The ongoing G20 presidency of India in the year 2023 presents a significant opportunity for the country to lead the just transition related effort at the international stage. As the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, India has a crucial role to play in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts in the world. With its abundant renewable energy resources and ambitious targets, India is well-positioned to drive the transition towards a sustainable energy future in a just manner.

The concept of a just transition has gained traction in recent years, as the world increasingly recognises the need to address the social and economic consequences of climate change and transition towards a low-carbon economy. A just transition involves ensuring that the transition to a sustainable economy is socially just, inclusive, and equitable for all stakeholders, including workers, communities, and vulnerable groups.

In recent times, there has been a growing excitement around initiatives on just transition in Jharkhand, which aims to promote a more sustainable and equitable development model. By constituting a Task Force on Sustainable Just Transition in November 2022, Jharkhand has become the first state in the country to set a policy direction to work towards a net-zero scenario and sustainable development goals. The task force has been mandated to prepare a vision roadmap to enable sustainable transition for a future-ready Jharkhand.

For a state which is known for its vast mineral reserves and rich forest cover, a just transition would mean increasingly move towards a more inclusive development model that prioritises the energy security through cleaner energy solutions, decarbonisation of industries and business operations, diversifying the economy on sustainability principles and ensuring a low carbon society for benefitting all. This transition would involve supporting local livelihoods, promoting renewable energy, and addressing the concerns of communities, particularly tribals and vulnerable sections.

One key aspect of a sustainable just transition in Jharkhand would be supporting the wider usage of cleaner technologies and renewable energy. Through the State Solar Policy-2022, Jharkhand Government has set a cumulative target of 4,000 MW in next five years. This is really a remarkable move, however, it is crucial that energy transition must be done in a way that is inclusive and benefits local communities. This involves promoting climate financing, technological demonstrations, and encouraging community-owned renewable energy projects, which would not only provide clean energy but also create local jobs and revenue.

In order to achieve a sustainable just transition in Jharkhand, it is crucial that there should be a strong partnership between government agencies, industries and businesses, civil society and local communities. It would also involve investing in education and skill- building for local communities, particularly in areas such as renewable energy, to ensure that they are able to benefit from the transition to a sustainable economy. Another important aspect would be putting community aspirations at the centre-stage. This would involve engaging with local communities, particularly tribal communities, and ensuring that their voices are heard in decision-making processes. Jharkhand aspires to take a lead. By working together, we can create a just and sustainable future for Jharkhand.