Latest Sustainable Development News | Top Sustainable Development News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking Sustainable Development News Today | English Sustainable Development News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

India’s Role in Commonwealth Is “Incredible”: Patricia Scotland

February 6, 2025, 11:59 pm

Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland has praised India’s commitment to digitalization and technology sharing, highlighting its impact on member states. Speaking in a Zoom interview with ANI, she noted India’s ability to provide digital services at a minimal cost, benefiting 1.4 billion citizens and beyond.

“India’s wonderful generosity means that when it has found a way of delivering services cheaply, efficiently, fairly, and effectively, it shares that knowledge. Our member states look to India with hope and expectation,” she stated.

India’s Commitment to Sustainable Development

Scotland commended India for prioritizing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and for its humanitarian support during the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasized that India’s generosity in sharing vaccines and resources exemplifies its leadership within the Commonwealth.

“India has made it clear that it believes in the SDGs, technology sharing, and helping others. When the world struggled during COVID-19, India was a true friend to many,” she added.

Patricia Scotland’s Upcoming Visit to India

The Commonwealth chief is scheduled to visit India on February 14-15, where discussions on trade, governance, and cooperation will be key topics.

Growth of Intra-Commonwealth Trade

Reflecting on her tenure, Scotland highlighted a significant rise in intra-Commonwealth trade from $564 billion to over $700 billion, with a growing advantage of 21%. She credited collaborative efforts in governance, media freedom, and the rule of law for this progress.

India’s Pivotal Role in the Commonwealth

Scotland reaffirmed India’s central role in shaping the future of the Commonwealth through innovation, trade, and sustainable development. Her visit is expected to further strengthen India’s global influence and partnerships within the organization.

Negotiations Fail To Reach Consensus On Plastic Pollution Treaty

December 2, 2024, 2:46 am

The 5th Session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on plastic pollution, held in Busan, has failed to reach a consensus, pushing discussions on the proposed international legally binding treaty to 2025. The current draft treaty, still in early stages with several unresolved issues, leaves major articles in brackets, highlighting the divisions between participating countries.

Key Points of Disagreement

Production Curbs Controversy:
Developing nations, including India and China, opposed curbing the production of primary plastic polymers, preferring a focus on waste management instead. India’s negotiator, Naresh Pal Gangwar, stressed that such measures could hinder the nation’s right to development.
Concerns of Developing Nations:
Countries like Iran and China echoed these concerns, calling for a more balanced approach that does not impose punitive measures on developing nations under the guise of financing or pollution control.
Opposition from Petro States:
Petro states like Saudi Arabia and Russia aligned with India, pushing back against production restrictions, while high-ambition nations like Rwanda, Panama, and Norway advocated for stronger action to address plastic pollution.

What’s Next?

The Path Forward:
The treaty text, which remains incomplete, will serve as the basis for further negotiations at the next INC meeting in 2025. Despite the setbacks, experts urge that momentum must be maintained to avoid further delays.
Implementation and Finance:
Observers pointed out that technology and financial support from developed nations would be crucial for implementing the treaty, with national circumstances being a key consideration for its success.

A Long Road Ahead

With the crucial issues unresolved, including the scope of the treaty covering the entire plastic lifecycle, and a lack of consensus on financing, it’s clear that significant work lies ahead. The next round of talks in 2025 will be pivotal in determining the final treaty’s effectiveness and global impact.

UAE, Cote d’Ivoire Strengthen Ties with New Cooperation Pact

November 29, 2024, 4:47 am

Abu Dhabi, November 29: Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, welcomed Robert Beugre Mambe, Prime Minister of Cote d’Ivoire, to Abu Dhabi for high-level discussions. The meeting focused on advancing bilateral relations in various fields, including trade, investment, tourism, and economic growth.

Commitment to Partnership

Abdullah bin Zayed emphasized the UAE’s dedication to fostering strong partnerships with African nations, including Cote d’Ivoire, to promote prosperity and achieve sustainable development. The meeting underlined both nations’ shared vision for comprehensive progress.

MoU to Strengthen Collaboration

During the discussions, the leaders witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalizing the creation of a joint cooperation committee between the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Integration, and Diaspora of Cote d’Ivoire.

The MoU was exchanged by Reem Al Hashemi, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, and Bruno Nabagne Kone, Cote d’Ivoire’s Minister of Construction, Housing, and Urban Planning.

Expanding UAE-African Relations

The meeting was also attended by senior UAE officials, including Reem Al Hashemi and Saeed Mubarak Al Hajri, who emphasized the importance of broadening economic and trade ties between the UAE and African nations.

This renewed partnership is set to enhance cooperation, not only benefiting the two nations but also contributing to the aspirations of their people for a brighter and more prosperous future.

German Envoy Highlights Air Pollution Concerns In Delhi, Calls For Collective Action

November 26, 2024, 12:53 am

German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann recently expressed grave concerns about Delhi’s worsening air pollution. Speaking at an event at the German Embassy marking 50 years of Indo-German science and technology cooperation, he highlighted the severe impact on individuals who spend significant time outdoors.

“Air quality in Delhi is unacceptable, especially for street vendors and rickshaw pullers who bear the brunt of exposure,” Ackermann said.

Efforts to Tackle Pollution

Ackermann acknowledged that Delhi’s air pollution stems from multiple sources, including garbage burning, thermal power plants, and stubble burning. He stressed the importance of collective efforts to address this complex issue, stating that the Indian government is actively working on solutions.

In cities like Nagpur and Surat, Germany is collaborating with local municipal administrations to build capacity and develop strategies to improve air quality.

Strengthening Indo-German Green Partnerships

Highlighting the Indo-German partnership for green and sustainable development, Ackermann shared insights into collaborative efforts aimed at reducing carbon emissions.

“We spend over a billion Euros annually on joint projects in India, focusing on renewables and innovative solutions to reduce emissions,” he said.

The event also celebrated 50 years of scientific cooperation between the two nations, showcasing significant achievements and ongoing commitments to sustainability.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Role in Strengthening Ties

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s recent visit to India underscored the deepening ties between the two nations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Scholz discussed collaborations in defense, security, and sustainable development.

Scholz lauded India as an anchor of peace and stability in South Asia, reiterating Germany’s support for New Delhi’s stand on regional peace.

COP29: India Calls for Equitable Carbon Space to Balance Development and Climate Goals

November 19, 2024, 10:23 pm

India on Tuesday underscored the urgent need for developed countries to lead in mitigating climate change and ensuring adequate carbon space for developing nations, while highlighting the disproportionate financial burden borne by the Global South.

Delivering the national statement at the COP29 summit in Baku, Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh called for ambitious and clear climate finance decisions. He stressed that the evolving needs of developing countries must be addressed to achieve sustainable development and poverty eradication.

Singh highlighted the historically high carbon emissions of developed nations, noting that their actions have left minimal room for the Global South within the carbon budget. “Our growth trajectories for fulfilling the primary needs of sustainable development and poverty eradication cannot be compromised,” he said.

Despite their limited contribution to global emissions, Singh emphasized, developing countries face significant financial burdens due to mitigation efforts and climate change impacts. “This severely limits our capacity to meet our developmental needs,” he added.

Singh called for climate justice to be central to decision-making at COP29. “The decisions on NCQG must be ambitious and unambiguous, taking into consideration the evolving needs and priorities of the developing countries,” he asserted.

He also pointed to the urgency of the next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), due next year. He warned that without immediate action from developed nations, a breach of carbon space could become imminent by the end of this decade. “It is imperative that the developed countries show leadership in mitigation actions, as required under the Paris Agreement, by not just advancing their net-zero targets but providing enough carbon space for developing countries like ours to develop,” Singh said.

Highlighting India’s climate efforts, Singh noted that India has exceeded its 2015 NDC commitments on emission intensity reduction and renewable energy. “India’s renewable energy capacity has nearly tripled from its 2014 levels, and we are on course to achieve the 500 GW target by 2030,” he said.

Singh reiterated the call for ambitious climate finance goals to support developing nations. “The decisions must be ambitious and unambiguous, taking into consideration the evolving needs and priorities of the developing countries, and their commitment to sustainable development and eradication of poverty,” he added.

He concluded by emphasizing the significance of COP29’s outcomes in shaping global climate action. “What we decide here will determine the course of history,” Singh said, urging all countries to work with determination to ensure meaningful and impactful results.

Also read: NF Railways and IIT Guwahati to Develop AI Systems for Train Safety and Sustainability

India’s leadership in global climate initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and the Global Biofuel Alliance, was also highlighted. Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to cooperating fully for a successful COP29 and ensuring that the outcomes reflect the urgent needs of developing nations in the fight against climate change.

UAE Launches Global Energy Efficiency Alliance To Slash Emissions By 2030

November 16, 2024, 1:57 am

The UAE has taken a bold step towards a sustainable future by launching the Global Energy Efficiency Alliance during COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. This groundbreaking initiative aims to double annual global energy efficiency rates by 2030, significantly cutting carbon emissions and reducing natural resource consumption.

Building on the UAE Consensus

The alliance builds on the UAE’s historic ‘UAE Consensus’ from COP28, where global stakeholders committed to curbing emissions and promoting sustainable resource use. Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, highlighted the alliance’s goal to unite countries, organizations, and the private sector in a shared mission for energy efficiency.

A Global Call to Action

Speaking at the UAE’s national pavilion at COP29, Al Olama emphasized the urgent need for global cooperation. “The UAE is ready to lead by example, offering best practices, knowledge transfer, and robust public-private partnership models,” he said, urging governments and organizations worldwide to join the initiative.

Key Goals of the Alliance

The alliance focuses on:
– Reducing Carbon Emissions: Accelerating efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
– Promoting Knowledge Sharing: Compiling and disseminating best practices in energy efficiency.
– Encouraging Investments: Attracting funds for energy-efficient projects globally.
– Supporting African Nations: Providing vital financing and technological solutions to foster energy efficiency across the continent.

Driving Innovation and Sustainability

By setting ambitious goals and fostering international collaboration, the Global Energy Efficiency Alliance aims to develop the policies and technologies necessary to achieve global sustainability targets. The UAE’s leadership in this initiative underscores its commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.

Brazil’s G20 Agenda Mirrors India’s 2024 Priorities: Foreign Secretary Misri

November 14, 2024, 4:06 am

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri underscored the strong alignment between Brazil’s G20 presidency agenda and India’s priorities from 2024. Brazil’s focus on social inclusion, energy transition, and global governance reform echoes India’s initiatives from its presidency.

African Union’s Historic Role in the G20

For the first time, the African Union (AU) will participate as a full G20 member. This significant step follows its induction during India’s presidency, symbolizing a broader representation in global governance.

Key Themes of Brazil’s G20 Presidency

Brazil’s G20 theme, Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet, emphasizes three key priorities:
1. Social Inclusion and Fight Against Hunger
2. Energy Transition and Sustainable Development
3. Global Governance Reforms

A flagship initiative, the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, will be launched, inviting participation from countries, international organizations, and civil society.

India Joins Two Pillars of Global Alliance

India will actively contribute to two pillars of the alliance: the national pillar and the knowledge pillar, reaffirming its commitment to tackling global challenges.

Energy Goals Reaffirmed

The G20 will revisit targets set in New Delhi, including tripling renewable energy capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030. Brazil continues India’s legacy by pushing for ambitious environmental and energy goals.

Women-Led Development

Brazil convened the first-ever Empowerment of Women Working Group, initiated during India’s presidency, cementing the importance of women-led development in G20 discussions.

PM Modi’s Three-Nation Tour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tour will cover Brazil for the G20 Summit, followed by visits to Nigeria and Guyana, marking a significant diplomatic engagement.

Transition of G20 Presidency

The Rio Summit will conclude with President Lula da Silva passing the G20 presidency to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking the fourth consecutive presidency held by emerging markets.

Putin Pushes BRICS for Green Growth

October 23, 2024, 7:32 pm

Russian President Vladimir Putin, during the recent BRICS Summit in Kazan, proposed a new investment platform specifically designed for BRICS nations. This platform is aimed at advancing low-emission economic models and providing financial support to countries in the Global South. Putin emphasized the urgency of promoting sustainable and eco-friendly growth models, aligning with global climate goals.

Currently, BRICS operates two key financial mechanisms: the New Development Bank (NDB), which supports infrastructure and sustainable development projects, and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA), providing short-term liquidity support to member nations. The proposed investment platform is intended to further these efforts, addressing economic challenges in the Global South by offering greater access to financial resources.

Also read: Omar Abdullah Demands J&K Statehood in Crucial Delhi Talks

Putin also touched on the potential expansion of BRICS, noting that over 30 countries have expressed interest in joining the group. While this demonstrates the global appeal of BRICS, Putin stressed the importance of maintaining balance and ensuring the bloc’s effectiveness amid expansion. He also highlighted the summit’s discussions on addressing regional conflicts, reflecting BRICS’ broader geopolitical ambitions.

PM Modi: Collective Strength Key To Humanity’s Success

September 23, 2024, 10:02 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the ‘Summit of Future’ at the United Nations, emphasized the importance of collective strength and human-centric development for a sustainable future.

Focus on Sustainable Development and Global Peace

PM Modi highlighted India’s achievement in elevating 250 million people out of poverty, demonstrating that sustainable development is possible. He stated that India’s success could serve as a model for the Global South.
“The success of humanity lies in our collective strength, not on battlefields. Reforms in global institutions are key for global peace and development,” Modi said.

Call for Global Digital Governance

Modi stressed the need for balanced regulations in technology for safe and responsible use. He advocated for global digital governance where sovereignty and integrity are maintained, and offered to share India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for global good.
“For India, One Earth, One Family, One Future is not just a slogan, it’s a commitment,” he added.

PM Modi’s Connection with the Indian Diaspora

On Sunday, Modi addressed the Indian diaspora in New York, recognizing them as strong ambassadors of India. He praised the “American-Indian spirit” and hailed their contribution to India’s image abroad.
“For the world, AI stands for artificial intelligence, but for me, AI also means the American-Indian spirit,” Modi quipped.

India as a Global Technology Hub

Earlier in the day, PM Modi met with US tech CEOs, underscoring India’s emergence as a global technology and innovation hub. He also announced India’s increased investment in the semiconductor sector, with an additional USD 15 million to further boost the industry.

NITI Aayog Vice Chairperson Informs UN: India To Meet SDG Targets Ahead Of 2030 Deadline

July 16, 2024, 11:53 am

During the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) General Debate, Suman K Bery, Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog, highlighted India’s progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Bery noted that India is on track to meet SDG Goal 1.2, which aims to halve the poverty rate, well before the 2030 target.

Bery shared that between 2015-16 and 2019-21, about 135 million Indians rose out of multidimensional poverty. This achievement was due to the integration of social safety nets, infrastructure development, and financial inclusion programs. He pointed out that the SDG index compiled by NITI Aayog shows continued national progress for 2023-24, even in less affluent states.

He attributed India’s success to key national programs such as large-scale delivery of physical and digital infrastructure, targeted national safety net programs with digital delivery to reduce fraud, enhanced women’s empowerment, and improved program delivery in underdeveloped regions. Bery also highlighted the importance of reviewing SDGs focused on poverty, hunger, environmental protection, peace, justice, and partnerships, especially given recent setbacks in some areas.

Bery noted that over 500 million Indians now benefit from cashless health insurance, with out-of-pocket health expenses dropping from 63% in 2014 to 39% in 2024. Additionally, India provided free food supplies to over 800 million citizens during the pandemic, making it the largest food security program in the world.

He also emphasized India’s significant investments in renewable energy and the decarbonization of its economy, despite having one of the lowest per capita emissions globally. Bery concluded by stressing the importance of partnerships in achieving SDG 17, especially during India’s G20 Presidency.

India Strengthens Ties with Pacific Partners: S Jaishankar

July 15, 2024, 11:49 am

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a message of solidarity and cooperation during the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to fund four community development projects in the Marshall Islands.

Congratulating the Marshall Islands

Jaishankar began by acknowledging the recent successes of the Marshall Islands, including hosting the 10th Micronesian Games and participating in the 10th International Day of Yoga celebrations.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Reflecting on the longstanding relationship between India and the Marshall Islands, Jaishankar highlighted the expansion of bilateral ties under the Forum of India Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).

Prime Minister Modi’s Commitment

Jaishankar recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the Pacific islands during the third FIPIC summit, emphasizing India’s responsibility to support their sustainable development.

Addressing Common Challenges

Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to addressing common challenges faced by Pacific island nations, such as climate change, natural disasters, poverty alleviation, and healthcare.

Details of the MoU

The MoU signed will enable the implementation of four community development projects in the Marshall Islands, including proposals for desalination units and dialysis machines.

India’s Priorities in Cooperation

Jaishankar outlined India’s priorities in its cooperation with Pacific island nations, stressing areas such as healthcare, infrastructure development, renewable energy, and capacity building.

Conclusion

Concluding his address, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening its engagement with Indo-Pacific partners. “India is always ready to do more with our Indo-Pacific partners,” he said.

Role of AI in addressing climate change

June 28, 2023, 10:36 pm

Climate change is a serious and pressing issue that affects every living being on our planet. As temperatures rise, ice caps melt, and extreme weather events become more frequent, it’s clear that we need to take immediate action to mitigate and adapt to the changing climate.

One of the tools at our disposal is artificial intelligence (AI), a technology that has the potential to revolutionize our approach to environmental challenges. Let’s explore the role of AI in addressing climate change and how it can help us create a sustainable future.

AI to the Rescue: Saving the Planet with Bits and Bytes

Artificial intelligence might not be able to fly in like a superhero and save the day physically. Still, it certainly has the potential to make a significant impact in our fight against climate change.

With its ability to process vast amounts of data and analyze complex patterns, AI can help us gain valuable insights into climate trends, predict future scenarios, and develop effective strategies to combat global warming.

Nudging People Towards Eco-Friendly Habits: AI as the Green Conscience

Let’s face it: humans are creatures of habit, and changing our behaviour isn’t always easy. But fear not because AI is here to lend a helping hand or a gentle nudge in the right direction. We can personalize and target interventions to encourage eco-friendly habits by leveraging AI-powered algorithms.

From smart thermostats that optimize energy usage to apps that gamify recycling, AI can be our green conscience, making sustainable choices more appealing and accessible.

The Power of Big Data: Unleashing AI’s Analytical Prowess

AI thrives on data, and fortunately, we have an abundance of it regarding climate change. From satellite imagery to weather data, AI algorithms can crunch numbers faster than you can say “carbon footprint.”

By analyzing this wealth of information, AI can identify patterns, detect trends, and provide accurate climate projections. This knowledge is crucial for policymakers, enabling them to make informed decisions and implement effective policies to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Predicting the Unpredictable: AI and Climate Modeling

Climate modelling is like playing a game of weather chess, where each move has far-reaching consequences. AI can help us become grandmasters by improving the accuracy and precision of climate models.

By feeding historical data into AI algorithms, we can train models to predict future climate scenarios with greater reliability. This can aid in forecasting extreme weather events, such as hurricanes or droughts, giving us time to prepare and respond effectively.

Smart Grids and Smarter Energy Management: AI’s Electrical Revolution

The energy sector plays a crucial role in climate change mitigation. AI can help transform our power grids into smart grids, which optimize energy generation, distribution, and consumption.

Through real-time monitoring and data analysis, AI can balance supply and demand, integrate renewable energy sources seamlessly, and even detect and prevent energy wastage. With AI’s assistance, our electrical systems can become more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Protecting Biodiversity: AI as Nature’s Guardian

Climate change poses a significant threat to biodiversity, with countless species facing extinction. AI can step in as nature’s guardian by aiding in wildlife conservation efforts. By analyzing data from drones, satellites, and remote sensors, AI can monitor ecosystems, track endangered species, and identify potential areas for habitat restoration.

Also, AI-powered algorithms can help combat illegal wildlife trade and assist in the identification and prevention of environmental crimes.

The Future is Green: AI’s Role in Sustainable Development

As we strive for a more sustainable future, AI can be a powerful ally in achieving our goals. By integrating AI into sectors such as transportation, agriculture, and urban planning, we can create

greener, more efficient systems. From autonomous electric vehicles to precision farming techniques, AI can help reduce carbon emissions, optimize resource usage, and promote sustainable development worldwide.

Bottom Line

AI can potentially play a crucial role in our fight against climate change. With its analytical prowess, AI can help us gain valuable insights, predict future scenarios, and develop effective strategies. By nudging individuals towards eco-friendly habits and optimizing energy management, AI can contribute to reducing our carbon footprint.

Further, AI can aid in climate modelling, wildlife conservation, and sustainable development. So, let’s embrace the power of AI and work together to create a greener, more sustainable future.

After all, as humans, it’s in our best interest to save the planet—we don’t have a Planet B, and Elon Musk’s rockets are not a viable backup plan (yet).

IIPS inaugurates ‘International Conference’ on labour and sustainable development in Asia

June 2, 2023, 10:55 am

The International Institute for Population Science (IIPS) in Mumbai is home to the South Asia Centre for Labour Mobility and Migrants (SALAM), which today inaugurated its inaugural international conference on “Labour and Sustainable Development in Asia: Opportunities, Challenges, and Way Forward.”The Centre was conceived by the three UN agencies along with one leading institution from each of the seven countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, India, the USA, and the Netherlands. The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries from the government of India, leading institutes, and organizations from India and abroad. Prof. K. C. Das, Convener, SALAM, and Head of the Department of Migration & Urban Studies, IIPS welcomed the dignitaries and briefed about the SALAM and the structure of the conference in terms of different plenary (three), poster(one), and technical (fourteen) sessions. Then the event was formally inaugurated with the welcome address of Prof. K.S. James, Director and Senior Professor, IIPS, Mumbai, and all the dignitaries lightened the lamp. He said scholars have studied migration through different perspectives like demography, sociology, history, and economics. However, he emphasized the need to study labour migration through a multi-disciplinary approach. Prof. James also elaborated that such a conference is relevant and timely when rapid changes is happening not only in demography but also in the field of labour migration. Dino Corell, Labour Migration Specialist, ILO, delivered the keynote address and appreciated the SALAM Centre for bringing together experts, researchers, and academicians to present and disseminate knowledge and promote evidence-based migration governance in the South Asian region. Corell pointed out that labour migration leads to risks and challenges regarding displacement, forced migration, trafficking, health hazards, and other decent work deficits. However, it can be dealt with through the proper framework of governance, and the SALAM Centre is working in this direction. Sri J. K. Banthia (IAS), former Chief Secretary, Govt. of Maharashtra, chief guest, emphasized that South Asia always needed a Centre like SALAM, which can enhance capacity building to formulate evidence-based policy to protect migrants’ rights in South Asia. He mentioned how Mumbai city has evolved with the considerable contribution of migrants. He also emphasised to see the historical background of the country to understand the migration trajectories. Banthia went on to say that different initiatives have been made by the centre and state governments in the wake of COVID-19, with eShram serving as the greatest illustration. He claims that since migrants lack identification credentials, the identity problem is always a major concern for them. The government has made a few moves in this area and found some alleviation. Nevertheless, it can take some time to find a solution to the complete immigration documentation issue. Prof. C.R. Abrar (RMMRU), Prof. S. Irudaya Rajan (IIMAD), Nansiri Iamsuks (UN Women), Prof. Sayeed Unisa (IIPS), Dr. Bhaswati Das (JNU), Prof. D.P. Singh (TISS), among many others, were among the dignitaries who attended the opening session. During these three days, more than 120 researchers from various states in India and other nations will present their papers on diverse topics.