Karan Pareek, a student of Shri Shivaji Arts and Commerce College, Amravati, won second position in the prestigious Speak For India 2023 Maharashtra Edition.
The grand finale of Speak For India, one of the biggest debate competitions in India was held at Taj Land’s End in Mumbai on Saturday, April 29.
Pareek, a seasoned debater from Maharashtra’s Amravati district, was awarded a cash prize of ₹1.5 lakh along with a trophy and certificate for securing the second position in the war of words.
Speak For India debate competition is a CSR initiative by the Federal Bank of India in association with the Times group. For 2023-23 Maharashtra Edition, over 2000 students participated in the competition from across the state. The winners were chosen after five rigorous rounds of debate on various topics.
“I’m thrilled on winning the Speak For India 2023 debate competition as a runner up. The competition had a long journey and it taught me a lot. During this journey I met youngsters from all walks of life and it helped me gain different perspective towards various serious issues,” said Karan Pareek.
He expressed his humble gratitude towards Federal Bank and Times Group for organising the event on a massive scale.
“I’m sure this experience enhance my ability to strive my personal and professional goals. Platforms like Speak For India provide an opportunity to the youth to express themselves and make their opinions heard,” he added.
The grand finale of the contest was judged by Dr Kirti Agashe, Assistant Chief Secretary IAS Bhushan Gagrani and actor Sonali Kulkarni.
Maharashtra Minister of Skill Development Mangal Prabhat Lodha graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.