C3S 17th Anniversary: Director General's Message

Greetings and good wishes on our 17th Anniversary of C3S!

A great pleasure to wish our readers, well wishers, supporters, young minds, distinguished members of C3S and China observers!

Over the past one and a half decades, sustained efforts have ensured that China observers, policymakers, and other stakeholders receive high-quality inputs based on rigorous research and analysis conducted by dedicated teams under the guidance of senior members of the only think tank outside Delhi with a specific focus on China related issues. This recognition would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our diverse membership and the relentless commitment of our young research team. The activities in the last 17 years have consistently demonstrated innovation, relevance, and focus. Several new initiatives were launched over the years, emphasizing youth empowerment and enhancing outreach efforts to engage China observers effectively.

In the financial year 2024-25, the Chennai Centre for China Studies (C3S) successfully organized 14 events, including a national and an international conference. The year witnessed several significant national and international conferences, notably a national conference on the Indo-Pacific with REVA University and an international conference on ASEAN-India relations with Christ (Deemed to be) University held in 2025. 

Other key events included the Founders’ Memorial Lecture in August 2024, delivered by Mr. M.R. Sivaraman, addressing the Indian and Chinese economies. Additionally, in collaboration with Manipal Academy of Higher Education, C3S hosted its first two-day workshop on Chinese influence operations. 

Among our key initiatives, the Young Minds of C3S has emerged as a dynamic forum comprising over 280 members who benefit from daily updates on China-related issues through a digital platform, fostering insightful discussions. Our internship program continues to be a resounding success, with over 125 interns from prestigious universities and institutions across India and abroad. These interns refine their research skills through multiple drafts, guided by subject experts till their final publications, making valuable contributions to the field. Today, they serve as brand ambassadors for C3S, carrying forward our mission of youth empowerment. Additionally, C3S, in collaboration with organizations such as ORCA, has conducted several insightful webinars.

Since 2018, C3S has consistently ranked among the top global think tanks, as recognized by the Think Tank and Civil Societies Program (TTCSP) under the University of Pennsylvania. In 2020, C3S was ranked the leading independent think tank by TTCSP. Although TTCSP’s ranking system was later suspended following the passing of its founder, Professor James McGann, C3S continues to receive global recognition for its research contributions.

I extend my sincere gratitude to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for its steadfast support in enhancing the performance of the think tank specializing in China studies by regular reviews and interactions.

The greatest strength of C3S lies in its 30 distinguished senior members, who have provided unwavering intellectual, moral, and material support since its inception in 2008. Their mentorship has been instrumental in guiding our research team and ensuring the highest standards of productivity.

The establishment of the Governing Council, Academic Council, and Executive Council has streamlined operations through a framework of shared and collective responsibility. C3S's structured approach to China studies, spanning six verticals—Geo-politics & Strategy, Defense & Security, Science & Technology, Business & Economics, Party Politics & Society, and Culture & Soft Power—has enabled a more focused and comprehensive analysis. Additionally, our social outreach initiatives, including the fortnightly China Watch and Postcards, have surpassed 300 editions, reaching a global audience. Our innovative video content has further expanded our outreach, with our subscriber base growing exponentially.

I extend my deepest appreciation to our young research team for their creativity, commitment, and dedication in maintaining C3S’s momentum. Personally, having led this institution for over a decade, I can attest to the immense challenges and equally rewarding experiences this journey has brought. As the road ahead presents new milestones to achieve, I am confident that our demonstrated expertise, core strengths, and dedicated human resources will continue to enhance our understanding of China-related issues, shaping India’s internal and external policy dimensions. As two great civilizations, India and China must invest in sustained efforts to understand each other better and address mutual concerns amicably. This can be achieved through constructive engagements between think tanks in both nations.

On this significant occasion, we at C3S reaffirm our commitment to fostering a nuanced understanding of India-China relations through in-depth research and rigorous analysis. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our distinguished members, well-wishers, and supporters for their unwavering encouragement over the years. Their continued support remains instrumental in driving our mission forward.

It is my great honor and privilege to extend my warmest wishes to all associated with C3S on our 16th anniversary. May this milestone be a harbinger of greater success and glory in the years ahead.

Jai Hind!