Global Experts Converge at IIT Mandi for LARAM Course 2026 on Landslide Risk Assessment and Mitigation

Mumbai, Mar 10: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has inaugurated the LARAM Course 2026 (Landslide Risk Assessment and Mitigation), a prestigious six-day international training programme dedicated to advancing global knowledge and practical solutions for landslide disaster risk reduction. The programme brings the internationally renowned LARAM School Italy to India in physical mode for the second time.

The LARAM School, established in 2005 by the Geotechnical Engineering Group (GEG) of the University of Salerno, Italy, has become a globally respected platform for advanced training of PhD scholars, young researchers, and professionals in civil engineering, environmental engineering, geology, and related disciplines which is aligned with one of the core values of IIT Mandi, i.e., regional development. The programme focuses on interdisciplinary approaches to landslide risk assessment, forecasting, and mitigation, with previous editions conducted in several international locations including Italy, China, and Switzerland. 

The LARAM Course 2026 at IIT Mandi has brought together 10 distinguished experts from Switzerland, Italy, Norway, and India, who will deliver lectures and training sessions to 40 participants, including research scholars and professionals from various parts of India and a few international participants. The course curriculum has been carefully designed to address the unique challenges of landslides in the Himalayan region, where slope instability poses serious risks to communities, transportation networks, and critical infrastructure. 

The programme is organized by the Centre for Climate Change and Disaster Management (C3DAR) at IIT Mandi, with support from Tata Trusts, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). It integrates scientific lectures, technical discussions, and field exposure to strengthen understanding of landslide processes and mitigation strategies in mountainous terrain.

 Prof. Settimio Ferlisi, President of the LARAM School and faculty member at the University of Salerno, highlighted the significance of bringing the programme to the Himalayan region.

“The LARAM School has always aimed to build a strong international community of young researchers working on landslide risk reduction. Hosting the course in the Himalayas provides participants with the opportunity to engage directly with one of the most landslide-prone regions of the world, enriching both the scientific and practical dimensions of the training.” 

Dr. Kala Venkata Uday, Coordinator of LARAM Course 2026 and Chairperson of C3DAR (Center for Climate Change and Disaster Management) at IIT Mandi, emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing disaster risks in mountainous regions. 

“The Himalayan region faces complex landslide challenges due to its fragile geology, rapid development, and changing climatic patterns. The LARAM Course at IIT Mandi provides an important platform for global experts and young researchers to exchange knowledge and develop strategies that can contribute to safer and more resilient mountain communities.” 

Hosting LARAM Course 2026 at IIT Mandi highlights India’s growing role in advancing research, training, and international collaboration in landslide disaster risk reduction, particularly for the Himalayan region. The programme is expected to generate valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and disaster management authorities working toward sustainable and resilient development in mountainous environments.