Meghalaya: BAIC Connect 2025 to Shape the Future of Architecture in Northeast India

SHILLONG: The Northeast Indian architectural landscape is geared up for radical change as BAIC Connect 2025, a select Architects' Meeting, is held at Vivanta Hotel, Shillong, on March 1.

Hosted by BAIC Exhibition and Events, the region's biggest forum for Building, Architecture, Interiors, and Construction, the event seeks to initiate serious dialogue among architects, designers, and industry professionals on the future of urbanization and sustainable development in the Northeast.

BAIC Exhibition and Events, established by Miller Sinha and Neha Malhotra, has been instrumental in providing a platform for professionals in the architecture and construction industry to come together, exchange ideas, and discover new trends.

With BAIC Connect 2025, the organizers aim to bring attention to the distinctive challenges of designing for the Northeast's varied topography while encouraging innovation and sustainable practices.

The conference will include X-Talks and keynote addresses by some of the most prominent architects of the present times. Some of the distinguished speakers are Ar. Vinu Daniel of Wallmakers, who is well known for his work in sustainable and vernacular architecture; Ar. Kishore Panikkar of ArchitectureRED, who is a pioneer in urban design; Ar. Aroty Panyang of STUDIOARO, who is famous for her modern yet locally inspired style; and Ar. Ronojoy Sen is an expert in sustainable building solutions. Their observations will equip participants with a better comprehension of sustainable city planning in the Northeast.

Further lending context to the event, Padmashri awardee Patricia Mukhim, editor-in-chief of Shillong Times, and Samean Shullai, Town Planning Officer at MUDA, have kindly agreed to be special guests at the occasion. Their knowledge of urban policy and regional development will be such that it generates intellectual debate on cities of the future for the Northeast.

The most eagerly awaited session at BAIC Connect 2025 is the panel discussion on 'Urbanization on Hills: Challenges, Opportunities, and Sustainable Strategies for Northeast India'. With the region witnessing fast-paced urbanization, the panel will aim to reconcile development with protecting the environment.

The panel discussion will include distinguished architects and town planners such as Ar. Lalrinzuala Ralte (President, Mizoram Architects' Forum), Ar. Gitkumar Nepram (President, Manipur Architects' Forum), Ar. Nokranglong Jamir (Co-founder and Head Architect, Design & Build Company), Ar. Rittick Hazarika (Founder, RHDA), Ar. Aiban S. Mawkhroh (President, Meghalaya Architects' Forum), Ar. Rameez R. Gazi (Assistant Professor, NEHU Shillong), and Patricia Mukhim, with the perspective of the media regarding urban growth.

While BAIC Connect 2025 is a platform for sharing knowledge and innovation, the architecture fraternity is also preparing for the second edition of the BAIC Exhibition and Events from September 12–14, 2025, at Maniram Dewan Trade Centre, Guwahati.

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