New Delhi: Reinforcing its commitment to environmentally responsible development and heritage conservation, the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) organised the National Conference on Goan Architecture & Sustainability at The Leela Palace, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. The conference brought together policymakers, architects, urban planners, sustainability experts, industry leaders and international representatives to discuss strategies for building climate-resilient and heritage-sensitive infrastructure.
The conference was inaugurated by Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa, along with Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and other distinguished dignitaries. The inaugural session featured ceremonial lamp lighting followed by keynote addresses focusing on sustainable urban development and the preservation of Goa’s architectural heritage.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Pramod Sawant said Goa’s architectural legacy continues to shape the state’s future development. He emphasised that the government remains committed to building resilient, inclusive and world-class infrastructure while preserving Goa’s unique cultural identity. He added that the conference provides a collaborative platform for architects, planners, policymakers and sustainability experts to exchange ideas and promote climate-resilient, heritage-sensitive solutions for future development.
The day-long conference featured four thematic panel discussions covering Goan Architecture & Contextual Design, Heritage Conservation & Sustainable Habitat, Energy Efficiency & Green Building Certification, and Climate-Smart Materials & Sustainable Construction Practices.
Experts from leading national and international institutions, including TERI, Charles Correa Foundation, INTACH, GRIHA Council, World Bank, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Centre for Science and Environment, Auroville Earth Institute, the European Union, the Royal Danish Embassy, and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, shared insights on sustainable urban planning, green technologies and policy interventions for resilient infrastructure.
Alongside the conference, GSIDC organised a dedicated GoVAN products exhibition, showcasing locally developed products that highlighted Goa’s innovation, craftsmanship and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Delegates had the opportunity to explore products reflecting the state’s commitment to sustainable and locally driven development.
The conference concluded with a valedictory session summarising key recommendations and discussions, followed by a networking session that encouraged collaboration among government representatives, architects, researchers, industry stakeholders and policymakers.
The National Conference reaffirmed Goa’s vision of emerging as a national leader in sustainable infrastructure, heritage conservation and climate-resilient urban development, promoting collaboration, innovation and knowledge-sharing to achieve long-term sustainable growth.