The annual Doon School Model United Nations conference began here on Saturday and its chief guest was Rajya Sabha MP Pavan Varma. The ceremony was attended by principal Matthew Ragget, Philip Burret, PK Nair, P Malaviya and Mohit Sinha.
Varma, a distinguished former-IFS officer, enlightened the audience with his comments on the foreign affairs of India, and experience he gained during his career. Over 450 student delegates from 45 schools across India and abroad are participating in the conference, making it the biggest such event ever held at the school.
The day began with the Plenary session which followed the arrival of delegates. The Secretary-General of the Conference, Ishaan Kapoor, warmly welcomed all participants and guests in addition to introducing the committee Chairpersons.
Following this, all delegates were escorted to their committee chambers where they promptly began discussions on their topics. The day saw a wide variety of motions being raised for debate, ranging from the ongoing dispute in the South China Sea to human rights violations in the Middle East. On the whole, delegates appeared comfortable while participating in these debates despite the numerous challenges posed to them.
Owing to evening showers, the audience was provided with an entertaining performance by the host school as they awaited dinner.
The delegates ate in a light-hearted atmosphere and retired for the night, with plans to prepare for more sessions the following day, where their knowledge, skill at lobbying and overall diplomatic acumen will be further tested to its greatest limits.