SUMAN K SHRIVASTAVA
Ranchi, Jan 10: As Jharkhand completes 25 years of statehood, the state is set to step onto the global stage for the first time with its debut participation at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026, scheduled to be held in Davos from January 19 to 23.
A delegation led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren will represent Jharkhand at the prestigious global forum, marking a significant moment in the state’s political and developmental journey. Jharkhand’s participation signals a shift from being largely discussed in global development narratives to actively engaging in shaping them.
From Statehood to Global Engagement
Jharkhand’s first appearance at Davos coincides with a milestone year, underscoring how the state has evolved over a quarter century from a newly carved, resource-rich region into an emerging participant in global policy conversations. The state brings to the forum perspectives shaped by its lived realities of forests, minerals, labour migration, climate vulnerability, and indigenous governance—issues central to global debates on sustainability and equitable growth.
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Unlike conventional investment-led narratives, Jharkhand’s engagement is positioned around governance-led development, institutional capacity-building, and long-term sustainability, reflecting the experience of regions that bear the social and environmental costs of economic growth.
Focus on Sustainable and Inclusive Growth
During WEF 2026, Jharkhand will focus on electric mobility, energy security, climate action, forest and bio-economy, and women’s empowerment, placing the state within global discussions on just transitions and inclusive development pathways.
The state will participate in thematic sessions and bilateral engagements covering critical minerals, renewable energy, manufacturing, food processing, healthcare, and emerging financing mechanisms. Jharkhand will also host discussions outlining its long-term development vision and policy approach to balancing economic growth with environmental and social responsibilities.
These engagements aim to strengthen partnerships with multilateral institutions, governments, academic bodies, and responsible private sector stakeholders.
India at Davos: Jharkhand Among Ten States
Jharkhand will be one of ten Indian states participating at the World Economic Forum 2026, alongside Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Kerala. Several Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers will lead their respective delegations, reflecting India’s expanding sub-national presence in global economic and policy platforms.
India’s national delegation will include Union Ministers from agriculture, information technology, renewable energy, railways, and civil aviation, along with more than 100 Indian industry leaders, presenting a comprehensive picture of the country’s economic priorities and governance reforms.
Growth in Harmony with Nature
Jharkhand’s participation at the World Economic Forum 2026 reflects its evolving role in national and global policy spaces and its intent to engage internationally on development pathways that balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability.
The state’s Davos engagement is anchored in its theme for WEF 2026: “Growth in Harmony with Nature.”
