Inaugural Session:
Dr. V.K Saraswat
Shri. Arun Chowgule

The inaugural session was a focal point for deliberations on the sustainable use of oceanic resources. Government officials, industry leaders, and experts in maritime sectors converged to discuss policies, collaborative initiatives, and technological advancements crucial for fostering a thriving blue economy. Conversations revolved around sustainable fisheries, renewable energy from oceans, marine conservation, and strategies to harness the potential of oceans for economic growth while ensuring environmental stewardship. The discussion emphasized the need for concerted efforts between government bodies and industries to unlock the immense potential of the blue economy while preserving marine ecosystems.

Summary of the Blue Economy Conclave:

The Blue Economy Conclave convened as a multifaceted forum, hosting a series of illuminating panel discussions that delved deeply into the multifaceted realm of oceanic sustainability and economic potential. Across various sessions, the Conclave explored nuanced topics, including geopolitics, innovation, climate change, and the alignment of blue economy initiatives with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Renowned experts, policymakers, environmentalists, and industry leaders congregated to dissect the complexities surrounding the blue economy. These discussions revolved around deciphering the geopolitical landscape concerning maritime resources, showcasing innovative solutions for real-world oceanic challenges, and analyzing the intersection between climate change and sustainable development in coastal regions.
By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the Conclave underscored the imperative of adopting sustainable practices, leveraging technological advancements, and forging international partnerships to harness the vast potential of ocean resources. Emphasizing the urgent need to address climate change's impact on marine ecosystems, the event aimed to chart a path toward a resilient, environmentally conscious blue economy that aligns with broader sustainable development objectives, ensuring a prosperous and harmonious future for coastal regions worldwide.


Blue Economy Conclave

Session Expert:
IPS Mrinalini Shrivastava
Prof. Piyush Girgaonkar
Dr. Swati Sahasrabuddhe
Prof. Anugrah nagiach

Short Brief: The panel discussion on "Blue Economy: Climate Change & SDGs" during the Blue Economy Conclave served as a critical forum to address the intersection of oceanic sustainability, climate change, and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Esteemed experts, environmentalists, and policymakers deliberated on the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems and the role of the blue economy in achieving SDGs related to oceans. Discussions revolved around adaptation strategies, resilience building, ocean conservation, and the imperative of aligning blue economy initiatives with SDGs for a more sustainable and resilient future. The panel emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change's effects on oceans while highlighting the integral role of the blue economy in achieving broader sustainable development objectives.


Blue economy : Climate Change & SDGs

Session Expert:
Dr. Sateesh Shenoi
Dr. Sergio Faias
Mr. Shridhar Prabhuraman
Mr. S. VIgnesh

Session Brief:  
The panel discussion on "Blue Economy: Innovation & Real-World Problem Solving" was a pivotal segment of the Blue Economy Conclave, focusing on innovative solutions for addressing challenges in oceanic sustainability. Leading innovators, entrepreneurs, and experts converged to discuss groundbreaking technologies and methodologies aimed at solving real-world problems within the blue economy. Conversations centered on advancements in marine research, technology-driven solutions for pollution, sustainable fishing practices, and novel approaches for harnessing renewable energy from the oceans. The panel underscored the pivotal role of innovation in tackling pressing issues, highlighting how creative problem-solving can drive sustainable growth and conservation efforts within the blue economy.


Blue economy : Innovation & Real world problem solving

Session Experts:
Amb. Anup Mudgal
Dr.Shabana Barua
Shri. Praful Talera
Ms.Divya Rai

The panel discussion on "Blue Economy: Geopolitics and Local Aspirations" was an important component of the Blue Economy Conclave, exploring the intersection of global geopolitical dynamics and local ambitions regarding oceanic resources. Experts, diplomats, and stakeholders deliberated on how geopolitical considerations influence the utilization and management of maritime resources while aligning with local aspirations for sustainable development. Discussions revolved around geopolitical tensions, international cooperation frameworks, maritime security, and the balance between national interests and global partnerships in harnessing the blue economy. The panel stressed the need for collaborative approaches that address both geopolitical challenges and local aspirations to foster a sustainable and equitable blue economy.


Blue economy : Geopolitics and Local Aspiration

Prof. Dr. .Ramesh Ramchandran

Session Brief: The keynote address on "Sustainable Coastal Management & Blue Economy of India" served as a cornerstone of the Blue Economy Conclave, providing crucial insights into India's coastal sustainability and blue economy initiatives. Renowned experts and policymakers highlighted the significance of responsible coastal management, emphasizing the integration of sustainable practices in harnessing ocean resources. The keynote delved into strategies for balancing economic development with conservation efforts, outlining key policies, innovative approaches, and collaborative frameworks necessary to promote a thriving blue economy while safeguarding the fragile coastal ecosystems of India.


Sustainable Coastal Management & Blue economy of India

Short Brief: The National Level Online Training on Python for beginners (Level 1) was designed to introduce fundamental Python programming concepts to novices. Participants engaged in hands-on learning sessions covering basic syntax, data structures, and introductory programming principles using Python. The workshop aimed to equip beginners with foundational skills essential for entry-level programming, fostering a practical understanding of Python's applications across various fields such as data analysis, software development, and automation.

National Level Online Training on Python for beginners- Level 1 in collab with Council of Architecture TRC

Short Brief: The national-level online workshop focused on utilizing open-source frameworks for delineating urban features from Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) drone data. Experts and participants delved into techniques and tools, exploring the potential of open-source solutions for processing drone-collected data to identify and map urban features. The workshop aimed to empower attendees with practical knowledge and skills, highlighting the importance of accessible technology in urban planning and analysis through UAV-derived data.

National level online workshop on: open Source Framework: Delineation of Urban Features from UAV Drone Data in collab with Council of Architecture TRC

Session Expert:
Mr. Sudhir Mehta
Prof. Yugank Goyal
Mr. Aashish Chandrokar
Ar.Prasanna Desai

Short Brief: The panel discussion on "Economic Development and Pune" at the Pune Development Summit was a pivotal conversation addressing the city's economic trajectory. Eminent economists, policymakers, and business leaders deliberated on strategies to bolster Pune's economic landscape, focusing on key sectors, investment opportunities, and fostering entrepreneurship. Discussions encompassed initiatives to attract investments, promote innovation ecosystems, and leverage Pune's strengths to drive sustainable economic growth, envisioning a prosperous future for the city as a regional economic powerhouse.

Key takeaways from the Summit: The Pune Development Summit emerged as a comprehensive platform, hosting diverse panel discussions on pivotal aspects of the city's growth. These discussions covered critical topics such as urban planning, infrastructure, economic development, and future foresight. Experts, industry leaders, and policymakers converged to envision Pune's evolution by 2030, emphasizing sustainable practices, innovation integration, and strategic planning across real estate, industries, and economic sectors. The summit aimed to chart a holistic roadmap for Pune's development, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to ensure the city's resilience, economic prosperity, and quality of life in the coming decade.


Economic Development and Pune

Session2 g Experts:
Mr. Aditya Javadekar
Mr. AMit Paranjpe
Dr. Priya Nagaraj

Session Brief: The panel discussion "Building the Pune of the Future: Real Estate, Industries, and Science" was a cornerstone of the Pune Development Summit, focusing on key sectors shaping the city's evolution. Industry leaders, real estate experts, and scientific innovators convened to explore collaborative strategies for sustainable growth, emphasizing the integration of industries, urban development, and scientific advancements. Discussions revolved around fostering innovation hubs, infrastructural enhancements, and creating an environment conducive to economic prosperity, positioning Pune as a dynamic center for industries, research, and real estate development in the future.


Building the Pune of Future

Milind Deshpande
Prof.R.N.Gohad
Mr. A B Vijaykumar

Session Brief: The panel discussion titled 'Pune @ 2030: Infrastructure, Urbanisation, and Planning' was a pivotal part of the Pune Development Summit, focusing on the city's future trajectory. Experts and stakeholders deliberated on strategic urban planning, envisioning the infrastructure needed to accommodate anticipated urban growth by 2030. Discussions revolved around sustainable development, transport networks, housing, and technology integration, aiming to chart a comprehensive roadmap for Pune's evolution, ensuring resilience and quality of life for its residents amidst rapid urbanization.


Pune Development Summit 2022

Session Expert: 
Dr. Eng Murad Kalaldeh (president, Jordanian Urban Planning Forum, Prof - Al Balaqa Applied University)
Prof. Ali. A, Alraouf (Head of research and

Short Brief: The session explored the contrasting approaches to urban growth management in Amman and Cairo metropolises, shedding light on their unique challenges and strategies. Experts discussed the divergent urban planning policies, infrastructure development, and socio-economic factors influencing the growth trajectories of these two prominent Middle Eastern cities. Participants gained valuable insights into the complexities of managing urban growth in diverse contexts, drawing lessons applicable to sustainable development practices in rapidly expanding cities worldwide.


Urban Growth management: Amman and Cairo Metropolises

Session Expert: 
Ar. Prasanna Desai (Architect & Urban Designer)

Short Brief: 
The session provided insights into promoting environmentally friendly transport modes, focusing on walking, cycling, and other forms of active mobility. Experts discussed strategies, policy frameworks, and community engagement initiatives aimed at encouraging these sustainable modes of transportation, emphasizing their positive impact on health, the environment, and urban livability. Participants gained practical knowledge on implementing measures to enhance active mobility within communities, fostering a more sustainable and healthier approach to transportation.


Sustainable Transportation: Encouraging Active Mobility

Session Expert: 
Dr. Antonella Contin (Associate Professor, Politecnico Di Milano, Italy)
Dr. Valentina Galiulo (Associate Professor, ETSA SEVILLA, Spain)

Short Brief: The session converged theory and practicality, exploring the intersection of feminist perspectives and spatial theories. Through engaging discussions and examples, it aimed to create a meaningful dialogue on how feminist knowledge can inform and transform spatial practices, emphasizing inclusivity, equality, and diverse perspectives in urban and architectural design. This event fostered a platform for professionals and scholars between India, Mexico, and Italy to bridge the gap between theory and application, fostering actionable steps towards more equitable and socially conscious spatial planning.


From Feminist Knowledge to Action: Building A Bridge between Spatial theories and Practices

Session Expert: 
Mr.Mohit Bhambry (Founder & Chief Engineer, Smart Cities Wheel)
Prof.Anugrah Nagaich (Prof, MANIT Bhopal)

Short Brief: The E-Colloquium 1.0 on Artificial Intelligence in Urban Development was a virtual forum fostering discussions on AI's transformative role in shaping urban landscapes. Experts convened to delve into AI applications like smart infrastructure, predictive analytics, and traffic management, envisioning how these technologies can revolutionize urban planning and enhance city living. Attendees gained insights into innovative AI solutions aiming to optimize resources, sustainability, and overall urban quality of life.


E-Colloquium 1.0 on Artificial Intelligence in Urban Development

Session Expert:  Prof. Carlos Moreno (Inventor, 15 Minute City and Professor, Paris Sorbonne University)

Short Brief: The session spoke about fundamentals of what a 15 minute city is, how it is socially, economically and environmentally a significant concept in the pursuit of sustainable development of global cities. The concepts such as decarbonisation, hyper-proximity, streets for people were discussed through this. 


The 15- Minute City

Session Expert: 
Prof.Dr.Sara Prosasoni (Landscape Architect, Head of MSC in Sustainable Architecture & landscape Design, Politecnico Di Milano, Italy)
Prof.Suneet Mohindru (Landscape Architect & Founder Principal - Oracles)

Short Brief:
The session brought two perspectives about how sustainability, landscape and design interplay in the contexts of India and Italy. Various designing examples and landscape concepts were presented through this discussion which led to thought-provoking insights. The Italian Po-Valley region and Indian Ganga river region was extensively discussed in the session


International Panel Discussion on landscape Design and Sustainable Ecology

Session Expert: Ms. Sejal Mathur (Management Consultant, EY India)

Short Brief: The session was an introductory seminar for those who wish to pursue careers in urban Planning industry with the consultancy and management firms. The session included basic soft skills, analytical skills and tips about how to be industry-ready in urban planning.


Planogram Placement Podcast : An Interactive Q/A Session with Sejal Mathur

Session Expert: Lama Akmeel (PhD Scholar in Urban Planning, Jordan)

Short Brief: This offline activity in Irbid City, Jordan gathered various architects and planners from Jordan to discuss and explore various public spaces around. Thoughts about walkability, accessibility, design, and planning were laid down during the discussion.



Urban Talk about Public Spaces in Irbid city. Problems, Challenges & Solutions

Session Expert: 
Dr. Meenakshi Dhote (HoD, Environmental Planning, SPA New Delhi)
Dr. Barsha Poricha (Deputy team Lead, Centre for Urban and Regional Excellence(CURE)
Trupti Jain (Founder & Director, Naireeta Services Pvt. LTD)
Ayushi Trivedi (Young Expert on gender Studies and Social Equity, WRI, India)

Short Brief: The e-conclave uncovered various thoughts and debates about climate change. The synergy between urban planning and climate action was widely discussed by various experts in detail. The conclave also focused on the gender equality aspect of climate change. The conclave provided insights on various climate actions in theory and practice thereby giving a platform to academic and industrial voices.


Panel Discussion on  : Gender equality and Climate Change Dr. Meenakshi Dhote (HoD, Environmental Planning, SPA New Delhi) Dr. Barsha Poricha (Deputy team Lead, Centre for Urban and Regional Excellence(CURE) Trupti Jain (Founder & Director, Naireeta Services Pvt.LTD) Ayushi Trivedi (Young Expert on gender Studies and Social Equity, WRI, India)

Session Experts: 
Dr.Manmohan Kapshe (Professor, MANIT Bhopal) : Role of Human Settlement Responding to Climate Change
Lalit Kishor Bhati (Architect and Planner, PATH Architects) : Auroville and Climate Change

Short Brief: The Climate Change E-Conclave brought together experts, policymakers, and activists to discuss the pressing issue of climate change and its global impacts. We aimed to raise awareness, share insights on current research, and propose actionable solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Climate change E-Conclave 

Session Experts: 
Dr. Sameer Deshkar (Professor, VNIT, Nagpur) 
Shri.Subhendra Kumar Nayak (Former Director, Odisha Disaster Management Authority)

Short Brief: The talk series focused on key issues related to disaster management such as resilience, preparedness, sustainability, and much more. Various real-life examples, best practices, experiences, and futuristic concepts associated with hazards and disasters were discussed.


Talk Series on Disaster Management

Session Expert: Prof. Yogesh Garg (Professor, MANIT Bhopal)

Short Brief: The session outlined various fundamentals of Indian Knowledge Systems and Urban Planning for the development of human settlements. The indic elements of planning and architecture relevant in the present day were discussed thoroughly. 


Vastu Shastra in Settlements : The Science Behind & Applications 

Session Experts: 
R.Srinivas (Former Head of Metropolitan Areas and UTs, Town & Country Planning Organisation, Govt. of India)
Dr. Raed Al Tal (Professor, Jordan University of Science and Technology)
Prof. Chetan Vaidya (Former Director, NIUA & HUDCO)
Dr. Ahmed Abu Al Haija (Consultant - UNESCO)
Dr. Abdul Razak Mohamed (HOD, Professor, School of Planning & Architecture, Vijayawada)

Short Brief: The Indo-Jordan Urban Planning Forum spanned over two weeks which brought various experts from both countries closer to students and researchers. Various topics related to urban planning, heritage conservation, development and cities were covered during the forum. Further, urban planning relations between two countries were explored.


India - Jordan Urban Planning Forum

Session Expert: Sanjeev Sanyal (Member of the Economic Advisory Council to Prime Minister; Former Principal Economic Advisor of India)

Short Brief: This session exchanged multiple ideas about how there is a need to rethink the way we look at cities. Multiple dimensions and thoughts were laid down to reimagine the Indian cities to unlock fullest of their potential.


Rethinking Indian Cities

Session Expert: Pedro B Ortiz (Founder, International Metropolitan Institute, Madrid and International Consultant to World Bank, UNHABITAT, EU, NYU)

Short Brief: This insightful session on the metropolitan planning of Indian metropolises was with a special emphasis on the metropolis of Kochi, Kerala. Through this, various strategies and interventions to plan for the development of Kochi were discussed alongside present day issues and challenges.


Structuring Indian Metropolises. “A case of Mega Kochi”

Session Expert: Hon.Kunal Kumar (Mission Director and Joint Secretary, Smart Cities Mission, MoHUA, Govt. of India) 

Short Brief: The talk comprehensively summarised the response of India’s smart cities to the COVID 19 pandemic and how various technological interventions were undertaken by the smart cities mission of India. Efforts of smart cities mission to transform urban India were also shared.


Smart Cities Mission & Response to COVID 19

Session Expert: Hon.Suresh Prabhu (Former Union Railways Minister and G 20 Sherpa of India)

Short Brief: The session brought perspectives about urbanisation is shaping the development trajectory of India and how the government is making policy interventions to ensure a sustainable and equitable future of Indian cities.


Urban Development & Government 

Session Expert: Dr. Amogh K Gupta (Chairman, Board of Governors - SPA vijayawada, (former SPAD)

Short Brief: The session outlined the chronology of human settlements in India with regards to ancient civilizations and human development. Various aspects of Sindhu-Saraswati Civilisation (Indus Valley Civilisation) were discussed with regards to the then planning and design elements. 


Settlement Planning in India: History, Evolution & Principles

Session Expert: Prof. Dr. Antonella Contin (Associate Professor, Politecnico Di Milano, Italy)

Short Brief: The session introduced various facets of architecture and urbanism at a metropolitan scale. The fundamentals of sustainability, landscape and environment at the intersection of metropolitan planning was discussed extensively citing global examples.


Metropolitan Architecture & Urbanism in Indian metropolises

Session Expert: Georg Jahnsen (International Consultant,GIZ)

Short Brief: The session hosted by Mr. Georg Jahnsen outlined the way open data and smart cities interplay. Technical details such as GIS, data analysis, big data and the very definition of smart cities were discussed through this session. Further, various smart cities initiatives in India were displayed in the session.


Open data and Smart Cities

Session Expert: Prof. Dr. Ruchita Gupta (Associate Professor, Dept. of Housing, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi)

Short Brief: The session discussed the fundamentals of housing, housing policies and emerging designs in housing especially on the backdrop of COVID-19. Additionally, other housing dimensions such as slum redevelopment, construction materials, housing typologies etc were discussed in the session


Housing Policy: Prospects Post Covid

Session Expert: Amruta Ponkshe (Associate Fellow, Observer Research Foundation ORF, Transportation Systems and Mobility Expert

Short Brief: The session entailed a discussion around the role of public transport in cities, the traffic management and modal shift in the cities. A dimension of lockdown was discussed as to how it implies public transport usage from citizens in terms of ridership, stigma and road safety.


Restarting Public Transport Post Lockdown

Session Expert: Pedro.B.Ortiz (Founder, International Metropolitan Institute, Madrid and International Consultant to World Bank, UNHABITAT, EU, NYU)

Short Brief: The session covered how the cities are becoming metropolises and how a paradigm shift is needed to govern the metropolitan areas. Governance, planning, development and management of metropolitan areas was discussed through this seminar with real time data and examples of global scale. 


Metropolitan Planning or Urban Planning Lessons from Covid

Session Expert: R.Srinivas (Former Head of Metropolitan Areas and UTs, Town & Country Planning Organisation, Govt. of India)

Short Brief: The session was aimed at enhancing the literacy of urban planning, norms, rules and regulations at present. Additionally, a discussion was made about probable changes in urban planning practices in the view of COVID-19 pandemic. Various existing practices and interventions of the government were elaborate explained. 


Planning Interventions Post COVID

Session Expert : Prof. Dr. Jayeeta Sen (Assistant Professor, Dept. of Environmental Planning, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi)

Short Brief: The session introduced the fundamentals of sustainability, environmental planning, ecosystems, habitats and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Various key concepts such as climate change, afforestation, ecology and their interplay with urban planning were covered through this seminar.


The Sustainable Development

Session Expert: Mr. Ashik Jain (Architect, Urban Planner, Bicycle Mayor, Pimpri Chinchwad City)

The session introduced key concepts of street designing, transport planning, walkability and urban design. Various concepts such as designing junctions, planning pedestrian facilities, traffic management, designing of bicycle tracks and basics of accessibility were covered. 