First Dr. P. S. Rao Memorial Essay Writing Competition, 2026
- Published On:
- 27 Apr 2026
Department/Unit Name: Centre for International Trade and Business Laws
Submission Deadline: June 30, 2026
The essay writing competition, organized in commemoration of the birth anniversary and the distinguished legacy of Dr. P. S. Rao in advancing international law and global governance, is themed on “Critical Minerals, Digital Economy, and Global Value Chains: Rethinking Trade and Development”. In an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven global economy, critical minerals and digital infrastructures have emerged as pivotal drivers of economic growth, industrial policy, and geopolitical strategy. At the same time, global value chains are undergoing significant transformations in response to shifting trade dynamics, sustainability concerns, and regulatory developments. In honour of Dr. Rao’s distinguished contributions to international law and global governance, this competition seeks to encourage students to critically engage with these evolving intersections of trade, development, and technology, and to explore innovative legal and policy frameworks that can address emerging global challenges. Participants are invited to offer interdisciplinary perspectives that rethink traditional approaches to international trade and development considering contemporary realities.
Sub-Themes
- Trade, Security and the Geopolitics of Critical Minerals
- Deep Sea Mining and the Legal Frontier
- Critical Minerals and the Digital Transition
- Benefiting Developing Countries: Participation, Value Addition and Justice
- Preventing Extractive Injustice: Human Rights, Environment and Accountability
- Critical Minerals and the Green Energy Transition
- International Discourse and India’s Strategic Interests
Note: These sub-themes are not exhaustive, and authors may choose any topic within the ambit of the main theme.
Eligibility
- Undergraduate Law Students enrolled in a 3-year or 5-year LL.B. programme.
- Postgraduate Law Students enrolled in LL.M. or equivalent postgraduate law programmes.
- Students of International Trade, Environment, Natural Resources Policy, and Mineral Governance.
For Competition Protocol, click here:
Awards and Prizes for Competition Winners
- First Place: ₹10,000
- Second Place: ₹7,000
- Third Place: ₹5,000
The winners may be invited to present their research at the upcoming CITBL conference with a fee waiver, subject to the decision of the conference secretariat. Winners may also pursue a virtual internship opportunity with CITBL.
Registration Details
- Single Author Submission: ₹450 per essay
- Co-Authored Submission: ₹700 per essay (limited to two authors)
- The fee is non-refundable and must be submitted at the time of registration.
For the Registration Form