The 11th edition of the International Sustainability Conference (SUSCON-XI) was organised by IIM Shillong on the theme ‘Climate Positive World’, recently.
Over the course of the conference, participants from India, Hungary, the USA and Finland shared their research and prototypes, with an overwhelming response of 301 submissions, out of which 118 papers were selected after a rigorous review process.
SUSCON has evolved into a global platform for dialogue over the past 15 years, uniting stakeholders from academia, industry, government and civil society. Reflecting IIM Shillong’s commitment to sustainability, the conference has featured prominent figures such as Bharat Ratna APJ Abdul Kalam, Padma Bhushan Sundarlal Bahuguna and Jadav Payeng, the “Forest Man of India.”
The chief guest, Padma Shri Shyam Sundar Paliwal, delivered an address on the importance of self-reliance and sustainability in rural communities. Paliwal, who was awarded the Padma Shri for his work, shared the inspiring story of his initiatives in Piplantri, where 111 trees are planted for every girl born in the village, as a symbol of growth and empowerment. His work not only addresses environmental conservation but also promotes girl-child education, reduces dowry practices and fosters community resilience. He emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to sustainability, integrating environmental, social and economic aspects to create self-sufficient, empowered communities.
In his address, Prabodha Acharya, Chief Sustainability Officer at the JSW Group, delivered a keynote address that focused on three mega-trends impacting sustainability: nature, inequality and diversity. Drawing from his vast experience in the corporate sector, Acharya highlighted the urgent need for businesses to adopt sustainable practices and manage the impacts of their actions on society and the environment. He encouraged the next generation of leaders, particularly the students attending the conference, to think critically about their roles in addressing these issues through their careers and leadership positions.
