On January 14, 2022, Vasudha Foundation in collaboration with the State Knowledge Management Centre on Climate Change (SKMCCC) of EPCO, Government of Madhya Pradesh and with support from Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation launched the “Climate Change and Environment Action Plans” of Bhopal and Indore districts.

The Action Plan takes into account the district level baseline studies on climate variability and projections, emissions profile, budgetary analysis to estimate climate expenditure and such other crucial aspects. It also brings forth a comprehensive basket of recommendations for various climate relevant sectors and environmental issues of the districts, along with case examples and estimated mitigation potential.

The launch event was chaired by Shri Rishav Gupta, IAS, CEO, Indore Smart City Development Limited and several senior government officials along with representatives from academia and CSOs were in attendance. More than 65 participants attended the event either in-person or through online mode as this was a hybrid event.

Shri Lokendra Thakkar, General Manager and Coordinator, SKMCCC, EPCO, gave the welcome address and set the context for the launch. Shri Srinivas Krishnaswamy, CEO, Vasudha Foundation elaborated on the background of the CCEAP and structure of the action plans. The Action Plans were then formally launched. This was followed by a presentation on the key highlights of the action plan by Vasudha Team.

Subsequently, the floor was opened to questions and comments by attendees and the way forward was also discussed. The detailed study undertaken by Vasudha to develop these comprehensive action plans was greatly appreciated by all the participants and there was a general consensus on the need to focus more on regional level planning as highlighted in the CCEAPs.