Gurugram, 6th March 2025 – In a landmark move towards environmental sustainability and legal excellence, Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University (SGT University) has announced the establishment of the Sudhir Mishra Centre for ESG, Environmental Law & Climate Change (SMCEC). Named after Mr. Sudhir Mishra, one of India’s foremost environmental lawyers, the Centre is set to become a pioneering research and academic hub dedicated to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) laws, climate policy, and sustainability.
Mr. Sudhir Mishra, a stalwart in environmental law and climate justice, was recently appointed as Amicus Curiae by the Supreme Court of India in the landmark case Ridhima Pandey v. Union of India (Civil Appeal No. 388 of 2021). His contributions to environmental litigation and advocacy have significantly shaped India’s legal framework for climate change and sustainability.
Centre for ESG and Environmental Law
The Faculty of Law, SGT University, a leading institution for legal education in India, spearheaded the initiative to establish SMCEC as a centre of excellence. Inspired by the Central Empowered Committee of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, which has played a crucial role in protecting India’s biodiversity and ecological integrity, the Centre aims to bridge legal research, industry collaboration, and public policy.
“We are honored that Mr. Mishra has agreed to establish this Centre in his name. His vast expertise in environmental and climate law, both nationally and internationally, will make this Centre a leading institution in its domain. This initiative ensures that we are on the right path to shaping future environmental law professionals.”
Key Objectives of the Sudhir Mishra Centre for ESG, Environmental Law & Climate Change
The Centre is envisioned as a student think tank and research hub that will contribute to:
- Cutting-edge legal research on ESG, climate change, and environmental sustainability.
- Policy recommendations on carbon emissions, climate governance, and environmental rights.
- Industry collaboration with private and governmental organizations, embassies, corporate sustainability departments, and Pollution Control Boards.
- Student engagement programs, including internships, workshops, and collaborative projects with leading organizations.
- Creation of intellectual property (IP) rights on ESG, environmental law, and student-led initiatives.
Industry Collaboration and Expert Leadership
SMCEC will work closely with Trust Legal Advocates & Consultants, one of India’s leading ESG and environmental law firms, founded by Mr. Sudhir Mishra. The faculty leadership includes:
- Dr. Richa Chaudhary, Dean, Faculty of Law, SGT University, as the Head of the Centre.
- Mr. Manmohan Singh Chawla, Patron-in-Chief.
- Mr. Sudhir Mishra, Patron and Advisor.
- Ms. Petal Chandhok, Partner, Trust Legal, and Ms. Swasti Misra, Senior Associate, Trust Legal, as Ex-officio Members.
“The Centre will bring students an unparalleled combination of academic excellence and real-world industry exposure. By engaging with legal experts, policymakers, and corporate leaders, our students will gain hands-on experience that will equip them for the future.”
A Vision for the Future of Climate and ESG Law
With this initiative, SGT University aims to set new benchmarks in climate law and sustainability education, reinforcing its position as a leader in legal and environmental research.