New Delhi: As India’s cities expand at an unprecedented pace, so do the challenges—and opportunities—of urban living. This June, New Delhi will host a transformative gathering of voices, perspectives, and solutions at Urban Adda 2025, a three-day conference taking place from June 3 (World Bicycle Day) to June 5 (World Environment Day) at the India Habitat Centre.

Organised by the Raahgiri Foundation, in partnership with the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) and GuruJal, with support from Nagarro, Urban Adda 2025 is not just another conference; it’s a dynamic blend of policy dialogue, creative expression, and grassroots engagement. It aims to paint a hopeful, actionable picture of the cities we all deserve.

Sarika Panda Bhatt, Co-Founder and Trustee of the Raahgiri Foundation and Director, Nagarro said, “With Urban Adda, we wish to paint a picture of the cities we all deserve – vibrant, safe, breathable, resilient, full of human connection. These cities aren’t a distant dream, they can be here and now, we just want to show what’s possible when we put people and nature in the foreground of our narrative.”

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A Cross-Sectoral Dialogue: Leaders, Experts, and Changemakers at Urban Adda

The event brings together a remarkable roster of speakers, including:

• Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, will emphasise youth leadership in building sustainable cities.
• Smt. Rekha Gupta, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi, will share insights on people-centric urban planning.
• Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, Hon’ble Transport Minister of Delhi, is focusing on inclusive mobility solutions.
• Shri Rao Narbir Singh, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister, Haryana, addressing electric vehicles, water conservation, and street design.
• Shri Rajyavardhan Rathore, Hon’ble Minister, Government of Rajasthan, highlighting culture and community in urban life.

The platform also features thought leaders like Prof. Geetam Tiwari (IIT-Delhi), Dr. Sujit Bajpayee (MOEFCC), Mr. Rajesh Verma (CAQM), and Ms. Kalpana Viswanath (Safetipin), bringing a rich tapestry of knowledge and experience.

Manas Human, Co-Founder & CEO, Nagarro, commented, “We at Nagarro believe in the power of human ingenuity to solve complex challenges. Nagarro is proud to support Urban Adda as it creates a space for these essential connections and conversations, paving the way for more liveable and intelligent city ecosystems. Engaging communities and technology is the first step towards meaningful change.”

Blending Art, Youth, and Policy at Urban Adda

Urban Adda 2025 stands out for its integration of art and youth voices at the heart of urban conversations. Sagar Singh’s art installations, interactive workshops, and a dedicated Youth Adda will empower young participants to shape their cities. The Urban Adda Film Festival (UAFF-25) on June 4th invites short films that tackle themes like climate resilience, urban pollution, and community solutions, presented by actor Pooja Bedi.

Amit Bhatt, India Managing Director, ICCT added, “Clean transport is necessary to build cities that breathe, thrive, and survive. Vehicular emissions are among the biggest threats to urban health and climate stability. If we’re serious about sustainable cities, the transition to zero-emission mobility is important.”

Day-by-Day Highlights of Urban Adda

• June 3 | Gati & Grace: A celebration of mobility and access on World Bicycle Day, featuring a 100+ cyclist cyclothon.
• June 4 | Samadhan & Spark: A focus on creative solutions to urban challenges like waste, gender, transport, and climate, culminating in UAFF-25.
• June 5 | Kal ki Soch, Aaj ka Sankalp: A commitment to action on World Environment Day, aligning with SDG 11 and beyond.

Why It Matters

With over 50% of India’s population projected to live in cities by 2047, Urban Adda 2025 arrives at a critical moment. It’s a space where policymakers, activists, youth, and citizens can come together to imagine and begin building cities that are walkable, breathable, equitable, and vibrant.

Shubhi Kesarwani, Founder & CEO, GuruJal, said, “A day without water isn’t just hard to imagine- it’s a harsh reality for millions. At Urban Adda, we’re turning awareness into action, building cities where every drop is valued, and clean water is a right, not a privilege.”

Join the Movement

Registration is free. You sign up here – Register here.

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