The Somaiya Sustainability Dialogue 2026

Event Details

Somaiya Vidyavihar University, founded in 2019 and rooted in the 84-year legacy of Somaiya Vidyavihar, stands committed to the pursuit of knowledge and societal transformation. Guided by the motto ज्ञानादेव तु कैवल्यम् (“from knowledge alone, liberation”), the university seeks to nurture critical thinking, responsible action, and holistic development. In alignment with this vision, CASCADE (Centre for Achieving Sustainable Climate Action, Development and Engagement) presents its flagship annual event — the Somaiya Sustainability Dialogue 2026.
 

Envisioned as a recurring platform for thought leadership, interdisciplinary exchange, citizen science and collaborative problem-solving, the Somaiya Sustainability Dialogue brings together academics, policymakers, practitioners, and students to deliberate on the most pressing issues of sustainability. The Dialogue reflects the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of environmental awareness, ethical citizenship, and sustainable innovation within and beyond campus.

These Dialogues—rooted in India’s context, heritage, and culture—are more than conversations. They are spaces where communities, experts, and participants come together to imagine and contribute new possibilities, co-design interventions, foster sustainable innovation, and enable green transitions and circular design. Through these ‘Dialogues/Saṁvāda,’ we aim to nurture awareness and build interdisciplinary, cross-cultural teams. The outcomes are not just tangible—community project interventions, innovations, and policy inputs—but also intangible: stronger networks, shared values, and a collective mindset ready to drive change.
 

Theme 2026: Human–Animal–Nature Interaction

The 2026 edition focuses on the vital interdependence between humans, animals, and the natural world — relationships increasingly strained by rapid urbanisation, habitat loss, and climate instability. The theme aims to deepen public understanding of these interconnected systems and to inspire actionable pathways for coexistence, resilience, and sustainable futures.