Bhubaneswar: The third edition of the Earth Again Conference 2026, also known as Punashcha Pruthibi, began at Utkal University in Bhubaneswar on Friday, bringing together experts, environmentalists, academics and students to deliberate on climate change, environmental protection and disaster management.

Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati inaugurated the three-day conference at the university auditorium. The inaugural session was attended by Odisha Minister for Odia Language, Literature and Culture Suryabanshi Suraj, Utkal University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Chandi Prasad Nanda, Eastern Media Limited Chairman Soumya Ranjan Patnaik, and Sambad and Kanak News Editor Tanaya Patnaik.

The three-day conference is being organised at two halls of Utkal University. The main auditorium is hosting sessions focused on environmental development and related issues, while the Maharaja Sri Krushna Chandra Gajapati Auditorium is hosting sessions dedicated to disaster management and preparedness.

Experts from Odisha, across India and abroad with specialised knowledge of climate and environmental issues are participating in the conference. The sessions will focus on climate change, its causes and impacts, the factors behind natural disasters, protection of the planet and the need for a greener and more sustainable Earth.

Environmentalists, intellectuals and students are also participating in the three-day event, which aims to provide a platform for discussions and exchange of ideas on pressing environmental and climate-related challenges.