Deogarh, January 8, 2024: As part of the Move the Earth Initiative, the Jharkhand leg of the Cycle Yatra by SwitchON Foundation which commenced on January 4, 2024, from Olihantu reached Deogarh today. SwitchON Foundation organized a host of events in Deogarh for environment sustainability. 

A Krishi Mela was organized at DAO Ground, Deogarh in collaboration with Agriculture Technology  Management Agency , Deograh with the support of FD Foundation and Bharatiya Manav Vikas Seva Sangh . This was attended by around 300 people. In the Krishi Mela, various aspects of agriculture and farming were showcased. A total of 16 stalls were installed in the  Krishi Mela out of which 6 were millet stalls, 4 were mushroom stalls, 3 organic products stalls, 1 natural farming stall and 2 stalls were put up by KVK. This included display of new agricultural technologies, seeds, fertilizers, irrigation methods, crop varieties and different organic and millet products. Farmers, FPOs, SHGs, researchers, and agricultural enthusiasts gathered to exchange knowledge, learn about the latest advancements, and explore solutions for challenges in the agricultural sector. Demonstrations were organized to disseminate information and promote sustainable farming practices. The Krishi Mela played a crucial role in connecting farmers with resources and fostering agricultural development. The Krishi mela was attended by Mr. Kamal Kumar kujjur, DAO, Mr. Mantu Kumar, Dy. PD ATMA, Mr. Kumar Kundan, APMC Secretary, Mr. Anand Kumar, NABARD DDM, Mr. Yash Raj, District Horticulture Officer, Deogarh and other dignitaries from govt department.

Mr Vinay Jaju, Co-Founder of SwitchON Foundation said “As responsible citizens we must work together to create a clean and healthy environment for ourselves and future generations.” He further added, “Move for Earth is dedicated to the youth and farmers of our nation and aims to inspire them to take up action for this fragile Earth.”  

Sri Narayan Das, MLA, Deogarh said, “I applaud the efforts of SwitchON foundation to implement planet friendly practices, whether it’s through promoting climate smart agriculture or advocating environment friendly policies. I wish them all the very best in this continual endeavor.”

Another workshop in collaboration with ASSAFA was organized on waste management at A.S College, Satsang, Deogarh to sensitize people about effective waste management and to increase recycling and reuse of waste generated at the ward and individual level. This workshop convened key stakeholders, including academia, government, grassroots, nonprofits, youth and children. The workshop facilitated a comprehensive exchange of knowledge and insights among diverse stakeholders. It aimed at identifying innovative solutions and best practices through in-depth discussions, aiming to bridge gaps in understanding and catalyze transformative change focusing on waste management.

Around 200 people attended the stakeholder meet at A S College, Satsang, Deogarh. The workshop dealt into an insightful discussion on waste management strategies, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Participants engaged in lively exchanges on best practices and explored ways to implement comprehensive waste management systems that align with global sustainability goals. Various competitions and cultural programs in the form of skits on waste management were performed by the students. A best from waste exhibition was also displayed to promote creativity, environmental awareness and sustainable practices by repurposing materials. Dignitaries present in the workshop were Mr. Prakash Mishra, City Manager, Municipal Corporation, Mr. Akhilesh Kumar, Expert Trainer, Waste Management, Mr. Ashok Kumar, Principal, A.S.College and other representatives of school, Govt and NGOs.

Mr. Kamal Kumar Kujur, District Agricultural officer said, “It is an important step to highlight the urgency and need for action among masses, especially among the larger farmer community, which has been at the forefront of the climate impacts, with depleting ground water and changing rainfall patterns. By partnering with multiple stakeholders, we aim to inspire and empower communities towards a sustainable and brighter tomorrow.” 

Smt. Sarla Karan, Secretary, F D Foundation said, “It’s truly inspiring to see the impact that we can make by working in association with SwitchON Foundation and taking action towards waste management by sharing our ideas, resources and networks.”

The cycle yatra, which started from Olihantu, Khunti will cover around 500 kms in Jharkhand passing through Ranchi, Ormanjhi, Ramgarh, Bokaro, Phusro, Dhanbad, Giridih, Madhupur, Deogarh, Jarmundi and culminating in Dumka on January 9, 2024. Under the initiative, efforts were made to highlight the various solutions that could be taken up towards equipping communities with key tools, resources, new age skills and creating a networked ecosystem for them to be the ambassadors of change. 

The main motto of the ‘Move for Earth’ movement is to celebrate and inspire Climate Action with a purpose to build a smarter and brighter future for ourselves, our children, our farmers and life on earth. The whole movement would cover cycling over 4,000 km across different states in East India engaging Farmers, Youth, Government, Financiers, Technologists and Civil Society Organizations through its journey, and offer solutions to community-specific issues related to water, soil, energy and clean air, that are directly impacting the livelihood and health of citizens. 

About SwitchON Foundation:  

SwitchON Foundation, established in 2008, is a leading non-profit organisation focusing on Environment Sustainability and Equal Opportunities. Operating in 10 Indian states. It leads initiatives in Clean Energy Access, Sustainable Agriculture, Skilling, Clean Air and Sustainable Cities. Key strengths encompass innovative project implementation, capacity building, field support, awareness and advocacy.

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