Join us in the engaging and interactive session as we identify a few specific and common pathways for our challenges through learnings from the rich tapestry of Himalayan environmental history and pave the way for youth leadership and environmental stewardship.

In our last session, we set the stage by exploring Uttarakhand’s historical initiatives, current challenges & possibilities. Now, in Session 3, a continuum session, we’ll reflect on our last session’s learning, and delve deeper into a few water-based community initiatives of the Himalayan river basin. This session further opens a platform for youth to discuss their role and challenges in water rejuvenation.

About the Speaker

Suresh Bhai, born in Niwal village of Tehri district, Uttarakhand, developed a deep fascination with Sarvodaya workers in his childhood. After completing his studies, he joined Lok Jeevan Vikas Bharti and actively campaigned in 5000 villages of Uttarakhand from 1984 to 1994, advocating for the prohibition of liquor and forest conservation.

Between 1993 and 1994, he initiated the Raksha Sutra movement to halt commercial deforestation in the high-altitude areas of Tehri-Uttarakashi district, mobilising thousands of women to protect trees with Raksha Sutras. Uttarakhand became a state in 2000, and Suresh Bhai continued to contribute to the conservation of natural resources and sustainable development. 

He provided valuable input for policies like Public Water Policy, Public Rehabilitation Policy, Uttarakhand Development Document, and Himalaya Public Policy Document, issued by the Central and State Governments. He also played a significant role in the Uttarakhand Nadi Bachao Campaign, contributing to the national river status for the Ganga and the suspension of numerous hydroelectric projects. 

Suresh Bhai’s activism extends to environmental education, women’s and children’s rights, and addressing climate change issues affecting farmers in Uttarakhand, evident through his contributions to Hindi newspapers and the establishment of the Himalaya Environmental Education Institute in 1994.

For any query, reach out to Pipilitara at 7760189930