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The Sustainable Development Goals in India
India is critical in determining the success of the SDGs, globally. At the UN Sustainable Development Summit in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted, “Sustainable development of one-sixth of humanity will be of great consequence to the world and our beautiful planet. It will be a world of fewer challenges and greater hope; and, more confident of its success”. NITI Aayog, the Government of India’s premier think tank, has been entrusted with the task of coordinating the SDGs, mapping schemes related to the SDGs and their targets, and identifying lead and supporting ministries for each target. In addition, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has been leading discussions for developing national indicators for the SDGs. State governments are key to India’s progress on the SDGs as they are best placed to ‘put people first’ and to ensuring that ‘no one is left behind’. The UN Country Team in India supports NITI Aayog, Union ministries and state governments in their efforts to address the interconnectedness of the goals, to ensure that no one is left behind and to advocate for adequate financing to achieve the SDGs.
Story
29 October 2026
A fitter United Nations for a rapidly changing world
“We don’t want a world where might is right and only the big countries decide everything”
“Factors responsible for bringing us closer have been weaponised to drive us apart”
“What does reform really mean?”
“Empathy alone cannot solve structural problems”
These were some of the diverse talking points and perspectives raised by young changemakers and former and current leaders of the United Nations at a public dialogue in New Delhi on the future of the United Nations and the multilateral system. Participants examined the role and effectiveness of the United Nations at a time when geopolitical pressures, climate change, and unchecked advancement of Artificial Intelligence are redrawing global contours. Countries can achieve more when we work together, UN India Resident Coordinator Stefan Priesner told the gathering at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, and lauded key global achievements of the United Nations across areas of development, public health, humanitarian assistance and environmental protection since its founding. "The United Nations is more relevant than ever before in a world that is growing more interconnected and interdependent every week. Reform is difficult because of the diverse national interests involved but it cannot cloud the vision and the importance of the UN”."We want more multilateralism and we want better multilateralism," Ambassador of Norway to India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and the Maldives May-Elin Stener said, highlighting the new initiative led by Norway and Finland to call for stronger control of frontier AI models as an illustration of the power of the multilateral system to tackle complex global challenges.
“Is there any other organization that can bring all the people together, every country in the world, in the interest of our common humanity?” Member of Parliament Dr. Shashi Tharoor asked the audience. “We have to make the best of the United Nations that we have despite its limitations,” he said as he spoke of the United Nations response to global crises across his 29-year-long career with the organization, including his time at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and as Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information. “Multilateralism gives countries a voice and allows us to contribute to decision-making and problem-solving at a global scale,” High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India Mahishini Colonne said, citing the timely international support that helped Sri Lanka navigate the 2022 economic crisis as an example of multilateral cooperation in action.
Young changemakers who work closely with UN agencies in India showcased their ideas, innovations, and efforts to empower communities and drive inclusive development. Akashdeep Bansal, UNDP Youth Co:Lab champion and IIT Delhi alumnus, spoke of his dream of an equitable and accessible digital future as he showcased his entrepreneurial venture SaralX, which converts content into compatible digital formats for persons with vision impairment. “Who gets access to opportunities? Whose experiences are shaping the decisions that follow?” Anisha Kisku, a UN Volunteer and Adi Yuva Fellow with UNFPA who works with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs asked the audience, posing a timely reminder on maximising opportunities for young people from diverse communities and lived realities.Raginee Mohanty, from the YuWaah at UNICEF India-backed National Youth Climate Consortium, spoke about her work helming the Dr STAT - The Green Bandage Project, which reimagines first aid to reduce biomedical waste and empower sanitation workers.
The public dialogue concluded the India leg of the week-long United Nations Day celebrations of the 81st anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945. “Humanity’s future depends on our ability to work together to advance peace, development and human rights… Let’s work to strengthen the United Nations to best serve people and meet the challenges of our time,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in his last message marking UN Day as the head of the organization.
- Written by Blassy Boben Jose
“Factors responsible for bringing us closer have been weaponised to drive us apart”
“What does reform really mean?”
“Empathy alone cannot solve structural problems”
These were some of the diverse talking points and perspectives raised by young changemakers and former and current leaders of the United Nations at a public dialogue in New Delhi on the future of the United Nations and the multilateral system. Participants examined the role and effectiveness of the United Nations at a time when geopolitical pressures, climate change, and unchecked advancement of Artificial Intelligence are redrawing global contours. Countries can achieve more when we work together, UN India Resident Coordinator Stefan Priesner told the gathering at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, and lauded key global achievements of the United Nations across areas of development, public health, humanitarian assistance and environmental protection since its founding. "The United Nations is more relevant than ever before in a world that is growing more interconnected and interdependent every week. Reform is difficult because of the diverse national interests involved but it cannot cloud the vision and the importance of the UN”."We want more multilateralism and we want better multilateralism," Ambassador of Norway to India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and the Maldives May-Elin Stener said, highlighting the new initiative led by Norway and Finland to call for stronger control of frontier AI models as an illustration of the power of the multilateral system to tackle complex global challenges.
“Is there any other organization that can bring all the people together, every country in the world, in the interest of our common humanity?” Member of Parliament Dr. Shashi Tharoor asked the audience. “We have to make the best of the United Nations that we have despite its limitations,” he said as he spoke of the United Nations response to global crises across his 29-year-long career with the organization, including his time at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and as Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information. “Multilateralism gives countries a voice and allows us to contribute to decision-making and problem-solving at a global scale,” High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India Mahishini Colonne said, citing the timely international support that helped Sri Lanka navigate the 2022 economic crisis as an example of multilateral cooperation in action.
Young changemakers who work closely with UN agencies in India showcased their ideas, innovations, and efforts to empower communities and drive inclusive development. Akashdeep Bansal, UNDP Youth Co:Lab champion and IIT Delhi alumnus, spoke of his dream of an equitable and accessible digital future as he showcased his entrepreneurial venture SaralX, which converts content into compatible digital formats for persons with vision impairment. “Who gets access to opportunities? Whose experiences are shaping the decisions that follow?” Anisha Kisku, a UN Volunteer and Adi Yuva Fellow with UNFPA who works with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs asked the audience, posing a timely reminder on maximising opportunities for young people from diverse communities and lived realities.Raginee Mohanty, from the YuWaah at UNICEF India-backed National Youth Climate Consortium, spoke about her work helming the Dr STAT - The Green Bandage Project, which reimagines first aid to reduce biomedical waste and empower sanitation workers.
The public dialogue concluded the India leg of the week-long United Nations Day celebrations of the 81st anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945. “Humanity’s future depends on our ability to work together to advance peace, development and human rights… Let’s work to strengthen the United Nations to best serve people and meet the challenges of our time,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in his last message marking UN Day as the head of the organization.
- Written by Blassy Boben Jose
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Story
23 October 2026
New Delhi reception marks United Nations Day
The United Nations in India hosted a reception in New Delhi on Friday, bringing together government representatives, private sector leaders and development partners ahead of United Nations Day on 24 October. In a video message screened at the reception, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged countries to work together to address conflict, climate change and rising inequality, and reaffirm their commitment to the UN Charter and international law.Minister of State for External Affairs and Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh, the chief guest, extended greetings to the UN team and acknowledged its contributions to India's development. He reaffirmed India's commitment to the UN Charter and called for reform of multilateral institutions, including an expanded UN Security Council that reflects contemporary realities and the aspirations of the Globl South. He also stressed the need for collective action to advance peace and sustainable development.Addressing the gathering, UN Resident Coordinator Stefan Priesner highlighted India's role in shaping the UN's history and principles, and stressed the importance of translating global goals into national priorities and action. United Nations Day marks the anniversary of the UN Charter’s entry into force on 24 October 1945.
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Story
02 October 2026
Winners: Show Us Your India: Biodiversity Photography Contest
The five photographs above are the selected entries from the first Show Us Your India photography contest, held on the theme of biodiversity. The winning images have also been showcased across our social media platforms, including X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. The month-long contest, led by the UN Information Centre New Delhi, invited photographers from India and around the world to capture the variety of life found in India. More than 600 entries were received. Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth, from animals and plants to the ecosystems they are part of. It supports the food, water and natural resources that people depend on. Protecting biodiversity is central to Sustainable Development Goals 14 and 15, Life Below Water and Life on Land. In October 2026, countries will meet in Yerevan, Armenia, for CBD COP17, the 17th meeting of the Convention on Biological Diversity. It will be held in conjunction with the twelfth meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (CP-MOP-12) and the sixth meeting of the Parties to the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing (NP-MOP-6). COP 17 will mark the first global review of collective progress towards the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). Thank you to everyone who took part and shared a photograph with us.>>
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Story
26 September 2026
In Abyei, Indian peacekeepers strengthen presence as calm returns
Indian peacekeepers are among the United Nations personnel helping restore calm in Abyei, where deadly violence at a busy market earlier this month left 40 people reportedly dead and more than 100 injured.The violence took place on 15 September at Amiet Common Market, a vital commercial hub and source of livelihoods for predominantly Misseriya and Ngok Dinka communities.The security situation at the market is now relatively calm, but remains fragile. The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei, UNISFA, has increased its troop deployment and reinforced patrols in and around the market as part of efforts to de-escalate tensions, prevent further violence and protect civilians.Indian personnel are deployed in Sector Center, where many people were displaced, according to information provided by UNISFA. Alongside the increased security presence, UNISFA has intensified engagement with traditional leaders from the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities.During the week, the mission held discussions with leaders from both communities focused on rebuilding trust, preventing renewed hostilities and promoting peaceful coexistence.UNISFA has welcomed efforts by local communities to deter further violence and restore calm, while urging all communities to exercise maximum restraint.“While we are encouraged by the return to calm at Amiet market, the number of casualties highlights the significant impact of the violence,” said Lieutenant General Ganesh Kumar Shreshta, Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander.“We remind the communities that differences can only be resolved through dialogue,” he said.The Force Commander said UNISFA would continue to prioritise the protection of civilians and engagement with key stakeholders to prevent retaliation and create favourable conditions for the safe return of normal life and trade at the market.As the situation remains fragile, UNISFA will continue its efforts to support calm, protect civilians and engage with communities to prevent further escalation.The mission reiterated its commitment to implementing its mandate and protecting civilians in Abyei.As of June 2026, India was contributing 4,254 uniformed personnel to United Nations peacekeeping operations, according to UN figures.***
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Story
25 September 2026
Right to development: A blueprint for unmet promises
Ahead of the 40th anniversary of the groundbreaking Declaration on the Right to Development this December, world leaders gathered at a High-Level Week meeting on Wednesday to map progress made and the 21st century challenges still ahead – from narrowing the digital divide to levelling the AI playing field – as the UN chief presented a “blueprint” to address promises that remain unfulfilled. What you need to know:The declaration broke new ground in the universal struggle for greater human dignity, freedom, equality and justice when the UN General Assembly adopted it in 1986The declaration can help provide guardrails on issues from AI to internet access, as well as accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development A legally binding treaty on the right to development has been in the works since 2018 What is the declaration?Adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1986, it makes access to development an inalienable right.While a legally binding treaty has been in the works since 2018, the declaration states that everyone is “entitled to participate in, contribute to and enjoy economic, social, cultural and political development, in which all human rights and fundamental freedoms can be fully realised”. The declaration unequivocally puts people at the centre of the development process. Read the full declaration here.‘A call to action’UN Secretary-General António Guterres told world leaders the declaration’s anniversary is more than a moment of reflection, “It is a call to action.”For millions around the world, promises made in the declaration remain unfulfilled, “yet we know how to make it real,” he said, pointing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that “provide the blueprint to leave no one behind”.Under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the 17 SDGs contain goals and targets that are lifting people out of poverty and protecting their rights.Progress since the declaration’s adoption has been driven by the foresight, dedication and resilience of countries, communities and activists of all ages, he said.Extreme poverty has fallen dramatically, nearly half the world is now covered by some form of social protection, people are living longer and scientific and technological advances have transformed lives and livelihoods and expanded opportunity, he noted. New tests awaitBut today, the promise of development faces new tests, Mr. Guterres said, from widening inequalities and persistent food insecurity to rising debt, conflicts and economic instability that are impeding development and economic growth.In addition, the climate crisis is reaching devastating new levels each year, reminding the world that there can be no development on a degraded and unhealthy planet.While the digital revolution and artificial intelligence hold enormous potential to improve lives, these frontline technologies can also be drivers of exclusion and division.“The declaration unequivocally establishes development as a right and puts people at the centre of the development process,” he said.“Development, human rights and peace are not separate ambitions. They advance together. In today’s divided world, this vision can still unite us, and the Sustainable Development Goals are the roadmap to get us there.”What does people-centred development look like?UN agencies have long integrated human rights into projects around the world.The right to development extends to people enduring humanitarian crises and beyond – from war zones to disaster recovery.Here’s what putting people first means:Colombia: Indigenous Peoples’ groups have participated in the South American country’s peace accordsGaza: Women engineers are turning e-waste into opportunityNepal: Lethal floods in August wiped out communities that are now recovering and rebuilding better, with support from UN agencies Morocco: Vocational-training programmes are helping women launch income-generating activities in MoroccoSouth Sudan: UN peacekeepers built a reservoir to accommodate communities that had been fighting over scarce water resourcesVenezuela: UN agencies partnered to respond to deadly twin earthquakes in JuneThis article was first published here
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Press Release
16 October 2026
World Food Day 2026
Food is a basic human right. Yet around 645 million people faced hunger last year. And nearly 2.7 billion people cannot afford a healthy diet. Overlapping shocks and crises are adding to these pressures. Disrupting production and supply chains. Driving up the cost of food and fertilizer. And putting nutritious diets further out of reach for millions. We have the knowledge, technology and capacity to feed the world. It’s time to use it. This year’s theme for World Food Day is “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.” By harnessing data, innovation, and technology, including artificial intelligence, to ensure everyone can access nutritious food. By bringing together scientists, researchers, innovators, farmers, Indigenous Peoples and youth to find solutions. By mobilizing finance to make nutritious food more available and affordable, especially for developing countries. By supporting the ecosystems and people that make food possible — in keeping with this International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, and of the Woman Farmer. And by building global and local food systems that are more productive and resilient. Together, let us ensure that every person, everywhere, has access to safe, nutritious and affordable food. ***
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Press Release
14 October 2026
R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge 2026 selects Margn as Winner and Yoshita 1967 as Runner Up
New Delhi, 14 October 2026: R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge, an initiative of Reliance Industries Limited, in partnership with the United Nations in India and Lakmē Fashion Week, celebrated its grand finale yesterday with a landmark showcase at the Embassy of France in India. The event brought together emerging designers, industry leaders, fashion experts and global stakeholders to celebrate the next generation of circular fashion talent. Held under the India–France Year of Innovation 2026, the finale marked the culmination of the initiative’s eighth season, which continues to champion circular innovation, material exploration and cross-cultural creative exchange. Following a competitive selection process that began with over 220 applications globally, the 2026 edition brought together emerging designers from India and international markets, with finalists progressing through regional jury rounds, mentorship and industry engagements before presenting their collections to the Grand Jury in New Delhi. At the finale, Margn by Saurabh Maurya was named the Winner of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge 2026, while Yoshita 1967 by Anil Padia was recognised as Runner-Up. The results celebrated two distinct approaches to circular fashion, highlighting the role of craftsmanship, material innovation and responsible design in shaping a more conscious future for the industry. Margn, founded by Saurabh Maurya, presented an approach to contemporary fashion that brings together craftsmanship, material innovation and circularity. Through considered material choices and thoughtful construction, the collection explored the potential of circular design to inform modern aesthetics while encouraging more responsible approaches to fashion creation. Yoshita 1967, founded by Anil Padia, presented a collection rooted in cultural heritage, artisanal craftsmanship and contemporary design. Drawing on the designer’s cross-cultural perspective, the collection brought together traditional techniques and a modern design sensibility, highlighting the role of craftsmanship and material consciousness in shaping a more responsible fashion ecosystem. Together, the Winner and Runner-Up recognised the potential of emerging designers to advance circularity while preserving craftsmanship and exploring new possibilities for a more sustainable fashion industry.The finale was evaluated by a distinguished jury comprising Stefan Priesner, UN Resident Coordinator in India ; Serge Carreira, Head of Emerging Brands Initiative at the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode; Rochelle Pinto, Head of Editorial Content at Vogue India; Rajesh Pratap Singh, Founder and Creative Director of Pratap and Anaita Shroff Adajania, Fashion and Costume Stylist and Creative Director. Bringing together perspectives spanning fashion, luxury, media, design and sustainable development, the jury assessed the finalists on their creative vision, innovation, application of circular principles, material exploration, scalability, social impact, alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and potential to contribute meaningfully to the future of fashion.The 2026 edition marks an important milestone in the evolution of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge, strengthening its role as a platform connecting emerging talent with global fashion ecosystems. Through its collaboration with the Embassy of France in India, , Institut Francais, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), the United Nations in India and Lakmē Fashion Week, the initiative has created new avenues for international exchange, mentorship and industry access. The finale showcased at the Embassy of France further underscored the shared vision between India and France around creativity, innovation and responsible growth. Taking place during the India France Year of Innovation 2026, the event brought together two influential fashion and design ecosystems to spotlight how circularity can become a catalyst for new creative possibilities. Saurabh Maurya, Founder of Margn and Winner of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge 2026, said, “Winning the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge is a meaningful milestone for us at Margn. It reinforces our belief that thoughtful design, material innovation and craftsmanship can play a significant role in shaping a more responsible fashion industry. This platform has provided an opportunity to explore how circular principles can be integrated into contemporary design while creating pieces that are relevant, considered and forward-looking. We are grateful for the recognition and hope to continue pushing the boundaries of what conscious fashion can achieve.” Anil Padia, Founder of Yoshita 1967 and Runner-Up of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge 2026, said, “Being recognised as Runner-Up at the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge is an honour and an encouraging step for Yoshita 1967. Our work is deeply rooted in cultural heritage, artisanal craftsmanship and the belief that fashion can create meaningful connections between people, materials and communities. This experience has reinforced the importance of preserving traditional techniques while exploring new approaches to circularity and responsible design. We are grateful to be part of a platform that brings these conversations to the forefront and encourages designers to imagine a more conscious future for fashion.” Mr Hemant D Sharma, President, Polyester Business, Reliance Industries Limited, said, “At Reliance Industries, we believe sustainable growth and innovation go hand in hand. Over eight seasons, the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge has evolved into a global platform championing circularity through design and material innovation. This year, our partnerships with the Embassy of France, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, the United Nations in India and Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI, during the India–France Year of Innovation, further strengthen this vision. We congratulate Margn, the Winner, and Yoshita 1967, the Runner-Up, for demonstrating how creative thinking can contribute to a more responsible future for fashion.”Mr Stefan Priesner, UN Resident Coordinator in India, said, “India’s textile and fashion sector holds significant potential to advance the global transition towards circularity. Promoting the circular economy in textiles is an important part of the support that the UN India brings to the leadership of the Ministry of Textiles and India’s efforts in decarbonization, circular economy and decent work, together with partners from the industry. We congratulate Margn, the Winner, and Yoshita 1967, the Runner-Up, for their distinctive approaches to conscious fashion. Their recognition highlights the importance of empowering creative talent to explore solutions that support more sustainable production and consumption patterns, in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.”Commending the event, H.E. Mr Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, said, “The R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge reflects the spirit of the India-France Year of Innovation by bringing together French and Indian design perspectives on innovation and sustainability. I heartily congratulate the winners for their exceptional talent through which they have underscored the cultural and creative industries that are vital drivers of innovation and Indo-French bilateral cooperation. The launch of the Kering Generation Award today highlights the importance that France attaches to sustainable fashion and demonstrates the potential of bringing together major industry players and emerging entrepreneurs in the field and promoting professional exchange and collaboration between our two countries.”Jaspreet Chandok, Group Vice President, Reliance Brands Limited, said, “Over eight seasons, the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge has evolved into a platform that champions emerging designers reimagining the future of fashion through circularity and innovation. This year’s edition marks an important milestone, bringing together talent from India and international markets while strengthening connections across design, industry and sustainability. We remain committed to creating opportunities for emerging talent through visibility, mentorship and industry engagement. Margn’s winning approach and Yoshita 1967’s distinctive interpretation of circular design reflect the diverse possibilities within this space. We congratulate both designers and look forward to seeing them build on this recognition to take their work forward.”The Winner of the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge 2026 will receive a cash prize of USD 16,000, along with the opportunity to present an individual showcase at the next season of Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI in March 2027 in Mumbai, providing a platform to bring their circular design vision to a wider fashion and industry audience. The Runner Up will receive a cash prize of USD 5,000, along with bespoke mentorship from renowned sustainable fashion advocate Orsola de Castro, offering valuable guidance and industry insights to further develop their creative vision.The 2026 finale serves as a culmination of this year's global journey while marking the beginning of a new chapter for the designers recognised through the programme. By bringing together talent, industry expertise and international partnerships, the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge continues to demonstrate how fashion can be a space for innovation, collaboration and meaningful change.About R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge (RCDC)
Launched in India in 2018, the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge (RCDC) is a globally recognised platform dedicated to discovering, nurturing and accelerating the next generation of entrepreneurs, designers and innovators shaping the future of circular fashion. Developed in partnership with Reliance Industries Limited’s R|Elan™, the United Nations in India and Lakmé Fashion Week, RCDC champions solutions that reduce waste and advance circularity across the fashion and textile industry. Through mentorship, industry access and global exposure, the programme supports emerging talent while fostering innovation, collaboration and systems change. RCDC continues to expand its international footprint across India, Europe, the United Kingdom, Asia Pacific and the wider global fashion ecosystem.
About R|Elan™:
R|Elan™ is the next-gen fabric that has been created from specially engineered fibers and yarns using cutting-edge technological expertise, state-of-the-art R&D, and the robust testing systems of Reliance Industries. These smart fabrics have been designed to enhance comfort and aesthetics and it is being increasingly sought-after fabric by renowned domestic and global brands, retailers, and apparel manufacturers. The technologies that power R|Elan™ fabric imparts several attributes such as moisture management, odor-free, and thermal insulation while ensuring that they contribute something back to Mother Earth.
About United Nations in India
The United Nations system in India includes 26 organizations that serve in India. The UN entities, under the overall leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator, provide strategic support to India to help the country achieve its aspirations to end poverty and inequality and to promote sustainable development, in line with the globally agreed Sustainable Development Goal and India’s ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. UN India supports the Government and people of India in advancing the country’s ambitious commitments to rapid change and development priorities, including its leadership to enhance resource efficiency across sectors, transition to a circular economy and promotion of sustainable lifestyles.
For more information, visit: http://india.un.org/
About Reliance Industries Limited
Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) is India’s largest private sector company, with a consolidated revenue of INR 11,75,919 crore (US$ 124.0 billion), cash profit of INR 1,71,258 crore (US$ 18.1 billion) and net profit of INR 95,754 crore (US$ 10.1 billion) for the year ended March 31, 2026. Reliance’s activities span hydrocarbon exploration and production, petroleum refining and marketing, petrochemicals, advanced materials and composites, renewables (solar and hydrogen), retail, digital services and media and entertainment. Currently ranked 85th, Reliance is the largest private sector company from India to be featured in Fortune’s Global 500 list of 'World’s Largest Companies' for 2026. The company stands 45th in the Forbes Global 2000 rankings of 'World’s Largest Public Companies' for 2025, the highest among Indian companies. Reliance has been recognized in Time's list of the 100 Most Influential Companies of 2024, marking the only Indian company to have achieved this honor twice. Website: www.ril.com
About the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode
The Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM) gathers the world's most renowned luxury and creative houses, selected for their creativity and unique, innovative expertise and savoir-faire, along with the most talented emerging brands. It organises Paris Fashion Week® and Haute Couture Week, structuring the Official Calendars and its adjacent activities. The FHCM serves a dual mission: as a Professional Organisation, it provides services to its Members and represents them within the professional ecosystem and towards public authorities in France and Europe. As an Event Organisation, it aims to consolidate Paris as the fashion capital of the world. Visit us at www.fhcm.paris and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.
About The French Institute in India, Embassy of France
The French Institute in India (Institut français en Inde), a section of the Embassy of France in India, is dedicated to fostering meaningful people-to-people ties between France and India. As the cultural, educational, and scientific wing of the French diplomatic mission, IFI drives a wide spectrum of collaborations. These range from promoting academic and scientific partnerships between universities and research institutes, to advancing student mobility and the learning of the French language. IFI also actively connects artists, scholars, NGOs, entrepreneurs, film professionals, publishers, and institutions across sectors.
At the heart of our mission lies a strong commitment to artistic and cultural partnerships, in performance, literature, cinema, fashion, design, and more. IFI regularly convenes forums, festivals, and debates that bring together the brightest minds and creative forces from both nations. For more info: www.institutfrancaisindia.in
Launched in India in 2018, the R|Elan™ Circular Design Challenge (RCDC) is a globally recognised platform dedicated to discovering, nurturing and accelerating the next generation of entrepreneurs, designers and innovators shaping the future of circular fashion. Developed in partnership with Reliance Industries Limited’s R|Elan™, the United Nations in India and Lakmé Fashion Week, RCDC champions solutions that reduce waste and advance circularity across the fashion and textile industry. Through mentorship, industry access and global exposure, the programme supports emerging talent while fostering innovation, collaboration and systems change. RCDC continues to expand its international footprint across India, Europe, the United Kingdom, Asia Pacific and the wider global fashion ecosystem.
About R|Elan™:
R|Elan™ is the next-gen fabric that has been created from specially engineered fibers and yarns using cutting-edge technological expertise, state-of-the-art R&D, and the robust testing systems of Reliance Industries. These smart fabrics have been designed to enhance comfort and aesthetics and it is being increasingly sought-after fabric by renowned domestic and global brands, retailers, and apparel manufacturers. The technologies that power R|Elan™ fabric imparts several attributes such as moisture management, odor-free, and thermal insulation while ensuring that they contribute something back to Mother Earth.
About United Nations in India
The United Nations system in India includes 26 organizations that serve in India. The UN entities, under the overall leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator, provide strategic support to India to help the country achieve its aspirations to end poverty and inequality and to promote sustainable development, in line with the globally agreed Sustainable Development Goal and India’s ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. UN India supports the Government and people of India in advancing the country’s ambitious commitments to rapid change and development priorities, including its leadership to enhance resource efficiency across sectors, transition to a circular economy and promotion of sustainable lifestyles.
For more information, visit: http://india.un.org/
About Reliance Industries Limited
Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) is India’s largest private sector company, with a consolidated revenue of INR 11,75,919 crore (US$ 124.0 billion), cash profit of INR 1,71,258 crore (US$ 18.1 billion) and net profit of INR 95,754 crore (US$ 10.1 billion) for the year ended March 31, 2026. Reliance’s activities span hydrocarbon exploration and production, petroleum refining and marketing, petrochemicals, advanced materials and composites, renewables (solar and hydrogen), retail, digital services and media and entertainment. Currently ranked 85th, Reliance is the largest private sector company from India to be featured in Fortune’s Global 500 list of 'World’s Largest Companies' for 2026. The company stands 45th in the Forbes Global 2000 rankings of 'World’s Largest Public Companies' for 2025, the highest among Indian companies. Reliance has been recognized in Time's list of the 100 Most Influential Companies of 2024, marking the only Indian company to have achieved this honor twice. Website: www.ril.com
About the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode
The Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM) gathers the world's most renowned luxury and creative houses, selected for their creativity and unique, innovative expertise and savoir-faire, along with the most talented emerging brands. It organises Paris Fashion Week® and Haute Couture Week, structuring the Official Calendars and its adjacent activities. The FHCM serves a dual mission: as a Professional Organisation, it provides services to its Members and represents them within the professional ecosystem and towards public authorities in France and Europe. As an Event Organisation, it aims to consolidate Paris as the fashion capital of the world. Visit us at www.fhcm.paris and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.
About The French Institute in India, Embassy of France
The French Institute in India (Institut français en Inde), a section of the Embassy of France in India, is dedicated to fostering meaningful people-to-people ties between France and India. As the cultural, educational, and scientific wing of the French diplomatic mission, IFI drives a wide spectrum of collaborations. These range from promoting academic and scientific partnerships between universities and research institutes, to advancing student mobility and the learning of the French language. IFI also actively connects artists, scholars, NGOs, entrepreneurs, film professionals, publishers, and institutions across sectors.
At the heart of our mission lies a strong commitment to artistic and cultural partnerships, in performance, literature, cinema, fashion, design, and more. IFI regularly convenes forums, festivals, and debates that bring together the brightest minds and creative forces from both nations. For more info: www.institutfrancaisindia.in
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Press Release
13 October 2026
International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction
Our homes are where we sleep, care for one another, and build our daily lives. But how they are planned, built, and maintained can determine whether or not they keep us safe.Every year, millions of homes are damaged or destroyed, displacing families and deepening poverty, with some of the heaviest tolls falling on older persons, persons with disabilities, low-income households, and others vulnerable groups.That’s why the theme of this year’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, “Resilience Starts at Home”, is so critical. Safety begins where we live, and preparedness at the household level – understanding the risks, having a plan, and acting swiftly – can mean the difference between life and loss.But households cannot do this alone. Governments must enforce risk-informed building codes and land-use planning. The private sector must invest in resilient construction and affordable insurance. And everyone, everywhere, must have access to effective early-warning systems that reach them in time – the central promise of the Early Warnings for All initiative. We must also reform the international financial architecture to ensure developing countries can access the preparedness resources they need.As climate and disaster risks multiply, building safer dwellings is the shared responsibility of governments, developers, engineers and communities. Together, let us commit to making every home a resilient one, now, and in the future.
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Press Release
11 October 2026
International Day of the Girl Child
Every three seconds, child marriage cuts a girl’s childhood short. One in five girls worldwide is married before the age of 18. Child marriage compromises the education, health, and safety of millions of girls across the globe. Fundamentally, it is rooted in poverty. The risk goes up in times of conflict, climate shocks, and displacement, leaving families with fewer options for their daughters. But we know how to halt this harmful practice. Keeping girls in school, improving economic opportunities for families, enhancing social and legal protections, and challenging discriminatory gender norms all help girls reclaim their agency. Over the past 25 years, such solutions have prevented an estimated 68 million child marriages. Yet recent funding cuts threaten progress. At the rate we’re going, it will take centuries to eliminate child marriage. On this International Day of the Girl Child, I call on governments, the private sector, civil society, and community leaders to scale up investment in proven solutions, and ensure they reach every girl, everywhere. It’s time to end child marriage once and for all. Together, let us defend the right of all girls to a childhood, and ensure every daughter, every sister, grows up free to shape her own future.
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Press Release
10 October 2026
Wold Mental Health Day
On this year’s World Mental Health Day, we reaffirm the expertise and leadership of people with lived experience of mental health challenges. This year’s theme — “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change” — reflects the fact that people are too often excluded from decisions about their own lives. Yet their insights are essential to shaping effective services and policies. This is particularly true for young people facing economic uncertainty, climate anxiety and online harms, and for people of all ages affected by conflict and humanitarian crises, where disrupted services compound distress. It also matters where care is received. Right now, over 80 per cent of countries provide mental health services in psychiatric hospitals. But people with lived experience frequently wish to recover in their homes and communities. All patients have the right to access housing, education, work and social support in a context where evidence shows they are more likely to heal. I call on governments everywhere to replace exclusion with partnership, and invest in community-centred care. On this day, and every day, let us reaffirm our commitment to mental health, remove stigma and build systems rooted in dignity and rights for all.
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Latest Resources
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Resources
29 December 2025
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