INAUGURATION OF AMARTYA- THE ECONOMICS ASSOCIATION, 2020

Amartya- The Economics Association of CHRIST (Deemed to Be University) is a vibrant and dynamic forum for students pursuing economics, and empowers them to explore economics beyond the classroom syllabus. Amartya endeavours to be an inclusive economics community on the campus and realise the vision of the Department of Economics: “Achieving excellence, broadening horizons, building competencies, and developing a sustainable education model through critical thinking, ethical groundedness, and commitment to society.”

Eva Mondal was the Master of Ceremonies for the online inauguration. Starting with the quote, “ Tough times don’t last, but tough people do,” she illustrated the need to stay strong and resilient in these very difficult and challenging times. Next, to invoke the presence of the almighty, Supreetha Krishna regaled attendees with her mellifluous voice and resounding notes.

Dr. Rittu Susan Varkey, the faculty coordinator of Amartya, extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest of the function- Dr. Anjan Kumar Chakrabartifrom the University of Calcutta, Dr Joshy K J, Head of the Department of Economics, all other faculty members, and the students of Economics.

Dr. Anjan Kumar Chakrabartiis a distinguished professor at the University of Calcutta with numerous acclaimed publications to his credit. His researchinterest lies in the areas of Marxian Economics and Political Economy. He provided rich insights into the Indian Economic Outlook on COVID-19.

This was followed by Dr.Joshy KJ, Head of the Department of Economics officially inducted the office bearers of Amartya 2020-2021. He also noted that with the inexorable march of technology and development in the 21st century, nobody could have predicted the unprecedented havoc a tiny virus- SARS-CoV-2 would wreak. The online inauguration was a momentous occasion for the department since it marked the first time in history, online collaboration and inauguration. Dr.Joshy also urged students to keep up their spirits and continue to work diligently and passionately for their endeavours. He also introduced Dr. Rittu Susan Varkey, the Faculty coordinator of Amartya, Dr. Adaina K.C, the faculty in-charge for Ephemeris, and Dr. Mahesh E, the Placement Co-ordinator.

The office-bearers of Amarta, the Economics Association, 2020-21 are:

•  President:  Aditi Jha ( II MA Applied Economics)
•  Vice-President: Aneeta Ann George (I MA Applied Economics)
•  General Secretary: Monce M Chakkalackal (III EPS)
• Treasurer-: Vemula Venkata Padma Likhitha (II MA Applied Economics)
•  Editor of Ephemeris: Shireen Bangera ( II MA Applied Economics)  Sub-editor: Rishav Saha, I MA Applied Economics, and the Editorial Team: Niyanta Desai ( III EPS),  Aparna Preethan (III PSEco), Sathyajit M.S (III HEP), and Mohammad Atif Haidry ( III EMS)
• PG Placement Student Co-ordinator: Srishti RV Singh ( II MA Applied Economics)
• UG Placement Student Co-ordinator: Rishvanth Reddy ( III EPS)

The President of Amartya, Ms Aditi Jha succinctly briefed everyone about the various wings of Amartya, and the exciting and activities and events planned by the Association for the academic year 2020-21. These include Altius- The national level undergraduate economics fest which enjoys laudable success, and tremendous participation annually, The Young Economist Competition: A stimulating platform for undergraduate students of economics for paper presentation which has invited bright minds from across the country, and many more. She also underscored her core commitment to the Association and pledged to serve in her office, with utmost sincerity and dedication.

Dr. Joshy KJ officially released the Department’s magazine, Ephemeris, published quarterly. Ephemeris provides students with a platform to put forth their ideas on current issues and share their perspectives through an economics lens. The second issue of Ephemeris 2020 delves into rich multi-faceted insights into the Indian Economic Outlook on COVID-19. Ms. Shireen Bangera, the Editor of Ephemeris expressed her gratitude to the Editorial Team and promised a thrilling and riveting read to all.

Dr. Justin Joy proposed the vote of thanks and congratulated all the office-bearers. Dr Rittu Susan Varkey expressed appreciation to participants for their rapt attention. The Master of Ceremonies wished everyone a lovely day, which concluded the smooth conduct of the Inauguration of Amartya, 2020-21.