The Power of Negotiation: R.K. Rastogi Memorial National Negotiation Competition Kicks Off at VGU
Jaipur, 28th September –Negotiation isn't just a skill; it's a way of life. And if you were in Jaipur this weekend, you'd have witnessed that in full force as Vivekananda Global University, the only NAAC A-graded institution in Rajasthan, hosted the second edition of the prestigious R.K. Rastogi Memorial National Negotiation Competition.
This confluence was not just one more event on the academic calendar but an interface of minds, ideas, and strategies. True to form, the program started with the address of Hon'ble Justice Augustine George Masih of the Supreme Court of India, the chief guest. Justice Masih launched straight into the heart of the matter and outlined how negotiation could resolve modern-day disputes-from family squabbles to professional out-of-the-court settlements. With a hint of urgency in his voice, he reminded one and all of rising divorce cases, domestic violence, and other issues. He also drew a parallel between Lord Krishna's mediation efforts in the Mahabharata and the potency of negotiation today in averting crises.
His message was simple and profound: negotiation is far more than a legal tool. It's a lifeline that helps ease personal and professional tensions, and finding a middle ground can make all the difference.
Adding to the conversation, another member of the Supreme Court, Hon'ble Justice Ajay Rastogi, touched on the essence of generosity in public service. He reminded one and all that negotiation, though not the glamour face of litigation before the courts of law, is a pre-litigation power move that can settle disputes even before the litigations can make their ways into the courtroom. It's charity in its purest form-offering someone a way out, without the stress and costs of prolonged litigation.
Justice Ajay Rastogi continued to highlight that even the essence of carrying out any charity with compassion may be the effecting change that could bring solace. The audience was moved when he spoke to them about how negotiation is not about finding a solution but is about humanity and understanding.
Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava from the Rajasthan High Court maintained the tempo; he encouraged the students by pointing out the importance of hard work. There are no shortcuts, as he said, in the line of law, and the experiences learned through it form the foundational learning of the next generation of legal professionals. It is a rallying call to students to draw inspiration from the greats to keep learning day in and day out.
Meanwhile, Justice Avnish Jhingan espoused negotiation and dialogue in legal systems. In an increasingly busy world of court cases, a frank reminder from Justice Jhingan was that negotiation saves time and costs, two of the most valuable resources in any case.
More Than Just a Competition
At the core was this simple concept: help find a resolution outside the courtroom. The same was reiterated by VGU Vice Chairman Dr. K.R. Bagaria: "It has been a tradition in India that there had hardly been a requirement to enter the courtroom for resolving disputes." Though it is something we are seeing disappear in cities, this would help in keeping the judiciary decongested.
But the competition wasn't just about ideals. It was a place where students could put their skills to the test. Additional Solicitor General of India, Mr. R.D. Rastogi told the budding judges and advocates that during the two-day event, they would argue cases, present their arguments, and develop their persuasive communication skills. For students participating, the event was an occasion for firsthand feelings of tension, excitement, and then satisfaction from knowing and mastering the science of negotiation.
K. Ram, Chief Patron at VGU and a retired IPS officer, perhaps summed it up best when he termed the event an 'incredible opportunity' for the students to have their legal minds whetted. He counseled them to focus on the clarity and brevity of arguments—a skill all lawyers in the making must acquire.
Legal Legends, Valuable Lessons
VGU's Chancellor, Dr. Lalit K. Pawar couldn't have been prouder. He said that with such legal luminaries present, the event becomes worth remembering. Drawing an analogy with Harvard's negotiation courses, he mentioned how imperative negotiation is, especially for those fresh into the legal world.
The next round of excitement came from VGU CEO Mr. Onkar Bagaria as he felt proud of the event, terming it a platform where students not only test their legal prowess but also share fresh perspectives.
Finally, as Professor Santosh Kumar, officiating president of the university, welcomed with much enthusiasm all those present at the venue, he reminded everybody of one thing: negotiation isn't just for lawyers. It is an essential skill that each professional needs; especially policymakers and implementers require it more.
Dr. Shilpa Rao Rastogi, Head of the Law Department oiled the cake when she announced the total prize money-₹ 50,000. So, the stakes were high with the winning team receiving ₹25,000*, runners-up ₹15,000*, and the best negotiator ₹10,000*, yet so was the enthusiasm.
A New Generation of Negotiators
As the event unfolded, it became clear that the R.K. Rastogi Memorial National Negotiation Competition was not just a competition but a launch pad for future legal eagles. Negotiation is a life skill, and these students learn early how to wield it.
This competition isn't shaping only the next generation of lawyers but also helping mold more effective, empathetic, and solution-driven professionals.