Amidst the present scenario of unprecedented growth and change across all levels of urban settlements, especially in our part of the world, the need for increased networking and dialogue between the participants of such change becomes imperative. The emerging directions of change and developmental choices as witnessed all around us today raises immense challenges and possibilities towards a dynamic and contributory role of the urban design profession within different societal conditions. It is at this significant juncture that the Institute of Urban Designers India (IUDI) as a national level association of urban design professionals, academicians and practitioners operate.

IUDI holds various conferences, meets, exhibitions, lectures and congresses to discussion and exchange views and for the exposition of any matters affecting or relating to the practice and/or theory of Urban Design or any allied subject.

This year with immense pleasure IUDI announces the Third Urban Design National Conference (IUDI NATCON 2025) to be held in Taj Bengal, Kolkata, West Bengal, India on 07-08 MAR 2025. The conference aims to bring together practicing architects and urban design professionals, students, academician, bureaucrats and elected representatives to discuss and deliberate on ways, means and processes to make Indian cities resilient to the emerging climate crisis. The conference also provides oppurtunity to its participants to networking and develop professional relationships. IUDI Natcon 2025 will bring togather over 350 delegates, speakers and thinkers of National and International repute to share their experiences and thoughts on Cities in Transition. For 2 days participants of the conference will discuss and diliberate on the theme and the way forward for our cities.

The upcoming IUDI NATCON’25 conference, organized by the IUDI East Zone, will take place in Kolkata, a city renowned for its rich historical layers, vibrant cultural diversity, and valuable ecological assets, all intricately woven into its urban fabric. As Indian cities continue to experience rapid and intense urban growth, this conference provides a platform to address the critical need for designing urban spaces that are accessible, resilient, and inclusive. The event will emphasize sub themes such as equitable access to resources, the preservation and celebration of cultural identity, and the integration of sustainable development practices into the framework of urban planning.