
The Himalayan region, a critical ecological and cultural frontier, faces unprecedented threats from climate change. Rapid glacial retreat, altered precipitation patterns, increasing frequency of landslides and floods, biodiversity loss, and water resource stress are transforming its landscapes and livelihoods. These impacts are magnified for vulnerable mountain communities-particularly indigenous peoples, women, and subsistence resource users, whose well-being is deeply tied to fragile ecosystems. In this context, sustainability is not merely an environmental imperative but a socio-economic and cultural necessity. This session seeks to critically appraise emerging climate policies targeting the Himalayan region, assessing their adequacy in addressing complex sustainability challenges. It will explore how climate governance spanning international commitments, national action plans, state-level policies, and community led adaptation strategies can be better aligned to the unique vulnerabilities and strengths of mountain ecosystems. The discussion will emphasize the need for evidence-based, inclusive, and adaptive policy frameworks that integrate scientific data, indigenous knowledge, and local governance systems. The session will also examine the intersection of policy with grassroots action, highlighting models where participatory governance, traditional ecological practices, and modern climate science converge. Special focus will be placed on policy approaches that not only mitigate risks but also build long-term resilience through sustainable resource management, livelihood diversification, and ecosystem restoration. Ultimately, this session aims to generate actionable recommendations for policymakers, civil society, and local communities, fostering a shared vision for climate-resilient, just, and sustainable development in the Himalayan region.

Former Member of the Indian Forest Service and Former Chairman, Expert Appraisal Committee (INFRA 2), MoEF&CC, Government of India.

State Program Lead – Action for Climate & Environment (ACE), UNDP.

Board Member, Indian Youth Climate Network.

Associate Dean (Research), School of Law, UPES.
Email: a.pandey@ddn.upes.ac.in
Date/Time: 10 September from 11:30 PM to 1:30 PM
Welcome Address: Shikha Dimri, Associate Dean (Research), School of Law, UPES.
Dr. Promode Kant – IFS (Retd), Member, Core Advisory Group on Environment, Climate Change & Human Rights, NHRC; Former Chairman, EAC (Infrastructure 2), MoEF&CC.
Dr. Pradeep Mehta – State Program Lead, Action for Climate & Environment (ACE), UNDP.
Niharika Kapoor – Board Member, Indian Youth Climate Network (Co-Chair).
