MoEFCC Hosts Him-CONNECT at WSDS 2026

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is organising ‘Him-CONNECT’ as part of TERI’s World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) from 25–27 February 2026 in New Delhi. The platform aims to connect researchers working in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) with start-ups, investors and policymakers to facilitate large-scale application of research outcomes. The event will be open to visitors on 26 and 27 February.

Him-CONNECT will showcase over 24 technologies, prototypes, patents and pilot projects developed under the National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS).

Bridging Research and Enterprise

The initiative seeks to address the gap between innovation and implementation. Although NMHS has supported numerous locally relevant and science-based solutions, many require structured pathways for commercialisation and deployment.

Him-CONNECT creates a collaborative ecosystem linking innovators with over 100 start-ups, incubators, investors and policymakers. The objective is to enable funding access, pilot deployment and industry partnerships for scaling technologies in fragile mountain ecosystems.

Institutions and Innovations on Display

Innovators from leading institutions including IITs, CSIR laboratories, Central Agricultural University, NITs, SKUAST-K, University of Kashmir, TERI-Guwahati, Kumaon University and the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment are participating.

Key technologies include eco-friendly road construction methods, hydroponic farming using treated wastewater, pine needle-based wastewater treatment systems, decentralised wastewater reuse models, low-cost mineralised water purifiers, sericulture waste-based burn ointments and yak milk cottage cheese processing solutions.

Focus on Climate Resilience and Sustainable Growth

Drawing on NMHS’s decade-long support to over 250 action-oriented initiatives, the platform highlights field-validated and market-ready solutions in water security, climate adaptation, renewable energy, waste-to-wealth, sustainable construction and nature-based livelihoods.

Important Facts for Exams

• Him-CONNECT is organised by MoEFCC under NMHS.
• It is part of TERI’s World Sustainable Development Summit.
• The Indian Himalayan Region acts as a major climate regulator for Asia.
• NMHS supports research on conservation and sustainable resource management.

Strategic Importance of the Indian Himalayan Region

The Indian Himalayan Region is a complex mountain system vital for biodiversity, water security and climate regulation. It supports millions in upland and downstream areas. By aligning science, finance and policy, Him-CONNECT seeks to accelerate climate resilience, promote green growth and position India as a leader in solution-oriented climate action and South-South cooperation.