Jabalpur, March 3, 2025: In a significant move to enhance research and academic collaboration in the field of International Trade Law and Policy, Dharmashastra National Law University (DNLU), Jabalpur, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre for WTO Studies (CWS), Centre for Research in International Trade (CRIT) under the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), New Delhi. The IIFT operates as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
Key Objectives of the Collaboration
The partnership between DNLU and CWS is aimed at:
- Joint Academic Initiatives: Facilitating collaborative research projects and policy analysis in trade law.
- Capacity Building Programs: Organizing training workshops, certificate courses, and professional development opportunities.
- Enhancing Legal Scholarship: Promoting research through publications and symposiums.
- Building a Knowledge Ecosystem: Engaging with national and international institutions to support academic growth.
Bridging Academia and Practice
The collaboration leverages DNLU’s Centre for Studies in International Trade and Investment Law (CITIL) and CWS’s expertise in WTO negotiations and trade policy. This alliance is expected to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical trade law applications, contributing significantly to India’s global trade discourse.
Execution of the MoU
The MoU was signed by Prof. Manoj Kumar Sinha, Vice Chancellor of DNLU, and Dr. Pritam Banerjee, Head and Professor at CWS. The signing ceremony was also attended by Mr. Utkarsh K. Mishra, Director of CITIL and Assistant Professor of Contract Law at DNLU, and Dr. Amit Randev, Consultant (Legal) at CWS.
Mr. Utkarsh and Dr. Amit, appointed as nodal officers for this collaboration, played pivotal roles in spearheading the initiative. Special acknowledgment was given to Prof. Murali Kallummal from CWS for his motivation and support in bringing this partnership to fruition.
A Promising Opportunity for Legal Scholars
This partnership is set to create numerous opportunities for students and legal researchers across India, opening doors to advanced studies and practical experiences in international trade law and policy. Through this collaboration, DNLU and CWS aim to contribute to the legal and trade policy landscape, fostering a new generation of skilled professionals in the field.
