THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, May 28: In a landmark move for sustainable and inclusive development, over 30 civil society organisations from across Jharkhand gathered in Ranchi on Wednesday to launch SAARTHI—the state’s first Just Transition Network. This civil society-led initiative is also the first of its kind in India, aimed at ensuring that the shift to a green economy leaves no one behind.
The launch event unfolded in two parts: a knowledge-sharing session featuring expert insights on just transition, followed by a strategy meeting where NGO representatives mapped out future plans and collaborative efforts.
A Collaborative Path to Greener Growth
SAARTHI (Jharkhand Just Transition Network) will work hand-in-hand with the state government, academic institutions, grassroots communities, and environmental organisations. Its mission: to promote inclusive development, especially among forest-dependent, mining-affected, and historically marginalised groups.
Leading the initiative are two Giridih-based organisations, Vanvasi Vikas Ashram and Abhivyakti Sansthan, known for their long-standing work with tribal and forest-dwelling communities. The network will focus on community-driven projects, policy advocacy, and capacity-building through training and awareness drives in the months ahead.
Development Must Be Inclusive: Aboobacker Siddique
Chief Guest Aboobacker Siddique, Secretary of the Department of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, underscored the urgency of inclusive growth.
“Change is inevitable,” he said. “But development must honour our social and cultural diversity, ensuring that no one is left behind—especially the most marginalised. Achieving this will require cooperation across sectors.”
Voices for a Fair Transition
Johnson Topno, Director of PHIA Foundation, highlighted SAARTHI’s potential to bring grassroots voices into policy spaces.
“This platform ensures development is done with people, not for them,” he said.
A.K. Rastogi, retired IFS officer and Chairperson of the Sustainable Just Transition Task Force, pointed out that coal from Jharkhand powers much of India’s energy grid, yet 18 districts remain economically reliant on fossil fuels.
“The shift to greener energy won’t be overnight. But SAARTHI can play a vital role in guiding and educating communities for a fair transition.”
He also noted new mine closure guidelines issued in January 2025, which include eco-restoration, fish farming, irrigation using mine water, and eco-park development—all aiming to boost both local livelihoods and environmental health.
Natural Resources, New Opportunities
Shankar Nagachari, Technical Director at CMPDI, spotlighted NABARD’s long-standing work in Jharkhand, particularly in sustainable agriculture and climate resilience.
“We’re expanding tasar silk plantations and supporting over 250 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), giving farmers better access to markets.”
Gautam Kumar Singh, NABARD’s Chief General Manager, said SAARTHI could be instrumental in job creation.
“Jharkhand’s forests hold immense potential. With the right skills, communities can sustainably harvest and market resources like tendu leaves, lac, and mahua.”
Political Support for Civil Society Action
Umakant Rajak, MLA of Chandanakiyari-Bokaro, also lent his support to the network, praising the role of civil society in advancing equitable development across the state.
