The United Nations has designated the first Monday in October each year as the World Habitat Day. The idea is to reflect on the state of human settlements and the necessity of adequate shelter for all. It is also intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of human habitat.
For this year’s celebrations UN-HABITAT has chosen the theme “Cities and Climate Change” because climate change is fast becoming the preeminent development challenge of the 21st century. Indeed, no-one today can really foresee the predicament in which a town or city will find itself in 10, 20 or 30 years time. In this new urban era with most of humanity now living in towns and cities, one must bear in mind that the greatest impacts of disasters resulting from climate change begin and end in cities. Cities too have a great influence on climate change. This gives us a compelling set of opportunities because cities with their people, industries, seats of learning, culture and infrastructure can provide the best solutions when it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving coping mechanisms and reducing vulnerability to the impacts of climate disruption.
The Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation is organizing celebrations at National Bal Bhawan, New Delhi on 3rd October, 2011 to commemorate the Day.
Minister of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation and Culture Kumari Selja would deliver the World Habitat Day Address on the occasion.
Secretaries in the States / UTs dealing with Housing and Human Settlement, Mayors / Municipal Commissioners and other Dignitaries will also be present during the celebrations.
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