Gujarat: The 11th Regional Conclave organized by GRIHA Council was held at The Leela Gandhinagar under the theme “Innovate to Act for a Climate Resilient World.” The event brought together leaders from government, industry, architecture, urban planning, academia, and engineering to discuss sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure solutions tailored for Gujarat.
The conclave is part of a nationwide series leading up to the 18th GRIHA Summit scheduled to be held in New Delhi on November 3–4, 2026.
Gujarat Government Highlights Sustainability as Foundation of Growth
The conclave was inaugurated by Pravin Gordhanji Mali, Hon’ble Minister of State for Forests and Environment, Climate Change, and Transport, Government of Gujarat.
Addressing delegates, the minister emphasized that Gujarat considers sustainability not as a limitation on development, but as the foundation of long-term economic growth.
He stated that the state’s future infrastructure projects must reflect strong climate commitments and environmentally responsible planning. The session also encouraged open interaction among delegates, sparking discussions on collaborative solutions for climate resilience and sustainable urbanization.
Government Pushes for Green Buildings Across Gujarat
The keynote address was delivered by J A Gandhi, Special Secretary of the Roads & Buildings Department, Government of Gujarat.
He highlighted the state government’s decision to ensure that all non-residential buildings at district and taluka levels are developed as green buildings through the Roads & Buildings Department. The official also stressed the importance of maintenance and operational sustainability alongside the construction of new green buildings.
Focus on Commonwealth Games 2030 and Major Gujarat Infrastructure Projects
The conclave explored several key sustainability priorities shaping Gujarat’s future development landscape.
Major Topics Discussed
- Sustainable infrastructure for the proposed Commonwealth Games 2030 in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar
- Green urban planning for GIFT City
- Climate-resilient development in Dholera Special Investment Region
- Sustainability integration in the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor
- Green strategies for highways, ports, and urban expansion
- Inclusive and universally accessible building designs
Experts and policymakers discussed how Gujarat can become a benchmark for low-carbon and climate-responsive infrastructure in India.
GRIHA Council Signs Key Sustainability MoUs
During the inaugural session, GRIHA Council signed two major Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs):
- Partnership with Carbon Registry India by NCCF
- Collaboration with CREDAI Ahmedabad GIHED
These agreements are expected to strengthen sustainable construction practices and integrate carbon accounting and carbon credit mechanisms into India’s building sector.
The collaboration with CREDAI Ahmedabad GIHED will encourage wider adoption of green-certified real estate developments through awareness programs, training initiatives, and industry engagement.
Real Estate Sector Commits to Green Urban Growth
Rajesh Vaswani, Chairman of CREDAI Ahmedabad GIHED, said the partnership reflects a shared vision for climate-resilient urban development and responsible infrastructure expansion. According to him, the collaboration aims to position Ahmedabad as a leading model for sustainable urban development in India by promoting green-certified homes, offices, and commercial projects.
Climate Change Requires Faster Action: GRIHA Council
Sanjay Seth, Vice President & CEO of GRIHA Council, highlighted the urgent need for proactive climate adaptation and sustainable growth strategies.
He noted that Gujarat has emerged as one of India’s strongest economic growth engines while simultaneously advancing climate-responsive planning and sustainable infrastructure.
Experts Highlight Gujarat’s Potential in Sustainable Innovation
Tarak Jani praised the conclave for bringing together professionals with expertise in implementing sustainability solutions in Gujarat.He emphasized that Gujarat’s entrepreneurial culture and practical approach to innovation can help mainstream green development initiatives across industries and urban projects.
Gujarati Sustainability Publications Released During Event
The conclave concluded with the launch of three Gujarati-language publications focused on:
- Sustainable Design Implementation
- Construction Management
- Operation & Maintenance Guidelines
The initiative aims to expand awareness of green building practices among local stakeholders and professionals across Gujarat.
GRIHA Felicitation Ceremony Honors Green Building Projects
The event ended with a special felicitation ceremony recognizing projects awarded 4-star and 5-star GRIHA ratings for excellence in sustainable building practices.
The recognition highlighted the growing adoption of environmentally responsible construction standards across Gujarat.
About GRIHA Council
GRIHA Council is India’s premier green building rating and sustainability assessment organization. The council promotes environmentally responsible construction practices, energy efficiency, climate resilience, and sustainable urban development through rating systems, policy advocacy, training, and research initiatives across the country.
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