Baku: The India Pavilion at the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku was officially inaugurated on 18 May 2026 by Ambassador Abhay Kumar, APA reports. The pavilion, established by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under the theme 'India's Urban Transformation: Housing a Billion Dreams', highlights India's journey in urban transformation. It focuses on how various initiatives at national, state, and city levels are turning the aspirations of a billion people into reality through innovative urban policies, programs, and partnerships.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Ambassador Abhay Kumar emphasized India's dedication to building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities during the inauguration. The India Pavilion serves as a platform for delegates to learn, discuss, collaborate, and exchange innovative ideas among global partners and urban stakeholders. Ambassador Kumar engaged with exhibitors and participants on urban development topics.
The pavilion is a premier showcase of India's urban development vision, offering insights into key flagship initiatives like Housing for All (PMAY), Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), AMRUT, Smart Cities Mission, and National Urban Livelihood Mission, including PM SVANidhi. These initiatives highlight integrated approaches addressing housing, infrastructure, livelihoods, and resilience, while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda.
The exhibition space features curated displays demonstrating how cities are localizing SDGs through innovation, data-driven governance, climate action, and community participation. Interactive installations engage visitors, inviting them to share ideas for inclusive and resilient cities, contributing to a collective vision of future urban development.
The main objective of the India Pavilion is to showcase how India has created an enabling ecosystem influencing multiple stakeholders to develop future urban structures. This approach can aid in effectively planning and managing urban challenges, ensuring Indian cities advance towards spatial, social, and economic inclusivity.