11th of September, 2006 marked the Centenary of the Satyagraha movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi in South Africa for the peaceful resistance against discriminatory and unjust laws. It became a powerful mass movement of passive resistance and civil disobedience. Over the years, it converted from a platform of passive idealism to effective action.

To acknowledge the historical contribution made by Gandhi and the values espoused by him, the Indian National Congress has undertaken steps to commemorate the centenary in a befitting manner. This will also be an occasion to renew the commitment of our people to his noble mission of building a world that is in peace and harmony with itself.

The ‘Indian National Congress’ will be convening an International Conference in New Delhi on 29-30th January 2007 as a major event in the commemorative programme.

The Indian National Congress is inviting eminent world leaders, Nobel laureates, representative delegations from the major political parties from all regions of the world, and leading civil society organizations working for peace and human rights t attend the conference.

Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Hon. Congress President, and Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, will address the Conference.

The Conference will be structured around four papers / presentations by eminent scholars and Gandihians. Proposed subjects are :

The Conference will conclude with a “Satyagraha Centenary Declaration” which will convey a unique message of global significance. This Conference, will also underscore the continuing relevance of Gandhian ideals in the Contemporary 21st century world in the backdrop of conflict and violence that prevails in the world today.