ICSUF 2027

India’s cities and regions are undergoing rapid transformation, driven by urbanisation, evolving mobility patterns, infrastructure demands, climate risks, digital innovation and the need for inclusive growth. The International Conference on Sustainable Urban Futures (ICSUF 2027), organised by the Department of Architecture and Regional Planning (ARP), IIT Kharagpur, in association with CoE-UPD (Centre of Excellence in Urban Planning and Design), brings together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, industry leaders and students to explore integrated approaches to sustainable urban development.

Focusing on six interconnected domains—from urban planning and infrastructure to sustainable mobility, governance, AI, climate resilience and inclusive housing—ICSUF 2027 aims to bridge research, policy and implementation. Aligned with India’s urban development priorities and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the conference seeks to foster collaboration, share innovative ideas and shape cities that are sustainable, resilient, inclusive and future-ready.

It is a matter of great pride and pleasure for IIT Kharagpur to host the International Conference on Sustainable Urban Futures (ICSUF 2027) as part of the Institute’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Seventy-five years of IIT Kharagpur represent a remarkable journey of academic excellence, technological advancement, innovation and service to the nation. From its inception as the first IIT of independent India, the Institute has continuously evolved in response to the changing needs of society, while remaining committed to the creation and dissemination of knowledge for national development.

The future of India will be closely shaped by the future of its cities and regions. Rapid urbanisation presents complex challenges related to infrastructure, mobility, housing, water and sanitation, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, governance and the responsible application of emerging technologies. Addressing these challenges requires interdisciplinary collaboration that brings together engineering, architecture, planning, management, social sciences, policy and technology.