Doctoral Thesis

Working Title:
Sustainability Transformations in Coal Extractive Regions: A Resource Nexus and Just Transition Approach in the Case of Jharkhand, India

Supervisors:
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Robert Knippschild, IOER, Dresden University of Technology (TUD), and International Institute (IHI) Zittau; Dr. Alexey Alekseenko, UNU-FLORES

TUD Faculty:
Faculty of Environmental Sciences

IOER Research area:
Transformative Capacities

Abstract:
India’s coal extractive regions face significant challenges as the global energy transition from fossil fuels accelerates. Given the central role of coal in meeting the energy needs of the country and supporting livelihoods in coal-dependent regions, this transition stands to present a unique set of challenges. One such region is that of Jharkhand, which, although rich in natural resources and mineral reserves, still struggles under the pressure of socio-economic vulnerabilities, thus exemplifying the complexities of an equitable transition away from coal.

This research aims to investigate bottom-up approaches to regional transformations, with a focus on the coal-dependent communities of Jharkhand, particularly in regard to the state’s vulnerable tribal and rural populations. These communities have historically relied on the ‘Triple J’-Jal (water), Jungle (forest), and Jameen (land), which have been significantly impacted by extractive activities. In this context, the study shall examine the regional Resource Nexus to identify critical interdependencies between key environmental resources and resource management strategies in coal-rich regions. Moreover, it shall explore how these interconnections can drive sustainable regional transformations while supporting the core objectives of social justice and the equitable transition principles of a just transition.

The bottom-up approach of the study will involve exploring on-the-ground perspectives, community-driven initiatives, and institutional roles to provide a contextualised solution for regional transformation. In highlighting the viewpoints of a range of actors, formal and informal workers, and dependent communities, a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities brought about by the transition can be developed. The role of governance, policy frameworks, and government programs that can support the just transition and regional Resource Nexus shall also be assessed, with the objective of compiling best practice approaches and policy recommendations to facilitate regional transformations.

CV

Education:

Since 10/2024
Doctoral Candidate at the Dresden Leibniz Graduate School (DLGS); the United Nations University-Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES); and Dresden University of Technology (TUD)

08/2020 – 07/2022
Ranchi University, Jharkhand, India   `          
Academic Degree: M.Sc. Environmental Science

06/2008 - 03/2010
Xavier Institute of Social Service, Jharkhand, India
Academic Degree: Post Graduate Diploma in Rural Development

Professional Experience:

07/2023-03/2024
International Sustainability Academy, SDW, Hamburg, Germany
Research Fellow

09/2022-09/2023
FossilExit Research Group, Europa Universität Flensburg, Germany
Associate Research Fellow

03/2022-07/2022
International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology (iFOREST), India
State Coordinator-Just Transition

10/2017 – 02/2020
Centre for Science and Environment, Delhi, India
Deputy Programme Manager

06/2016 – 09/2017
Rural Development Department (Panchayati Raj), Government of Jharkhand, India
Rural Development Expert

04/2012 – 12/2015
Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India
Prime Minister’s Rural Development Fellow

04/2010 – 02/2012
Lohardaga Gram Swarajya Sansthan, Jharkhand, India
Research officer