The Himalayan University Consortium has its mandate in developing an effective, sustainable network of universities in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region. It does so in collaboration with academic, research, and knowledge generating and exchange institutions both within and outside the region. Over the past three years, there has been a renewed interest among existing members and increased interest among potential members. The total members increased from 33 in the beginning of 2016 to 61 by the end of 2017, among which there are new three members from India.

Of eight countries in the HKH, India contributes the largest number of full members, locating in both the Himalayan states and in New Delhi. Some of the members have taken the lead in a number of Consortium’s activities, such as joining an exposure visit to Bangladesh in May 2017, and joining and offering leading roles in the newly established Thematic Groups. This heightened ownership and leadership indicates a readiness for an India Chapter of HUC to be established, aiming to promote stronger collaboration between HUC full members in India and those of neighboring countries, as well as associate members. 

Objectives

Senior representatives of HUC members in India will be discussing: 

1. Objective and procedure to establish the HUC India Chapter and draft its by-laws and plan of action.
2. Procedure to nominate an HUC Steering Group member representing members in India for 2018.
3. A draft of the HUC Strategy and Action Plan I (2018–2022).
4. Potential funding sources for research and training collaboration among HUC members in India and members in the region and beyond.

Participants 

1. Senior representatives of existing HUC members in India, led by the HUC Steering Group member, PP Dhyani, and facilitated by representative of co-organizer, TERI School of Advanced Studies. 
2. Senior representatives of a number of higher education institutions focusing on sustainable mountain development will also be invited to selected sessions.

Expected Outcomes

The one-day meeting is expected to arrive at:

1. A summary and action points regarding the HUC India Chapter.
2. A summary and action points of a nomination procedure for the HUC Steering Group member.
3. A summary of comments and inputs to the HUC Strategy and Action Plan I (2018–2011).
4. A summary and action points regarding funding resources.