Pondicherry: The International Conference on Energy and Water for Sustainable Environment (ICEWSE 2025) was inaugurated at Pondicherry University, bringing together global experts to explore sustainable synergies between energy and water. The inaugural session commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.

Prof. R. Arun Prasath, UNESCO Chair (RECSD) and convenor of ICEWSE 2025, welcomed participants and highlighted the collaboration with the Centre for South Asia Water Management, University of Moratuwa, and the South Asia Foundation. Emphasizing the urgent need for carbon-neutral technologies, he underscored that climate change impacts all nations, regardless of wealth, and called for honoring international commitments such as the UNFCCC, Kyoto Protocol, Glasgow Pact, and Paris Agreement. The university released its roadmap for net-zero carbon emissions by 2035.

Video messages from Dr. Benno Böer (UNESCO, New Delhi) and H.E. Mahishini Colonne (High Commissioner of Sri Lanka) reaffirmed international support. Prof. P. Prakash Babu, Vice Chancellor, released the ICEWSE-2025 Abstract Booklet and reiterated the university's commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including clean water, affordable energy, and climate action.

Madam France Marquet, Principal Trustee of the Madanjeet Singh Foundation, and Prof. Lalith Rajapakse, UNESCO Chair, highlighted the importance of regional partnerships and transformative research to address sustainability challenges.

The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. D.S. Sharada, setting the stage for knowledge exchange, innovation, and international collaboration. ICEWSE 2025 aims to foster dialogue, actionable solutions, and a shared commitment toward a sustainable global future.