The National Design Forums

This forum explores how design education can move beyond teaching skills and techniques to develop observation, curiosity, critical thinking, empathy, experimentation, collaboration and the ability to work with complexity.

This forum looks at the possibility of moving from a linear model of take–make–use–discard towards circular ways of designing, producing and consuming. Rather than treating sustainability as an isolated environmental concern, the forum asks how circular thinking can become embedded in the everyday functioning of the city—and how designers can help create systems that are economically viable, socially inclusive and regenerative.

Jaipur's identity is deeply connected to its crafts, materials, techniques, architecture, textiles, jewellery, visual culture and communities of makers. This forum explores how craft and cultural knowledge can remain economically viable, relevant and meaningful while evolving for contemporary life. The larger question is how Jaipur can celebrate its cultural richness without turning it into a museum piece—and how design can help craft become a living, evolving and future-facing part of the city's identity and economy.

This forum asks: What kind of Jaipur are we collectively making? It opens a conversation around public spaces, mobility, architecture, housing, infrastructure, heritage, streets, neighbourhoods and the relationship between the historic city and its expanding contemporary landscape. Speakers can examine how design can make the city more accessible, liveable, inclusive and responsive to its people while respecting its distinctive character.

This forum explores how stronger connections between designers, businesses, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, craft communities and institutions can create new value for Jaipur's economy and strengthen its creative ecosystem. It can also explore the opportunities for designers to become entrepreneurs and for industry to engage more meaningfully with design education and emerging talent. With Jaipur's strengths in craft, textiles, jewellery, furniture, hospitality, tourism, manufacturing and creative enterprise, the forum asks how the city can develop a more visible and connected design-led economy.

Design itself is changing rapidly. This forum looks ahead and asks what the profession might become and what responsibilities designers will carry in a world of accelerating change. Rather than predicting a single future, the forum aims to open a conversation about multiple possible futures and the role designers can play in shaping them consciously and responsibly.