The G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (NIHE), an autonomous institute under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, is organizing a three-day Himalayan Conclave - ‘Indian Himalayan Region–2047: Environmental Conservation with Sustainable Socio-Economic Growth’ - from 13^th - 15^th November, 2025, at its headquarters in Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, Uttarakhand. The conclave aims to develop a strategic vision for the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) by 2047 in alignment with India's ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision, which envisions transforming India into a developed and sustainable economy by its centenary of independence.

The Himalayan Conclave will bring together leading scientists, academicians, policymakers, administrators, and representatives from NGOs and communities across the Himalayan region and beyond to deliberate on issues of environmental conservation, climate change adaptation, sustainable livelihoods, and regional cooperation. The Indian Himalayan Region, covering 11 states and two Union Territories, is globally recognized for its rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and ecological significance. However, the region is facing increasing challenges due to climate change, rapid demographic shifts, unsustainable land-use practices, and growing natural hazards, including glacier retreat, flash floods, and water resource depletion. The conclave aims to bring out action strategies to address these pressing issues and establish a roadmap for sustainable and inclusive growth in the region.

The deliberations during the three days will focus on six major thematic areas, including Himalayan biodiversity under changing climate; Land, water, and atmosphere interactions; Environmental sustainability and climate actions for resilience building; Socio-economic development and sustainable livelihood in the Indian Himalayan Region; Policy and governance frameworks to strengthen regional cooperation; and Gender equality and social inclusion for sustainable development, through 21 sessions. Each theme will include discussions led by experts, featuring presentations, open dialogues, and policy recommendations aimed at building resilience and sustainable socioeconomic growth in the Himalaya.

Through this platform, the conclave aims to revisit the existing action plan for the Himalaya in light of the emerging scenario and develop a revised plan for resilience and sustainable socioeconomic growth. It will also strengthen actions for climate resilience, promote sustainable livelihoods and a green economy, enhance governance and regional collaboration, and mainstream gender equality and social inclusion in development planning. The conclave also aims to promote ecosystem-based climate strategies, encourage responsible tourism, and support mountain communities through green entrepreneurship and the development of value-added local products. It will further explore regional cooperation mechanisms to harmonize conservation and development initiatives across the Himalayan states and neighboring countries.

The conclave is cohosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with key national and international organizations, including the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Department of Science and Technology (DST), Integrated Centre for Mountain Development (ICIMOD), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), ICARS, IIT Roorkee, National Centre for sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM), Wetland's Interaction South Asia (WISA) Uttarakhand Council of Science and Technology (UCOST), National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), State Bank of India (SBI), and several universities and NGOs.

The Himalaya is the ecological backbone of the Indian subcontinent. As we move towards India2047, it is essential to strike a balance between development and environmental integrity. This conclave will help to develop a pathway for a resilient and sustainable Himalayan future.” The outcomes of the event are expected to deliver strategies for managing groundwater and land degradation, as well as implementing climate change measures and action policies, empowering communities to achieve sustainable livelihoods, and fostering a renewed commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. The conclave will also contribute to the development of an updated Himalayan Action Plan, which will guide the region toward a secure, inclusive, and sustainable future in the wake of emerging challenges.

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