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  • WSDS 2026 Concludes with Climate Blueprint as TERI Calls for Accountability and Action

    WSDS 2026 Concludes with Climate Blueprint as TERI Calls for Accountability and Action

    Valedictory Session Unites Government, UN, Industry, and Youth for a Shared Climate Agenda

    New Delhi : The final day of the World Sustainable Development Summit 2026 (WSDS 2026), organised by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), concluded with renewed commitment and collective resolve. The Valedictory Session, titled “Reflections, Resurgence, and Resolve for Our Common Future,” brought together leaders from government, multilateral institutions, industry, academia, and civil society at the iconic Durbar Hall.

    The closing session reinforced WSDS as more than a convening platform — it emerged as a catalyst for accountable, implementation-driven climate action during what many termed the defining “climate decade.”

    India’s Climate Path: Growth with Responsibility

    Mr Tanmay Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India, emphasized that climate change now intersects with development, governance, and national security.

    He highlighted India’s science-based, equity-driven model — balancing economic growth, poverty eradication, urbanisation, industrialisation, and decarbonisation simultaneously. With per capita emissions at approximately 2 tonnes annually, India has surpassed its 2030 target of 50% non-fossil installed power capacity five years ahead of schedule, reaching over 51% in June 2025.

    “Clean energy is not charity,” he noted. “It is competitiveness driven by economics.”

    Climate Justice, Gender, and Youth Leadership Take Centre Stage

    Ms Dia Mirza, Goodwill Ambassador at the United Nations Environment Programme, underlined that climate change disproportionately impacts women and girls, despite their central role in food systems and community resilience. Sustainability, she stressed, is now foundational to survival, dignity, and peace.

    Ms Isabelle Tschan, Deputy Resident Representative at the United Nations Development Programme, highlighted India’s demographic advantage, with nearly 65% of its population under 35. She announced collaboration between UNDP, MoEFCC, and TERI to launch the Mission LiFE Youth Ambassadors programme, placing youth leadership at the heart of sustainability practice.

    Development and Climate: A Unified Economic Agenda

    Ms Vaishali Nigam Sinha, Co-Founder & Chairperson (Sustainability), ReNew, asserted that development and climate action are no longer parallel agendas but one unified economic imperative.

    “The global South is no longer asking for permission; it is offering solutions,” she said, adding that implementation between summits defines true progress.

    Dr Ash Pachauri of the POP (Protect Our Planet) Movement reflected on 25 years of WSDS, calling the milestone both a celebration of legacy and a reminder of shared responsibility for the future.

    From Individual Action to Global Movement

    Ms Prachi Shevgaonkar, Founder of Cool The Globe, shared her journey from a concerned student to leading a global citizen-driven sustainability initiative active in over 150 countries — demonstrating how small, daily climate actions can scale into collective transformation.

    Mr Nitin Desai, Chairman, TERI, reiterated that sustainable development demands collaborative learning across governments, businesses, researchers, and communities.

    Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, stressed that partnerships are no longer optional but essential in a resource-constrained world.

    Dr Shailly Kedia, Curator of WSDS and Director at TERI, highlighted record participation at WSDS 2026, with 2,381 delegates, 10 plenaries, 14 thematic tracks, and the defining Him-CONNECT segment focusing on Himalayan resilience and innovation.

    Key Launches: Knowledge, Youth, and Action

    The Valedictory Session featured several significant launches:

    • The 18th edition of Vasundhara – “Climate Capital”, the student-led sustainability magazine of TERI School of Advanced Studies.
    • The Act4Earth Manifesto, outlining collective climate commitments emerging from the Summit.
    • The launch of The Politics of Sustainable Development authored by Mr Nitin Desai.
    • Presentation of the WSDS 2026 Summit Report by Dr Shailly Kedia, summarising key outcomes from three days of deliberations.

    Parallel to the session, TerraZone — WSDS’s sustainability expo — showcased innovations across clean technology, circular economy models, and nature-based solutions. Him-CONNECT, curated by MoEFCC, brought Himalayan ecosystems and community-led resilience into the global sustainability narrative.

    A Mandate for the Climate Decade

    As WSDS 2026 drew to a close, one message resonated clearly: the climate decade demands convergence — of finance and fairness, ambition and accountability, innovation and inclusion.

    With strengthened partnerships and renewed resolve, WSDS reaffirmed its position as a global platform advancing transformative climate action for people, planet, and prosperity.

  • Most agencies sell visibility, Sorta Famous builds presence

    Most agencies sell visibility, Sorta Famous builds presence

    Sorta Famous works at the intersection of public relations, social media, branding, paid ads, and celebrity collaborations. Everything is designed to work together, not separately. Because today, brands need a solid 360° visibility approach.

    PR at Sorta Famous is not about random press mentions. It is about shaping a narrative that makes sense. One that positions founders as credible, sharp, and worth paying attention to.

    Social media is not treated like a daily chore. It is your public personality. The tone, the visuals, the messaging. Everything is intentional. When someone lands on your page, they should instantly understand who you are and why you exist.

    Branding goes deeper than design. It has clarity and sharp positioning. It is removing confusion so your audience does not have to figure you out.

    Then come paid ads. Not as a panic button, but as an accelerator. When the story is strong and the positioning is clear, ads simply scale what is already working.

    And celebrity or creator collaborations are never about clout for the sake of it. They are about alignment, right face, right voice. What makes Sorta Famous different is simple. It sees the full picture.

    It understands that founders do not just need coverage. They need cohesion. They need strategy behind the spotlight. They need growth that feels intentional, not chaotic.

    Instead of juggling five different agencies for five different services, brands get one integrated ecosystem. PR strengthens social presence and relevant collaborations elevate credibility.

    We at Sorta Famous are not just trying to make clients famous but building them so that they are remembered for the right reasons.

  • The Anti-Diva Advantage: The Professionalism That Makes Directors Trust Sheena Chohan to Deliver

    The Anti-Diva Advantage: The Professionalism That Makes Directors Trust Sheena Chohan to Deliver

    In an industry driven by deadlines, budgets, and creative precision, reliability is increasingly becoming one of the most valued traits in Bollywood. Actress Sheena Chohan is quietly earning recognition for exactly that — a professional approach that filmmakers say strengthens every project she joins.

    While the spotlight often favors glamour and star power, those working behind the scenes know that consistency and preparation keep a film running. Sheena’s growing reputation stems from her understanding that cinema is ultimately a collaborative effort.

    “Professionalism is not just about punctuality — it’s about preparation, emotional clarity, and alignment with the director’s vision,” she says. “When I sign a film, I am committing not just to a role but to the entire journey of creating that character responsibly. I am there to serve the story, to understand what the director wants to express, and to bring that alive with sincerity and discipline. I believe in being tantrum-free, solution-oriented, and fully invested in the process from the first day of shoot to the film’s release. Being a true teammate means staying committed until the very end.”

    “I’ve seen how fragile a film set can become when ego enters the room,” she reflects. “I remember once an entire schedule collapsing because a small misunderstanding over escalated, and the energy of the set shifted overnight. On another occasion, a disagreement between an actor and a producer stalled work for hours while hundreds waited. Moments like those stay with you. They remind you that cinema is bigger than any one person. My focus has always been to protect the work, the team, and the spirit of collaboration.”

    Her work ethic has made an impression on crews and directors alike. Known for arriving fully prepared, understanding her character’s emotional journey, and remaining open to feedback, Sheena approaches each film with a sense of shared responsibility.

    “You’re not just working for yourself,” she explains. “There are assistant directors planning schedules, technicians working long hours, producers managing budgets, and co-actors building their arcs. Every department is interconnected. My job is to contribute positively to that ecosystem. If a director feels something can be improved, I listen, recalibrate, and give it my absolute best. The goal is always to elevate the project.”

    Acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur has previously spoken about her integrity and emotional intensity, noting her ability to internalize a role and express it with rare subtlety and depth. Director Jairaj has praised her instinctive emotional authenticity, while her co-star Subodh Bhave has shared how enjoyable it was to work with her on set, citing her dedication and unwavering commitment to her craft.

    At a time when the word “diva” is often used loosely, Sheena represents a different archetype — one rooted in discipline, humility, preparation, and respect for the filmmaking process. That sustained professionalism, combined with creative sincerity, is what increasingly makes her a trusted collaborator for filmmakers.

    Recently, ahead of a Pan-India film, her co-star JD Chakravarthy also revealed his experience of working with Sheena. He says, “Sheena brings clarity, focus, and complete commitment to the set. She respects the script, the team, and the director’s vision. That professionalism makes her not only dependable but a genuinely strong creative partner.”

    Sheena Chohan recently won the Best Actress Award for Sant Tukaram and the Cultural Leadership Award for advancing human rights by the World Women Leadership Congress 2026, proving her credibility and bankability as an actress who not only delivers powerful performances but is a true professional on set and a dream to work with.

  • Seerat Kapoor Owns the Filmfare Red Carpet in Bold Green; Her Candid Selfie With Allu Arjun Wins Hearts

    Seerat Kapoor Owns the Filmfare Red Carpet in Bold Green; Her Candid Selfie With Allu Arjun Wins Hearts

    At an evening defined by cinematic excellence and high fashion, Seerat Kapoor stood out as one of the most striking presences on the Filmfare red carpet; commanding attention in bold green while also capturing hearts with a heartfelt, reflective moment off-stage.

    The actress made a powerful style statement in a stunning Neon Sauvage draped saree by Basanti Kapde Aur Kofee. Crafted in rich green crepe and adorned with intricate sequins and delicate coin embroidery, the ensemble blended contemporary drama with timeless elegance. The sweetheart neckline added softness to the silhouette, while the fluid drape brought movement and grace to her appearance.

    Styled with soft cascading curls, statement long earrings and layered bracelets, Seerat embodied polish and poise. Her luminous makeup and confident presence ensured the look felt bold yet refined a perfect balance of glamour and sophistication.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Seerat Kapoor (@iamseeratkapoor)

    While her red-carpet appearance dominated fashion conversations, it was a candid post that truly resonated with fans.

    Days after the awards night, Seerat shared an adorable selfie with superstar Allu Arjun, fondly known as “Bunny,” who took home the Best Actor award. The image reflected warmth and familiarity a quiet celebration beyond the spotlight.

    Acknowledging his achievement, Seerat captioned the photo,
    “Still celebrating a well-deserved win. A moment worth holding on to. Some bonds are rooted in respect and steady encouragement. Grateful always, Bunny 🤍✨”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Seerat Kapoor (@iamseeratkapoor)

    The heartfelt note struck a chord with fans, who admired both the gracious acknowledgment of his win and the authenticity of their long-standing camaraderie. Their effortless comfort, seen both at the venue and in the selfie, highlighted a friendship built on admiration and positivity.

    In an industry that thrives on grand moments, Seerat Kapoor once again proved that true star presence lies not only in commanding the spotlight but also in celebrating others with grace.

    Because sometimes, the most powerful statements are made quietly.

  • Akriti Agarwal and Ruslaan Mumtaz Bring Laila & Vihan’s Love Story to Life in Galti Se Gold Digger

    Akriti Agarwal and Ruslaan Mumtaz Bring Laila & Vihan’s Love Story to Life in Galti Se Gold Digger

    When a simple misunderstanding turns into a love story you can’t forget, magic is bound to unfold on screen. Influencer and actress Akriti Agarwal steps into an exciting new chapter of her career with her micro mini series debut, alongside popular television actor Ruslaan Mumtaz in Galti Se Gold Digger.

    Known for her phenomenal social media presence and engaging dance videos that have earned her a loyal fan following, Akriti transitions seamlessly into the digital fiction space with this fresh, entertaining narrative. In the series, she plays Laila, a spirited young woman whose innocent act of helping Vihan’s grandfather buy fruits leads to an unexpected misunderstanding. Ruslaan’s character, Vihan, assumes Laila has ulterior motives and mistakes her kindness for gold-digging intentions. What follows is a rollercoaster of emotions, humorous confrontations, and heartfelt moments as the story unfolds with surprising twists and turns.

    The chemistry between Akriti and Ruslaan adds depth and charm to the narrative, making the short-format storytelling format both engaging and impactful.

    Sharing her excitement, Akriti says, “This project was such a refreshing experience for me. The micro mini format keeps the energy high, and every scene matters. Working with Ruslaan was wonderful — we had an amazing time bringing Laila and Vihan’s journey to life.”

    Ruslaan adds, “The beauty of this series lies in its simplicity and relatability. It shows how quickly we judge people and how love can bloom in the most unexpected situations. Shooting with Akriti was effortless — her energy is infectious.”

    Backing this engaging series is Onkar Films and Production, spearheaded by producer Manish Shukla. The production house has steadily carved a niche in the digital domain, completing nearly 60 series to date. With ambitions of reaching the 100-project milestone, the banner is positioning itself as a major force in short-format content creation.

    Their focus on micro mini series reflects a broader shift in viewing patterns, where audiences increasingly gravitate toward short, high-impact narratives tailored for digital consumption. With crisp storytelling, relatable characters, and modern themes, Galti Se Gold Digger stands as yet another testament to this evolving entertainment landscape — proving that sometimes, even a “galti” can lead to something truly golden.

  • Seerat Kapoor Sends Heartfelt Wishes To Newlyweds Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, Calls It a “Sacred New Chapter”

    Seerat Kapoor Sends Heartfelt Wishes To Newlyweds Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, Calls It a “Sacred New Chapter”

    When one star celebrates another, it shines brighter, and Seerat Kapoor marked the moment with a sincere, heartfelt message. The Tollywood actress Seerat Kapoor took to social media to congratulate Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda, sharing a dreamy wedding picture along with a deeply personal note.

    Calling their union a “sacred new chapter,” Seerat wrote:

    “With a full heart, I send my warmest blessings to @thedeverakonda and @rashmika_mandanna as you begin this sacred new chapter together 🤍
    Marriage is choosing each other every single day; through growth, dreams and the quiet moments in between. May your bond always be rooted in friendship, respect and a love that feels like home.
    I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Vijay and what stayed with me was his humility and kindness, qualities that truly matter beyond the spotlight.
    Wishing you both a lifetime of companionship and grace. All my love ✨”

    Her words captured the deeper meaning of marriage: a partnership shaped by daily choice, understanding and enduring friendship. By highlighting Vijay’s humility and kindness, Seerat added a thoughtful personal touch, acknowledging the person beyond the public image.

    Fans have been showering the post with admiration, applauding the sincerity and genuine sentiment behind her gesture.

    As Rashmika and Vijay begin this beautiful journey together, Seerat Kapoor’s message stands as a touching reminder that love grounded in friendship and respect becomes timeless. ✨

  • Bollywood Actress Bhagyashree Endorses Raj Cooling’s Kiozy+ Air Purifier Range

    Bollywood Actress Bhagyashree Endorses Raj Cooling’s Kiozy+ Air Purifier Range

  • School of FutureTech Hosts Advanced RAG Workshop “Think Research Implement” in Mumbai

    School of FutureTech Hosts Advanced RAG Workshop “Think Research Implement” in Mumbai

    Mumbai, February 2026: The School of FutureTech’s Research and Development Club successfully hosted an advanced technical workshop titled “Think. Research. Implement.” on 13th February 2026 at the Mini Auditorium. The workshop offered students an immersive learning experience focused on cutting-edge developments in Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) systems, blending academic theory with practical implementation.

    Expert-Led Learning Experience

    The event was conducted under the guidance of Faculty Coordinators Vinaya Ma’am and Gaurav Sir, with Student Lead Saurabh Yadav ensuring seamless execution. The session featured Dr. Pranita Mahajan as the Guest Speaker, who led participants through an intensive, hands-on exploration of advanced RAG methodologies and real-world AI applications.

    Bridging Research and Real-World Implementation

    Throughout the workshop, students gained practical exposure to building advanced RAG pipelines, effectively connecting academic research concepts with industry-oriented solutions. Key learning highlights included:

    • Running large language models locally using Ollama

    • Integrating AI models within Google Colab

    • Processing and analyzing academic research documents

    • Implementing Multi-Query Expansion and Reranking techniques

    • Transforming static PDFs into searchable, AI-powered knowledge bases

    These sessions empowered participants to move beyond theoretical understanding and develop deployable AI-driven research systems.

    Leadership Perspective

    Dr. Kalpana Kumaran, Head of the B.Tech Program, School of FutureTech, ITM Skills University, remarked:

    “Workshops like ‘Think. Research. Implement.’ reflect our commitment to bridging classroom learning with cutting-edge industry practices. It is inspiring to see our students gain hands-on experience in advanced AI systems that will shape the future of technology.”

    Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators

    The “Think. Research. Implement.” workshop stands as a testament to the School of FutureTech’s dedication to equipping students with advanced tools and knowledge at the intersection of AI research and practical application. By fostering experiential learning, the institution continues to prepare students for innovation in AI-driven research and technology systems.

    Admissions are now open for the BTech CSE program at the School of FutureTech.
    Apply today and become part of the next generation of technology innovators:
    https://www.itm.edu/btech-cse-program/

  • From Lighting Lives to Powering Livelihoods: TERI’s LaBL 2.0 Targets the Next Billion

    From Lighting Lives to Powering Livelihoods: TERI’s LaBL 2.0 Targets the Next Billion

    From Solar Lamps to Sustainable Livelihoods: LaBL 2.0 Expands the Billion Lives Vision

    New Delhi | 27 February 2026: At a defining moment in India’s clean energy transition, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) launched LaBL 2.0 (Lighting a Billion Lives 2.0) at an inspiring ‘Dinner of Hope’ in New Delhi — reimagining decentralized renewable energy as a catalyst for green livelihoods, women-led entrepreneurship, and measurable climate action.

    Hosted at the iconic Taj Palace, New Delhi, the evening convened policymakers, ministers, industry leaders, multilateral agencies, financial institutions, civil society representatives, and grassroots beneficiaries to mark a pivotal step in scaling inclusive clean energy solutions across India.

    Building on the transformative success of TERI’s original Lighting a Billion Lives initiative — which demonstrated how decentralized renewable energy (DRE) can empower communities — LaBL 2.0 moves beyond energy access to enable, Large-scale productive use of decentralised renewable energy, Green livelihoods and women-led enterprises, Strengthened local clean energy value chains, Robust carbon accounting and climate outcome measurement, and Scalable, replicable, and finance-ready implementation models.

    The evening witnessed the official release of the TERI–MNRE Joint Policy Paper, in partnership with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), reinforcing alignment between decentralised renewable energy expansion and India’s net-zero 2070 pathway.

    Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, shared, “Everyone now wants change; everyone wants to hear the voice of the poor, and TERI understands that we cannot develop as a country if we leave out the rural community. While we very proudly say that energy consumption per capita is low in India, we must understand that this is because of two reasons-lack of accessibility and affordability. If India is to develop, we must provide energy to all at affordable prices. With this vision, TERI launched Lighting a Billion Lives.”

    Dr Jeevan Kumar Jethani, Scientist-F and Senior Director, MNRE, averred, “Even after 76 years of Independence, if we are not able to provide light, it does not reflect well. The government has been tremendously working towards providing grid connections and extending services through solar energy where grid connection is not possible. It is our duty to provide energy for rural livelihoods so that people can carry out economic activities while remaining in their villages, without having to leave for urban areas in search of jobs.”

    Dr Amit Kumar Thakur, Head-CSR, TERI, said, “We began with lighting homes; we now move towards powering livelihoods. LaBL has a long canvas. Launched in 2008, we began this journey with a clear vision of providing electricity where the grid could not reach. Energy access changes evenings, but livelihoods change futures—that’s where LaBL 2.0 was born.”

    The launch segment featured the unveiling of the LaBL 2.0 Mission & Vision, the programme logo, digital platform, and the premiere of the LaBL 2.0 Vision Film — setting the tone for a transition that is inclusive, accountable, and financially sustainable.

    The Ministerial Segment saw addresses and high-level engagement from Dr Laxmikant Bajpai, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, said, “Sustainability begins with local action. By looking at the transformation of Hastinapur, we see a powerful blueprint for how renewable energy can meet our modern needs while honoring our heritage. It is through these regional successes that we build a truly sustainable and energy-independent India.”

    Shri Om Prakash Sinha, Member of Parliament, said, “The ultimate benefits of research and development should reach the masses. LaBL 2.0’s objective is the same. The need of the hour is greener, less carbon footprint, and increased productivity- energy transition should reach to the masses at the bottom.”

    H.E. Mr Madhav Prasad Chaulagain, Minister, Ministry of Forests and Environment, Nepal, H.E. Dr Dammika Patabendi, Minister of Environment, Ministry of Environment, Sri Lanka, H.E. Dr Muaviyath Mohamed, Minister of State, Tourism and Environment, Maldives; Ms Dechen Tsering, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and Ms Martina Otto, Head of Secretariat of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) were present during this momentous occasion.

    Shri Nitin Desai, Chairman, TERI, shared, “The basic principle underlying this approach is the need to reach people at the grassroots level. As emphasized by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and our Prime Minister, development must reach ‘Antyodaya’—the last person in the queue. The key to sustainability lies in the effectiveness of reaching those at the very end. This is what TERI works towards. Lighting a billion lives aims to reaching the people at the ground level, it aims to make energy accessible to all.”

    Dr Dipankar Saharia, Senior Director, TERI, said, “We have shown how a sustainable way of doing things can make a big impact on our lives, and we have demonstrated this through LaBL. LaBL aligns with SDG 2030, Viksit Bharat 2047, and Net Zero 2070. LaBL 2.0 symbolises renewed commitment to decentralised rural energy to strengthen rural neighbourhoods and advance India’s climate and development goals.”

    LaBL 2.0 also announced a portfolio of flagship initiatives designed to accelerate impact at scale, Hastinapur Model City, HUDCO Model Solar Village, TKIL Strategic Partnership on Solar and Innovative Technologies, GCC DRE Carbon Credit Program, and Hindalco – Sustainable Rehabilitation of Legacy Waste Sites.

    These initiatives signal a shift toward aggregated DRE models integrated with credible Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) frameworks — unlocking access to climate finance and carbon markets while enhancing accountability and viability.

    In a powerful recognition segment, LaBL partners, and beneficiaries were honoured on stage — reaffirming that clean energy must be community-led and livelihood-centred. The symbolic “Press the Light for LaBL” pledge moment invited partners and supporters to stand in solidarity, illuminating the hall in a collective commitment to scaling decentralised clean energy solutions.

    LaBL 2.0 aligns decentralised renewable energy with climate finance, just transition principles, and measurable climate outcomes. By aggregating small-scale interventions and linking them to robust carbon accounting frameworks, the programme aims to make grassroots clean energy projects investment-ready and globally credible.

    Through LaBL 2.0, TERI — in partnership with MNRE and a broad coalition of stakeholders — reaffirms its commitment to accelerating India’s green transition in a way that strengthens livelihoods, empowers women entrepreneurs, enhances climate accountability, and contributes meaningfully to national and global sustainability goals.

  • Multilateralism, Climate Action at the Core: World Leaders, Ministers, South Asian Voices Converge at WSDS 2026

    Multilateralism, Climate Action at the Core: World Leaders, Ministers, South Asian Voices Converge at WSDS 2026

    From Himalayan coalitions to green manufacturing and future-ready technologies, global leaders at WSDS 2026 call for transformative, inclusive climate action

    New Delhi, 27 February 2026: Day 2 of the 25th edition of the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) 2026, organized by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), advanced the global conversation on sustainability by spotlighting nature-positive development, green industrial transformation, future technologies, and renewed multilateral cooperation.

    During a high-level plenary, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, shared, “Over the past decade, India’s maritime sector has undergone a deep transformation under the leadership of the present government, evolving from capacity expansion and efficiency gains to a strategy anchored in sustainability. Guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of reform, performance, and transformation, maritime governance today places green growth at the centre of economic development. India is committing to renewable energy adoption at ports, carbon neutrality, green shipping corridors, and large-scale green hydrogen production, supported by institutional reform and international partnerships.”

    The Ministerial session titled, “Multilateralism as a Force for Hope and Impact” reinforced the centrality of multilateral cooperation in navigating climate and development challenges.

    H.E. Dr Dammika Patabendi, Minister of Environment, Sri Lanka, said, “We are making strong progress; nearly 100% of our population has access to electricity, and renewable energy accounts for approximately 50% of our total electricity generation, with a target of 70% by 2030. However, transformation requires more than policy. It demands collective will, courage to act, humility to listen, and commitment to cooperate.”

    H.E. Mr Madhav Prasad Chaulagain, Minister, Ministry of Forests and Environment, Nepal, stated, “Multilateralism is not merely a diplomatic concept for Nepal; it is a means to share responsibilities and collectively address regional and global issues. We face the reality of our fragile Himalayan ecosystem: our mountains are melting, our ecosystems are devastated, and our people are suffering. The air we breathe in Kathmandu is connected to the air in New Delhi. The water from the Himalayas flows into rivers that sustain millions downstream”.

    H.E. Dr Muaviyath Mohamed, Minister of State, Tourism and Environment, Maldives, remarked, “Multilateralism is not an abstract ideal for the Maldives but a matter of survival. As a low-lying nation with more than 99% of our territory comprising oceans, rising sea levels threaten our very existence. Yet we have seen how international cooperation can deliver measurable results. Through partnerships, we have strengthened coral reef monitoring and pursued innovative renewable energy solutions.”

    Mr Jochen Flasbarth, State Secretary, German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUKN), observed, “What we cannot accept is when one country puts pressure on others to undermine collective action, as we saw at the IMO, where small island countries faced attacks for supporting decarbonization of shipping lines. This destroys the world community in its essence. Fact-based progress is also under threat.”

    H.E. Mr Mattias Frumerie, Climate Ambassador & Head of Delegation to UNFCCC, Swedish Ministry of Climate and Enterprise, said, “For Sweden, multilateralism is in our DNA. It is through multilateralism and collaboration that we can jointly address common challenges and build prosperity globally. While the UNFCCC remains at the heart of climate action, we recognize that we must work more consistently across other platforms to accelerate the green transition. We are strengthening action through international organizations, climate initiatives like the Leadership Group for Industry Transition and the Global Carbon Pricing Challenge, and bilateral partnerships worldwide.”

    In her Global Leadership Address, Ms Anacláudia Marinheiro Centeno Rossbach, Executive Director, UN-Habitat, said, “Rapid urbanisation, especially in South Asia and Africa, is placing further pressure on cities that already face gaps in infrastructure, basic services, mobility, and opportunities. At the same time, climate change and more frequent disasters are disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities, deepening poverty and inequality. In this context, technology is not optional; it is essential. Smart use of technology can support urban planning, map vulnerabilities and risks, strengthen local governance, improve service delivery, expand access to finance, and promote sustainable construction.”

    Ms Dechen Tsering, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), remarked, “The real challenge today is not ambition, but finance. For every dollar invested in nature, far greater sums continue to flow into activities that degrade it. We therefore need to reform financial systems so that public spending aligns with climate and nature goals, harmful subsidies are repurposed, and private capital is mobilised at scale”.

    Ms Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Forests, stated, “Nature-based solutions must be treated as long-term public assets and not as commodities to be monetised at the cost of ecological integrity or community ownership. While mechanisms such as carbon and green credits are important to mobilise finance, they cannot replace strong legal protection, scientific planning, and the active participation of local communities. In Tamil Nadu, our experience shows that when ecosystem restoration is undertaken at scale and guided by data and governance, nature responds.”

    A flagship session on Towards a Himalayan Coalition for Sustainable Development brought together political leaders, practitioners, and regional experts to deliberate on safeguarding fragile mountain ecosystems. Mr Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Hon’ble Governor of Manipur, observed, “Technology, data, and community participation must work together to strengthen resilience. There is also scope to explore a carefully regulated, community-centric carbon framework that balances opportunity with environmental integrity. The future of the Himalayas depends on aligning ecology, economy, and equity within a national vision that is science-driven, financially innovative, and community-led. The responsibility is collective, and the moment to act is now.”

    Throughout the day, the sessions highlighted startup innovations, green and resilient built environments, demand creation for green steel through public procurement, and the critical role of women at the frontlines of climate action, biodiversity conservation, and land restoration.

    As WSDS 2026 progresses, the message from global leaders is clear: the era of incrementalism is over — the decade demands transformative action grounded in science, solidarity, and scalable solutions.