Bhubaneswar, Oct 22: Odisha is set to host two major national platforms on urban transformation—the 19th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference and Exhibition and the second National Urban Conclave—in Bhubaneswar.

Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department, today said the 19th edition of the UMI Conference is being hosted for the first time in Eastern India, with Bhubaneswar as the venue.

The National Urban Conclave, first held in New Delhi, is being organised for the second time alongside UMI, providing a common platform for deliberations on the evolving priorities of urban India.

Padhee expressed pride in Odisha’s partnership with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, in hosting these prestigious national events.

Describing the twin events as an important opportunity for learning and collaboration, Padhee said they would facilitate the exchange of ideas, showcase successful practices and encourage meaningful discussions on the challenges and opportunities of urbanisation.

Policymakers, administrators, urban transport professionals, original equipment manufacturers , academicians, exhibitors and other stakeholders from across the country are expected to participate in the deliberations.

Emphasising the importance of inclusive participation, she said that students from colleges across Odisha have also been invited to attend the sessions. Their participation, alongside that of professionals and experts, is expected to encourage fresh perspectives, knowledge-sharing and innovative approaches to addressing urban challenges.

The 19th UMI Conference and Exhibition will be held on October 23 and 24, while the second National Urban Conclave will take place on October 24 and 25, 2026, at Mayfair Sanctuary, Bhubaneswar. Organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, with the support of the Government of Odisha, the events will deliberate on key aspects of urban development, including mobility, housing, water supply, sanitation, infrastructure and municipal governance.

The State has planned a range of initiatives to showcase Odisha’s urban development journey and achievements. These include a dedicated pavilion of the CRUT, the proposed launch of PM e-Bus Sewa, the release of key planning and public-space handbooks, including the ANKUR Handbook, and a sand art installation by renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik. Cleanliness and beautification drives undertaken by the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation and the Bhubaneswar Development Authority will further enhance the city’s preparations for the events.

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The visiting delegates will also have opportunities to experience Odisha’s rich heritage, culture and entrepreneurial spirit through heritage walks, cycle trails and showcases of handlooms, handicrafts, Mission Shakti initiatives and Koraput Coffee.

The twin events are expected to strengthen inter-State cooperation, promote the sharing of knowledge and innovations, and foster partnerships among urban stakeholders. They will provide an important platform to advance the shared vision of building cities that are more accessible, inclusive, sustainable and liveable.