Urban October 2026: From Ideas to Urban Practice is a two-day academic and practice-oriented programme bringing together planning students, academicians, urban practitioners and ULB representatives. The programme focuses on contemporary urban challenges including adequate housing, climate resilience, public space, mobility and urban governance. The first day combines expert sessions, student thesis presentations through the Urban Blueprint Prize, and an interactive dialogue with ULBs to bridge academic knowledge and professional practice. The second day provides experiential field learning through MapQuest Kozhikode, involving field observation, mapping, photography, primary data collection and documentation. An expert session on reading the city through mapping will help participants interpret their observations and connect them with broader urban issues. The programme concludes with team presentations, reflection and a valedictory session, encouraging participants to connect ideas, field experience and practical urban planning.