Inaugurates 12th International Conference on Law and Economics
Shimla, 24 October 2026
Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla, in association with the Law and Economics Trust, inaugurated the 12th International Conference on Law and Economics (ICLE-2026) today. The two-day conference, being held on 24 and 25 October 2026, centres on the theme “Positive Externalities for a Better Society” and seeks to foster interdisciplinary dialogue on the role of law, economics, institutions and public policy in promoting social welfare and sustainable development.
Prof. (Dr.) Girjesh Shukla delivered the welcome address, formally welcoming the dignitaries and participants and setting the tone for the academic deliberations. Prof. Murali Prasad Panta followed with his initial remarks, offering reflections to contextualise the discussions on law and economics.
Delivering the inaugural address, Prof. Jaivir Singh highlighted the significance of examining the relationship between law, economic incentives and institutional structures, particularly how institutions shape choices and behaviour and, in turn, influence society. His address set the context for interdisciplinary engagement around the conference theme.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan, who shared perspectives on the ideas underpinning the conference theme. Prof. L.C. Mallaiah, the Special Guest, also addressed the gathering and shared his thoughts on the occasion.
In her presidential address, Prof. (Dr.) Priti Saxena emphasised the importance of academic inquiry and interdisciplinary engagement in advancing meaningful discussions on contemporary legal and economic issues. The session concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Prof. (Dr.) Alok Kumar, Registrar, HPNLU
The conference provides an academic platform for researchers, academicians and subject experts to deliberate on contemporary issues at the intersection of law and economics. The central theme examines how institutional arrangements, community participation and incentive-based mechanisms can reduce transaction costs, improve resource allocation and generate positive outcomes for society.
A key feature of ICLE-2026 is the organisation of nine parallel technical sessions over the two days, providing opportunities for scholarly presentations and discussions across diverse areas of law and economics. The sessions cover a broad range of contemporary issues, including legal and economic policy, technology, environmental sustainability, healthcare, gender justice, innovation, trade, competition and social welfare.
The conference also features three panel discussions addressing critical issues of public importance. These include “Positive Externalities for a Better Society: The Role of Armed Forces in Merit Goods and Services”; “Social Capital-Oriented Practices of Surgeons’ Surgical Interventions”; and “Solid Waste, Externalities, and Urban Sustainability: Pathways to Sustainable Cities in India.” The panel discussions are designed to encourage interdisciplinary exchange and examine how institutional practices, professional interventions and public policies can contribute to improved societal outcomes.
The conference will conclude with a valedictory session on 25 October 2026, with Prof. L.C. Mallaiah as the Chief Guest. The session will mark the culmination of the two-day academic deliberations and provide an opportunity to reflect on the discussions and insights emerging from the conference.
Through ICLE-2026, HPNLU and the Law and Economics Trust reaffirm their commitment to advancing research, academic collaboration and informed dialogue on the economic analysis of law, institutional design and governance. The conference seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of how legal frameworks and economic approaches can work together to promote social well-being and build a more equitable and sustainable society.
