Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla, under the leadership of Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Priti Saxena, successfully hosted the 3rd Samanvay International Mediation Competition (SIMC) 2025 from September 18—20 and October 13—15, 2025. The prestigious event, organised by the Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) Cell of the University, witnessed participation from 33 premier law institutions, including National Law Universities and international participants such as the National University of Singapore. The competition was conducted in hybrid mode, culminating in offline quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals held at the HPNLU campus, Shimla.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Priti Saxena, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, along with eminent guests and mediation professionals. The event aimed to promote the ethos of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) among law students and to develop their advocacy, negotiation, and problem-solving skills beyond conventional litigation practices.
A special training session on October 13, 2025, was conducted by Ms. Divya Rao (Founder, JurisGyan) and Mr. Aditya Aryan (PACT), providing participants with insights into mediation strategies and ethical communication in negotiation. Following this, the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds took place on October 14, 2025, showcasing exemplary performances by participating teams, while the final rounds and valedictory ceremony were held on October 15, 2025.
The final round was adjudged by a distinguished panel comprising Mr. Corrado Mora (International Mediator & ADR Consultant), Mr. Ruwan Wathukarage (Sydney-based Commercial Barrister and Mediator), Mrs. Priyanka Khenal (Mediator, DCDRC Shimla), Mr. Surender Gill (Senior Advocate, Corporate and Banking Law), and Dr. Santosh Kumar Sharma (Dean of Academic Affairs, HPNLU Shimla).
The valedictory ceremony was graced by Hon’ble Mr. Justice C. B. Barowalia, Lokayukta, Himachal Pradesh and Chairman, HP State Human Rights Commission, as the Chief Guest. Shri Hamender Singh Chandel, President, HP High Court Bar Association, was the Special Guest, and Mr. Ruwan Wathukarage served as the Guest of Honour. The dignitaries emphasized the relevance of mediation as a tool for promoting peace and justice, describing it as a “form of meditation” and a “win-win process” that restores dialogue and understanding between disputing parties.
Awards were conferred to recognize outstanding performances:
-
Best Mediator (Winner): Jindal Global Law School, Sonipat
-
Best Negotiating Pair (Winners): Hidayatullah National Law University, Raipur
-
Runner-Up Mediator: University Institute of Legal Studies, Panjab University
-
Runner-Up Negotiating Pair & Best Mediator (Preliminary Rounds): Maharashtra National Law University, Mumbai
-
Best Mediation Plan: Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab
-
Best Negotiating Pair (Preliminary Rounds): National Law University, Jodhpur
The event received sponsorship and institutional support from JurisGyan, SCC Online, SCC Times, A5 Legal, PACT, Indian Dispute Resolution Centre, PSL Advocates & Solicitors, and Nishith Desai Associates, among others.
Delivering the event report, Dr. Ruchi Gupta, Faculty Coordinator, ADR Cell, highlighted the growing stature of SIMC as a premier mediation competition in India. Prof. (Dr.) Alok Kumar, Registrar, HPNLU, extended a formal Vote of Thanks to all dignitaries, sponsors, and participants.
The 3rd Samanvay International Mediation Competition (SIMC) 2025 reaffirmed HPNLU Shimla’s unwavering commitment to advancing the cause of Alternative Dispute Resolution and nurturing the next generation of legal professionals equipped with the skills of dialogue, empathy, and collaboration.