The months of November and December have been eventful for GRIHA Council. On the global platform, a significant event- 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) recently concluded in Dubai, hosted by the United Arab Emirates from 30 November to 12 December 2023.

GRIHA Council had the privilege to participate in various deliberations held during COP28. During the insightful 12 days, President, GRIHA Council; Vice President and CEO, GRIHA Council and Deputy CEO-cum-Secretary & Treasurer, GRIHA Council interacted with global leaders and industry experts from various countries across the world working in the realm of sustainability and global climate action. Apart from many accomplishments, one of the major highlights of COP28 was the widespread acknowledgement of the integral function of subnational governments and the crucial role of local leaders in furthering national initiatives to combat climate change.

I had the privilege to be a speaker for various intriguing sessions organized by Urban Transitions Mission Centre (Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy), Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Council on Energy Environment and Water (CEEW), Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) to name a few. It was an excellent experience meeting with industry partners in a series of bilateral sessions to discuss areas of shared interest and explore potential partnerships in the future.

At the national level, I am pleased to share that the annual 15th GRIHA Summit was a grand success hosted on 23 and 24 November 2023 at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Conforming with the Government of India’s initiative- Mission LiFE and accenting the need for collective action, the theme of this year’s GRIHA Summit was centred around “Empowering Sustainable and Resilient Communities”. The Summit oversaw active participation from diverse industry leaders and community experts who deliberated on varied aspects of sustainability under overarching themes.

It gives me immense pleasure to share that GRIHA Council is honoured to have received a message from the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri. Narendra Modi on the occasion of annual 15th GRIHA Summit which has been published in the 10th edition of annual GRIHA magazine- Shaswat- ‘Let Nature Be’. In his message, he addressed the dichotomy between development and environment and the need to strike a balance between the two, which has been deeply ingrained in the cultural ethos of our country. He also emphasized the responsibility on all citizens to safeguard the environment.

An exhibit titled VIKALP of real-scale models demonstrating the juxtaposition of a bamboo & mud house and a light gauge steel frame structure construction was displayed for the visitors to experience these methods of construction.

This year, GRIHA Council announced three new partnerships with- National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) & NRDC India; Smart Surfaces Coalition (SSC), USA and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS), Ministry of Education, Government of India to promote sustainable habitats.

I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the esteemed dignitaries and delegates, GRIHA awardees and valued partners of the 15th GRIHA Summit for their gracious presence, invaluable support, and active participation. I extend by gratitude to the team of GRIHA Council and TERI for their contributions in making the 15th GRIHA Summit 2023 a success.

Recently, GRIHA Council was also invited to deliver sessions for the HUDCO’s HSMI (Human Settlement Management Institute)-eITEC Five Days Online Training Programme on ‘Decarbonizing Habitat Programme- Meeting the Global Targets’. The training programme was designed for the overseas professionals working in housing and urban development sector. Urban professionals from Algeria, Egypt, Mauritius, and Myanmar attended the training on decarbonization strategies adopted to reduce carbon emissions in the built environment.

As the year draws to a close, I am grateful for the support, faith and confidence reposed on GRIHA Council by our valued partners, collaborators, and well-wishers. I thank my team at GRIHA Council for their concerted efforts in advancing the development of sustainable habitats that are consistent with the global vision of sustainable development whilst, addressing the evolving environmental and social challenges with inclusivity, integrity, and credibility.

Season’s greetings and my very best wishes to all for a happy and healthy New Year! May the year 2024 be filled with a renewed determination to safeguard our planet and ensure peace and tranquillity for all.