirit of industry professionals whose collective efforts have strengthened the sector and expanded India’s cultural influence across the world.

The Minister also spoke about the increasing significance of the Orange Economy, which encompasses cinema, broadcasting, animation, visual effects, gaming, digital media, music, design and other creative industries. He noted that technological innovation and emerging platforms are generating unprecedented possibilities for young professionals, content creators and media entrepreneurs.

Referring to the expanding international reach of Indian cinema, Dr. Murugan acknowledged the successful global presentation of Indian stories and the rapidly changing trends in film production, distribution and audience engagement. He encouraged young professionals to embrace innovation while remaining deeply connected to India’s rich cultural heritage.

A major highlight of the inaugural ceremony was the conferment of the prestigious Patronship of the Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman—National Hindi Cinema Samman—upon Dr. L. Murugan. Dr. Sandeep Marwah presented the honour in recognition of the Minister’s distinguished leadership and continued commitment to the promotion of Indian cinema, media and culture.

Dr. Murugan also presented awards, honours and commemorative mementos to distinguished guests in recognition of their valuable contributions to cinema, broadcasting, cultural diplomacy and international cooperation.

The grand opening further strengthened the position of the Global Film Festival Noida as an important international platform for cinematic exchange, professional interaction and creative collaboration.

With the participation of filmmakers, artists, diplomats, media professionals, educators and students from across the world, the festival continues to carry forward its inspiring message of “Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture.”

Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan Inaugurates the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026 at Marwah Studios

Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan Inaugurates the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026 at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: The 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026 opened on a magnificent note at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City, bringing together eminent representatives from government, cinema, broadcasting, diplomacy, media and the creative industries presented by International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry in association with International Film and Television Club supported by AAFT University.

The festival was formally inaugurated by Dr. L. Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India, in the presence of a distinguished international gathering.

Prominent dignitaries attending the grand opening included Gaurav Dwivedi, Chief Executive Officer of Prasar Bharati; T. P. Aggarwal, Patron of the Film Federation of India; Sakshi Mehra, President of the Motion Pictures Association; H.E. Harisoa Lalatiana Accouche, Ambassador of Seychelles; H.E. Abdullah Mohammad A. Abushawesh, Ambassador of Palestine; Commander K. L. Ganju, Honorary Consul General of Comoros; renowned Punjabi singer Jasbir Jassi; Anita Chandradath of Trinidad and Tobago; actor and BJP spokesperson Mukesh Tyagi; and several other eminent personalities from India and abroad.

Welcoming the guests, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, President of Marwah Studios and Festival President, described the Global Film Festival Noida as an international movement dedicated to strengthening friendship, cultural understanding and cooperation among nations through cinema. “The 19th edition of the Global Film Festival Noida has been designed to bring the entire world closer through art and culture. We firmly believe in the timeless Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the world is one family. Cinema is one of the most powerful instruments for promoting love, peace and unity across borders,” said Dr. Marwah.

He announced that 52 carefully curated events had been planned during the three-day festival, including national and international film screenings, seminars, workshops, exhibitions, book launches, cultural presentations, award ceremonies and interactive sessions with leading members of the film and media fraternity.

Dr. Marwah further stated that the festival seeks to promote Indian cinema internationally while simultaneously providing a prestigious platform for global cinema in India. “The Global Film Festival Noida has earned recognition as one of the world’s most vibrant academic film festivals. It connects filmmakers, students, diplomats, artists, educators and industry leaders on a common platform while creating meaningful opportunities for learning, networking and international collaboration,” he added.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. L. Murugan spoke extensively about the extraordinary growth of India’s media and entertainment industry and its increasing contribution to the country’s economy. He appreciated the passion, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of professionals whose collective efforts have strengthened the sector and enhanced India’s cultural influence worldwide.

The Minister highlighted the growing importance of the Orange Economy, which encompasses cinema, broadcasting, animation, visual effects, gaming, digital media, music, design and other creative industries. He observed that technological innovation and emerging platforms are opening unprecedented opportunities for young talent, content creators and media entrepreneurs.

Dr. Murugan also referred to the expanding global reach of Indian cinema, the successful international projection of Indian stories and the new trends transforming film production, distribution and audience engagement. He encouraged young professionals to embrace innovation while remaining connected to India’s rich cultural heritage.

A special highlight of the inaugural ceremony was the conferment of the prestigious Patronship of the Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman—National Hindi Cinema Samman upon Dr. L. Murugan. Dr. Sandeep Marwah presented the honour in recognition of the Minister’s distinguished leadership and commitment to the promotion of Indian cinema, media and culture.

Dr. Murugan subsequently presented awards, honours and commemorative mementos to distinguished guests for their contributions to cinema, broadcasting, cultural diplomacy and international cooperation.

The grand inauguration reaffirmed the Global Film Festival Noida’s position as a significant international platform for cinematic exchange and creative collaboration. With participation from filmmakers, artists, diplomats, media professionals and students from across the world, the festival continues to advance its powerful message of “Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture.”

Sandeep Marwah Appreciated for Eight Years of Service to Indo-Iceland Cultural Relations

Sandeep Marwah Appreciated for Eight Years of Service to Indo-Iceland Cultural Relations

New Delhi: Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), was appreciated for his eight years of dedicated service as Chair of the Indo-Iceland Film and Cultural Forum.

The Forum was established in 2018 under the patronage of the then Ambassador of Iceland to India, H.E. Thorir Ibsen, with the objective of strengthening cultural relations between India and Iceland through cinema, media, education, art and cultural exchange. Dr. Marwah was nominated as its Chair at the time of its creation.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said, “It has been a great honour to serve the Indo-Iceland Film and Cultural Forum for the past eight years. Iceland has been a valued partner in almost every major international event organised by ICMEI and Marwah Studios.”

He highlighted Iceland’s association with prestigious programmes including the Global Film Festival Noida, Global Festival of Journalism Noida, Global Fashion Week Noida, Global Literary Festival Noida, International Festival of Documentary Films, International Festival of Cellphone Cinema and the AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films.

“These sustained associations have brought the people of India and Iceland closer through creative interaction and cultural diplomacy. We look forward to expanding our cooperation through film screenings, educational exchanges, joint productions, cultural delegations and tourism promotion,” Dr. Marwah added.

H.E. Benedikt Höskuldsson, Ambassador of Iceland to India, appreciated the consistent contribution of Dr. Sandeep Marwah towards promoting Iceland in India through the activities of the Forum.

“Dr. Sandeep Marwah’s commitment and eight years of continuous service have contributed significantly to strengthening cultural understanding between Iceland and India. The Indo-Iceland Film and Cultural Forum provides a valuable platform for developing greater cooperation in cinema, arts, education and culture,” said H.E. Benedikt Höskuldsson.

The Indo-Iceland Film and Cultural Forum operates under ICMEI and continues to promote friendship, creative collaboration and people-to-people relations between the two nations.