The Institute of Town Planners India (ITPI) is organising a One-Day Seminar for Young Planners in New Delhi to commemorate World Cities Day, World Habitat Day and World Town Planning Day. Co-sponsored by the Association of Municipalities and Development Authorities (AMDA), the seminar will bring together young planning professionals, students, academics, emerging practitioners and experts to discuss contemporary urban challenges and explore innovative approaches to building inclusive, sustainable and resilient cities.
The seminar is scheduled for Friday, 30 October 2026, from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM at the Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
The three observances collectively highlight the shared responsibility of creating cities and settlements that are inclusive, resilient, sustainable and responsive to the needs of their communities. The programme will particularly emphasise the role of planning in creating equitable urban environments and strengthening the capacity of the next generation of planning professionals.
Three Key Urban Challenges
The seminar will focus on three critical themes shaping the future of metropolitan and rapidly urbanising areas.
Promoting the Right to Affordable Housing for All will examine inclusive housing and land-use planning, infrastructure provision, transport connectivity, financing mechanisms and rental policies. The discussions are expected to explore how planning frameworks can contribute to more accessible and affordable housing opportunities.
Sustainable Urban Mobility will focus on integrated approaches involving non-motorised transport (NMT), intermediate public transport (IPT) and public transport, alongside parking management and the creation of safer, cleaner and more accessible urban movement systems.
The third theme, Urban Flooding in Metro Cities, will address the growing challenge of flooding in rapidly urbanising areas. Discussions will consider integrated stormwater management, protection of natural drainage systems, improved infrastructure and resilient urban green spaces as important components of climate-responsive urban planning.
Platform for Young Planning Professionals
The seminar is designed to provide a platform for young planners and students to engage with professionals, academics and institutions, exchange ideas and discuss practical approaches to contemporary urban challenges. It also seeks to encourage dialogue between emerging planning professionals and experienced practitioners on the future direction of urban development in India.
The programme is supported by knowledge partners including the School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi; National Economic Forum, New Delhi; School of Planning and Architecture, Vijayawada; and Centre for Science and Environment, New Delhi.
With cities facing increasingly complex challenges related to housing, mobility, climate resilience and infrastructure, the seminar provides an opportunity to examine how planning can become more inclusive, integrated and responsive. By placing young planners at the centre of these conversations, the initiative aims to encourage fresh perspectives and strengthen the profession’s contribution to building sustainable cities and communities.
Event Details
Event: One-Day Seminar for Young Planners
Theme: World Cities Day, World Habitat Day & World Town Planning Day
Date: Friday, 30 October 2026
Time: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Venue: Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi
Organised by: Institute of Town Planners India (ITPI)
Co-sponsored by: Association of Municipalities and Development Authorities (AMDA)
Registration: Participants are invited to register by 25 October 2026 through the registration facility provided by the organisers.
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