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Jharsuguda: A multistakeholder consultation on Community-Led Economic Diversification in Jharsuguda was organized by Water Initiatives, Youth4Water, and Asar Social Impact Advisors, bringing together 36 participants representing administration, grassroots civil society organizations, the local community, and think tanks. The event, inaugurated by Braja Bandhu Bhoi, Additional District Magistrate of Jharsuguda, provided a platform to address challenges posed by climate change and the need for economic diversification in the region.
In his inaugural remarks, Bhoi highlighted the importance of community awareness and preparedness to tackle the socio-economic and environmental challenges arising from Jharsuguda’s coal-dependent economy. He emphasized the significance of community engagement in driving sustainable and inclusive development for the district and appreciated the timeliness of the consultation.
Discussions aligned with India’s net zero targets by 2070 and the Government of Odisha’s aspirations for a robust green economy, emphasizing economic diversification as a key strategy for sustainability. Participants deliberated on actionable solutions, including agro-industries, eco-restoration of mining sites, skill development in renewable energy and agroforestry, and fostering women-led initiatives in organic farming and agro-based enterprises. Innovative approaches, such as transforming and utilizing industrial by-products like ash in agriculture and biodiversity restoration, were also explored to promote sustainable practices.
Ranjan Panda, Convenor of Water Initiatives, stressed the critical need to preserve ecological commons, including water bodies, while ensuring that restoration and economic development take into account the wider ecosystem and catchment areas. He remarked, “Jharsuguda has the potential to lead by example in balancing economic growth with sustainability. Engaging grassroots organizations and local communities will be crucial in ensuring that development is both inclusive and resilient.”
Avimuktesh Bhardwaj, Director – State Climate Action, and Kankana Das, Lead – State Climate Action, from Asar Social Impact Advisors also participated in the consultation. They contributed to the discussions by highlighting strategies for integrating climate resilience into economic diversification efforts.
The event underscored the critical role of grassroots civil society organizations in co-creating development strategies, advocating for sustainable policies, and enhancing community capacity to address economic and environmental challenges. With an emphasis on collaboration and innovation, the consultation reinforced the collective commitment of all stakeholders to foster economic resilience and environmental stewardship, positioning Jharsuguda as a model for sustainable development.