Ranchi, May 28: Jharkhand environment and forest secretary Aboobackeer Siddique stressed that the basic mantra of sustainable development is that we should develop, but without harming nature and environment.
Addressing a function to mark the launch of SAARTHI Jharkhand Just Transition Network at a private hotel in Ranchi on Wednesday, Siddique said the natural resources that we are using today are the legacy of our ancestors.
“It is our responsibility to pass them on safely to the next generation. It is our responsibility to give a livable society and environment to the coming generation,” said Siddique.
“Change is inevitable. But development must respect our social and cultural diversity and ensure that no one is left behind — especially the most marginalised. This will require collaboration across many fields and sectors,” added Siddique.
In a significant step towards sustainable development and social inclusion, over 30 Jharkhand-based civil society organisations (CSOs) came together in Ranchi on Wednesday to launch SAARTHI – the Jharkhand Just Transition Network.
This is India’s first civil society-led network dedicated to advancing a just transition — ensuring that the shift to a greener economy is fair and inclusive.
The event was held in two parts. The first session featured expert speakers who shared their insights on Just Transition. In the second session, NGO representatives discussed strategies to strengthen the network and plan future activities.
The SAARTHI network will work closely with the state government, research institutions, local communities and environmental organisations to promote inclusive and sustainable development in Jharkhand.
A special focus will be placed on forest-dependent, mining-affected and traditionally marginalised communities.
Led by Vanvasi Vikas Ashram and Abhivyakti Sansthan, two Giridih-based organisations with long-standing work among tribal and forest-dwelling communities, SAARTHI will promote community-led initiatives, policy advocacy and skill-building. In the coming months, the network plans to organise training programs, awareness drives and dialogues across the state.
Johnson Topno, PHIA Foundation director, said, “SAARTHI will help bring community voices into policy decisions. This is a much-needed platform to ensure that development happens with people, not for them.”
A.K. Rastogi, retired IFS officer and chairperson of the Sustainable Just Transition Task Force, added, “Coal from Jharkhand supports energy needs across India. In 18 districts, the economy is still dependent on fossil fuels. Transitioning to greener options won’t happen overnight. But networks like SAARTHI can help guide this process, and raise awareness about the need for a planned, fair transition.”
