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

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.
