A Pre-COP31 Press Dialogue focusing on the significance of the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) for Maharashtra was organised jointly by INECC Foundation, TERRE Policy Centre, Youth for Unity and Voluntary Action (YUVA), and SCINDeA at Patrakar Bhavan, Pune.
The dialogue aimed to bring the global climate conversation closer to Maharashtra by highlighting the state's climate-related experiences, challenges and priorities. The discussion emphasised the importance of translating global climate commitments into meaningful action at the local level and ensuring that regional realities are adequately represented in national and international climate negotiations.
The dialogue was addressed by Dr. Priyadarshini Karve, President, INECC Foundation; Dr. Vinita H. Apte, Founder Director, TERRE Policy Centre and India Country Director, International Ocean Institute, Malta; and Dulari Parmar, Project Lead – Climate Justice, Youth for Unity and Voluntary Action (YUVA). Mr. Myron Mendes, Executive Director, Indian Network on Ethics and Climate Change (INECC), Mr. Mahesh Lade, Energy Expert, BAIF, Pune, was also present.
The speakers highlighted the importance of connecting international climate policies with ground-level realities. The discussion focused on climate justice, community participation, environmental sustainability and the need for inclusive climate action. The dialogue also provided an opportunity to discuss Maharashtra's specific concerns and priorities in the context of the upcoming COP31 conference, scheduled to be held in Antalya, Türkiye, in November 2026..
The speakers emphasised that climate action must go beyond international commitments and result in practical initiatives that address local environmental challenges and benefit communities. They also underlined the importance of collaboration among civil society organisations, institutions, policymakers and citizens in strengthening climate resilience.
The press dialogue concluded with an interaction with media representatives, providing an opportunity to exchange views on climate change, Maharashtra's priorities and India's role in the global climate discussion.
Through this joint initiative, the participating organisations reiterated their commitment to strengthening public awareness and bringing local perspectives into wider climate policy discussions ahead of COP31.
