During the inaugural session, Dr Debolina Kundu, Director-NIUA, set the context by elaborating on the UrbanShift Country Project’s activities on integrated climate action in India and highlighted the importance of capacity building events such as the UrbanShift China City Academy in bridging the gap between knowledge and practice. She emphasised NIUA’s significant role in building capacities on key urban issues through knowledge management, research, and advocacy.

Varsha Singh, Knowledge Management and Communications Specialist, presented on NIUA’s efforts to integrate nature based solutions into city development, planning, infrastructure, resilience and climate action projects. She also presented success stories and was associated with such endeavours.

The event was also attended by city official from Puducherry: Dr A. Muthamma I.A.S, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Works). She presented on the initiatives taken by the Government of Puducherry for people-centred and Nature-positive Public Spaces.

Representatives from five Asian Countries and various other organisations actively participated in sessions on 'Urban Biodiversity', and 'Green and Thriving Neighbourhoods'. The session highlighted efforts to mitigate climate challenges, promote inclusive neighbourhoods, strengthen governance, and finance urban transformation, emphasising the vital role of knowledge sharing and best practice exchange in integrated urban development.

The delegates also participated in the site visit to two model projects in Chengdu: the Sino-Singapore Innovation Park, Heartbeat Central Park, and Luxe Lakes Eco City. Participants learned how low-carbon design and high-tech innovation intersect to support both social and environmental goals. The site visit offered a living example of water-sensitive urban design, where ecological restoration, walkability, and lifestyle integration come together to shape a livable and sustainable neighbourhood.