Welcome to the season premiere of Voicing Youth Research from the Centre for Innovation and Sustainability (CIS)! This season, we’re bringing our youth-led research to the forefront, pairing our young researchers with leading experts to give a fresh, youth-focused look at today’s biggest policy issues.
In our first episode, we dive into India's evolving digital healthcare landscape. Our host, Teresa Kuruvila and CIS Research Fellow, Aditya Prakash Magdum, sit down with global health specialist Sireesha Perabathina to unpack the complexities of the system. They’ll clear up common misconceptions about the Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA), reimagine the future of Primary Health Centres, and discuss the critical policy shifts needed to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
But this isn't just a technical discussion. We also explore the future: How can young people from diverse fields like tech, design, and public policy help drive this transformation, and what does genuine youth engagement actually look like?
Episode Highlights :
How does a youth-led volunteering organization see itself, and how is it perceived by the world around it?
In this introspective episode of A Tryst with Statecraft’s Insider Conversations, host Teresa Kuruvila delves into the public perception of Project Statecraft with Riya K. Hira, our Learning Experience Designer and Chief Programs Officer, and Sudharma Dwadasi, a communications professional, former Head of Public Relations, and Advisor.
The discussion offers a unique look at Project Statecraft's evolution, highlighting its shift in thematic areas from leadership and sustainable development goals to civic engagement, climate, and gender. Riya emphasizes the organization's commitment to learning from its failures and creating inclusive spaces for young people.
Sudharma provides valuable insights into the challenges of crafting effective messaging for education and capacity building, particularly in reaching diverse audiences. He underscores the importance of experimentation and resilience in communication.
The conversation further explores Project Statecraft's innovative approach to education, focusing on experiential learning and empowering young people as changemakers. Riya highlights the organization's initiative to reinvent learning experiences and foster a sense of contribution among young learners.
Tune into the conversation and gain valuable insights into our journey, challenges, and vision for the future.
Join host Teresa Kuruvila in this episode of Insider Conversations, produced by Ananya, as we sit down with Sangyukta Das, Editor-in-Chief at Project Statecraft (PSC), and Zeeshan Ali, Director of Public Policy. They share their journeys in leadership, policy research, and youth empowerment, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the organization.
Sangyukta, an environmental economics and policy expert from the London School of Economics, and Zeeshan, a policy strategist specializing in national security and foreign policy, discuss their transition into leadership roles at PSC. They reflect on their early assignments, team dynamics, and the pivotal moments that shaped their paths.
We explore how PSC adapted to the challenges of remote work during the COVID era and the evolving landscape of policy engagement in the attention economy. Zeeshan and Sangyukta candidly discuss navigating setbacks, handling leadership pressures, and keeping their teams motivated through uncertainty.
From overcoming remote collaboration challenges to their motivations for staying in a virtual-first organization, this conversation offers key insights into leadership, resilience, and the future of PSC.
Tune in for an exclusive look at what drives the leaders of PSC and where the organization is headed next!
Welcome to the season premiere of Insider Conversations. In this episode, we delve into the genesis of policy research at Project Statecraft (PSC) with founder Abhishek Sudke and Shreyas Ashok Kumar, advisor and former VP of Data Analytics.
We explore why the research was the foundational division of PSC. Shreyas details the importance of data and integrity focus on the overall research processes that have driven PSC's evidence-based approach. We tackle the contemporary debate surrounding the boon or bane of AI in data analytics and research, specifically addressing its implications for public policy.
Abhishek shares proud achievements from PSC's journey and offers practical advice to young individuals considering a career in public policy. They both provide insights into an area of public policy they wish PSC was more involved in, and they'll candidly discuss some of the initiatives that PSC had in mind but didn't come to fruition. Finally, we discuss what's next for PSC, outlining the organization's future direction.
In our final episode of this season, we dive into the transformative potential of AI for digital health and the central role young people play in its future with Pallavi Jain, Program Lead (Digital Health) and Secretariat Lead of Youth Ownership of Digital Health (YoDH) at PATH. With over a decade of expertise in the development sector, Pallavi shares her perspective on how innovative technologies are reshaping healthcare access and delivery, especially in marginalized communities.
This conversation explores:
● Potential of AI and digital transformation to make healthcare accessible and affordable to millions of people in India.
● Challenges in implementing digital tools in underserved areas—and solutions to overcome them.
● The importance of disseminating policies that regulate AI, telemedicine, and wearables among the users, especially young people, to ensure equity and accountability.
● The role of youth in shaping inclusive, scalable digital health solutions through participation and representation across levels and sectors.
● Efforts to engage young people on platforms such as YoDH and the future dividends it would pay in the form of improved solutions.
From bridging the digital divide to fostering accessible and personalized healthcare technologies, this episode provides actionable insights for anyone invested in the future of healthcare.
How can we make digital health technologies accessible, scalable, and equitable for all?
Stream now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred platform to explore these critical issues.
Tune into the latest episode of A Tryst with Statecraft to get a window into the webinar that explores the intersection of gender and climate change with host Abhishek Sudke and expert panelists Rajeshwari Sahay and Mitali Nikore.
This insightful discussion sheds light on how climate change disproportionately impacts women and marginalized communities, intensifying risks such as safety concerns, livelihood loss, and unpaid care work in both urban and rural settings.
Our panel delves into critical topics, including:
• The importance of gender-sensitive, climate-resilient infrastructure and policies.
• Grassroots-level behavior change and communication to drive inclusive solutions.
• Strategies for bridging the gender-climate gap for a just and sustainable future.
How can we design solutions that empower vulnerable communities while fostering resilience?
About the panelists:
Rajeshwari Sahay – Strategic Communications Expert, G20 India Secretariat
With vast experience in communications for major global issues, including climate change and digital infrastructure, Rajeshwari has been pivotal in shaping India's G20 media narrative.
Mitali Nikore – Founder, Nikore Associates
A pioneering economist and advisor to multilateral organizations like the World Bank and GIZ, Mitali specializes in gender mainstreaming and sustainable development. Her work is featured in major publications and news platforms globally.
Listen now on your preferred streaming platform, or access it using the link in the comments!
India stands at the forefront of a digital transformation, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to bridge divides, empower communities, and fuel economic growth. In our conversation with Aakash Guglani, we delve into AI's critical role in reshaping India’s digital economy, exploring how the nation’s digital initiatives foster inclusivity and innovation.
Aakash Guglani is a Manager at the Digital India Foundation, focusing on policy research and advocacy, with an emphasis on leveraging technology to improve governance, national security, and the adoption of emerging technologies. DIF works with diverse stakeholders, including government bodies, civil society organizations, and academic institutions, to analyze complex issues surrounding data governance, technology policy, and the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Aakash completed his postgraduate studies in Liberal Studies at Ashoka University and received his Bachelor's degree in Management Studies from Delhi University. Passionate about fostering research-driven policy-making, he is committed to contributing to India's social and economic development through evidence-based policy solutions.
In the episode, we discuss India’s push for accessible technology, including integrating open Large Language Models (LLMs) in local languages and making digital resources accessible to marginalized communities in a diverse society. With a foundational digital infrastructure established through initiatives like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), India’s digital strategy is expanding market access and broadening financial inclusion. By fostering open data access and building a digital infrastructure that empowers the private sector and startups, India is laying the groundwork for a vibrant digital economy that benefits all.
We examine how AI technologies bring both promise and risk. While AI can improve public service delivery and enhance accessibility, it also poses challenges, including the spread of misinformation and deepfake technology. How can India’s regulatory frameworks encourage responsible AI use and ensure its benefits are shared across diverse communities? With insights into India's National AI Strategy and discussions around regulatory and ethical concerns, we explore what it will take to create a responsible, inclusive, and innovative AI-powered future for India.
Furthermore, we tackle pressing economic questions, such as how India can balance the drive toward AI-driven automation while enabling job creation in a country with a young, rapidly growing workforce.
Join us on this journey as we uncover the opportunities and challenges of AI in India’s dynamic digital landscape.
In the inaugural episode of our latest season, we are joined by Siddharth Sinha to discuss the transformative role of AI in addressing climate change. Siddharth Sinha is a renowned climate policy expert with vast experience in tech-driven climate solutions, sustainability, and policy advocacy. He is a Yale Climate Fellow and works as Geo and Sustainability Policy Lead at Google, where he has been instrumental in implementing innovative technologies to solve pressing environmental challenges, particularly in the Global South. Siddharth has worked with the Government of India at NITI Aayog and the G20 Secretariat, contributing to cutting-edge research and strategic policy development.
The episode delves into how AI is revolutionizing our ability to predict climate scenarios, adapt to the unique climate challenges in the Global South, and create resilient urban environments in the face of emergencies. We also explore the crucial role of youth involvement in pushing for AI-driven climate policies, highlighting their dedication to fostering a more sustainable and equitable future.
From addressing the specific needs of vulnerable regions to enhancing rapid response efforts in cities, AI's adaptability is proving to be a game-changer in the fight against climate change. This conversation examines the ways AI is already making an impact and what the future holds for integrating technology into environmental policy at a global scale.
The episode concludes with Siddharth emphasizing the importance of leveraging AI as a tool not only for climate resilience but also for empowering communities and fostering collaboration across sectors. The intersection of AI, climate policy, and youth activism marks a critical shift in how we tackle the climate crisis in an increasingly complex world.
In this episode, we are joined by Ms. Jyotsna Mehra to discuss India's evolving role in a multipolar world. Ms. Mehra is a highly accomplished Foreign Policy professional and founder of Closed Door Policy Consulting. With her extensive experience in research, analysis, advocacy, and strategic communication, she has contributed significantly to shaping foreign policy through her consulting work with India's Ministry of External Affairs and Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. She holds a degree in Modern South Asian Studies from the University of Oxford, focusing on international relations, and a bachelor's degree in Politics and International Relations from the University of Manchester. Her contributions extend globally through her association with leading think tanks across the UK, US, and India, and as the 2021 South Asian Voices Visiting Fellow at the Stimson Center in Washington, DC.
The episode explores India's evolving role in a multipolar world, shedding light on how the country has refined its foreign policy to adapt to changing global dynamics. Jyotsna delves into multi-alignment and strategic autonomy, often conflated in discussions, and examines how India has navigated these principles throughout its history.
From its early years as a newly independent nation, economically fragile and situated in a world divided by two dominant superpowers, India adopted a stance of ideological distancing. Over the last decade, India has leveraged partnerships and collaborations with the national interest at its core, advancing the ideas of multi-alignment and strategic autonomy. The country has also worked on diversifying its dependencies and reducing them by fostering Indigenous development in key areas such as energy and defense.
India’s Act East and Neighbourhood First policies have not only enhanced its standing in the domestic politics of neighboring countries but also strengthened its influence in the broader global order. These policies have helped India cultivate goodwill and reinforce its position as a key player in regional and international politics.
The episode concludes with Jyotsna emphasizing the crucial role of hard power in shaping India’s future in global politics. She argues that while military and economic strength will be the primary drivers of India’s influence on the world stage, soft power—through cultural diplomacy, international goodwill, and strategic partnerships—can effectively complement this. However, she strongly believes that hard power will be the decisive factor in securing India's place in a competitive and increasingly multipolar world.
Don't miss out on this episode which offers a nuanced perspective on India’s foreign policy evolution, providing an in-depth look at the nation's strategy for navigating global complexities while reinforcing its position as a major player in international relations.
Episode 2: Rise of the Global South: Geopolitics, Trade, Sustainability, and Youth
In this insightful episode of A Tryst with Statecraft, host Teresa Kuruvila engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tanya Vatsa, a leading Geopolitical Risk Intelligence Specialist, to explore the transformative rise of the Global South and its implications for the global order.
The episode delves into how the economic growth of countries in the Global South challenges the long-standing dominance of Western economies, reshaping global trade patterns and forging new economic alliances. Tanya provides an in-depth analysis of the sustainability challenges these emerging powers face, highlighting their potential impact on global economic stability.
With a focus on the shifting geopolitical landscape, the discussion turns to how the growing prominence of the Global South is driving the restructuring of global institutions. India's leadership in the G20 is examined, particularly its role in bringing the concerns of the Global South to the forefront of global governance, advocating for climate finance, technology transfer, and the historic inclusion of the African Union into the G20.
The conversation also touches upon the dynamic role of youth in the Global South, exploring how this generational shift is redefining the region’s role on the global stage and influencing the broader dynamics of global power and governance.
Tune in for a compelling episode that blends historical context with current geopolitical developments, offering a nuanced perspective on the rise of the Global South and its future trajectory. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the changing world order, sustainability, and the evolving role of emerging economies in global governance.
In this special Independence Day episode we delve into the maritime efforts of the Indian Navy, particularly in the face of climate change, unregulated fishing, and unconventional security threats. The conversation also shed light on the critical role of the Merchant Navy in India's economic future and international trade in the region.
This episode explores the crucial role of the Indian Navy as first responders and protectors of the Indian Ocean and its islands, emphasizing their leadership in safeguarding the region. We also discuss the stark contrast between India and China's naval and diplomatic strategies, highlighting why India remains a trusted partner for countries in the region. The episode also highlights the growing threat of China against freedom of navigation and fiscal survival of developing countries in the region.
Through inspiring naval stories, we celebrate the unwavering commitment of the Indian Navy to the people of the Global South. This episode sets the stage for an engaging Season 4, rich with insights into India's strategic maritime position.
Indian Navy’s Role in Climate and Disaster Response and Mitigation
The Indian Navy has taken a frontier position in responding to climate-induced disasters and environmental threats in the Indian Ocean region. Their proactive engagement in disaster relief, environmental conservation, and climate response efforts demonstrates their unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable coastal communities and ecosystems.
Contrasting Naval Strategies and Diplomacy: India / China
This episode sheds light on the differing naval strategies of India and China within the Indian Ocean. While China’s approach is marked by debt-trap diplomacy, assertive territorial claims, and expansion, India emphasises cooperative security, respect for international norms, and building strong, trust-based relationships with its maritime neighbours. This stark contrast has positioned India as a trusted partner in the region.
India’s Maritime Security for the Global South
India’s maritime strategy extends beyond national defence to encompass the security and prosperity of the broader Global South. By prioritising freedom of navigation, regional cooperation, and multilateral engagements, India plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and security in the Indian Ocean, making it a dependable ally for smaller nations in the region. The changing dynamics in the IOR region has massive implications for the geopolitics and power balance of the region. The episode delves into approaches, agreements and technologies adopted by India to ensure freedom of navigation.
Role of Young People in India’s Maritime Future
The episode also highlights the importance of engaging India’s youth in maritime activities, particularly in conservation and sustainable management of the Indian Ocean’s resources. The discussion underscores how the next generation can contribute to preserving marine ecosystems and enhancing India’s maritime capabilities for a secure and sustainable future.
Stories of Protection against Unconventional Threats and Effects of Climate Change
Through a series of inspiring stories, the episode showcases the Indian Navy’s efforts in protecting the region from unconventional threats, such as piracy, illegal fishing, and environmental degradation. These accounts not only highlight the Navy’s role in maritime security but also their broader mission to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of those in the Global South from the adverse effects of climate change.
This episode marks the beginning of Season 4, offering listeners an insightful and pride-filled journey into the strategic and humanitarian efforts of the Indian Navy as they navigate an increasingly complex maritime landscape.
In this episode of "A Tryst with Statecraft," we are joined by Soham Kshirsagar from the Office of the G20 Sherpa and the World Resources Institute India. The conversation delves into Soham's experiences and insights, shedding light on the intersection of youth engagement, climate policy, and energy transition.
We begin by exploring Soham's role within the G20 Sherpa Office, discussing the nature of his involvement and the early career experiences that paved the way for his current position. Soham reflects on his research specialisation and the impactful outputs achieved during his tenure.
The discussion then moves to the critical topic of youth engagement in climate policy. As a younger member of the G20 Sherpa team, Soham shares his observations on how youth voices are influencing climate decisions and highlights successful instances of intergenerational collaboration within the team.
Transitioning to his role at the World Resources Institute India, Soham offers valuable insights into the potential of hydrogen as a future fuel. He elaborates on India's ambitious net zero target for 2070 and outlines the roadmap for transitioning to greener fuels.
Soham also addresses the concerns of young listeners, providing guidance on how they can position themselves to leverage opportunities in the burgeoning green hydrogen sector and drive the future of energy transition.
Finally, in keeping with our tradition, we ask Soham to look ahead and identify the most promising avenues for youth to influence global climate policy. He offers practical advice on how young people can prepare themselves to take on leadership roles in the climate policy space.
Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic role of youth in shaping climate policy and the future of energy transition.
In Season 3, Episode 2 of "A Tryst with Statecraft," we delve into the dynamic and essential role of youth in climate change advocacy. Hosted by Teresa Kuruvila from the Editorial Board, this episode features a compelling conversation with Abhiir Bhalla, a renowned youth environmentalist and sustainability consultant. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities in driving climate action in India, especially among the younger generation.
Episode Highlights:
Climate Change and Electoral Importance: Despite the alarming rates of air pollution in tier 1 cities and other environmental hazards, climate change continues to receive minimal electoral attention in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. Abhiir discusses strategies to elevate the urgency of climate change in the minds of voters and underscores the critical role youth can play in this transformation.
Balancing Development and Conservation: As debates on “climate debt” and the responsibilities of developed versus developing countries intensify, Abhiir offers insights into whether India should prioritize development over environmental conservation or strive for a balanced approach that addresses both crucial aspects.
Effective Strategies for Air Pollution Mitigation: Air pollution is a central focus of Abhiir's advocacy. He shares the most effective strategies for promoting behaviour change, particularly among youth, and reflects on the challenges and surprising insights encountered in influencing public attitudes.
Environmental Justice and Marginalized Communities: Addressing environmental justice is vital for sustainable development. Abhiir discusses how sustainability initiatives can be tailored to address the concerns of marginalized or vulnerable communities, ensuring equitable benefits from environmental improvements.
Actionable Advice for Young Activists: Drawing from his extensive experience as a sustainability consultant and policy advocate, Abhiir provides actionable advice for young activists and aspiring environmentalists eager to make meaningful contributions to environmental protection and sustainability.
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on youth-led climate advocacy and discover how you can contribute to creating sustainable communities. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about environmental issues and eager to drive change.
In the first episode of the third season of A Tryst with Statecraft by Project Statecraft, Teresa Kuruvila, our host, sits down with Heeta Lakhani, Founder & Director of The ClimAct Initiative and Co-Founder of the Youth Negotiators Academy. The third season explores the unique connection and perspective of youth working and achieving milestones in the climate space.
This episode, "Involving and Empowering Youth in Climate Negotiations Inclusively," delves into the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future of climate action and negotiations.
Heeta Lakhani shares her innovative approach to climate education in India, focusing on empowering young people through sustainable daily practices, from mindful consumption to effective waste management at the community level. She advocates for a shift in mindset among schools, parents, and students to elevate the importance of climate education as an academic subject.
The discussion highlights Heeta's efforts with the Youth Negotiators Academy to include and empower youth in global climate negotiations. She explains how young people can bring sustainable practices from the fringes to the mainstream and reshape the predominant narratives on climate change, emphasizing the impacts and undeniable effects on our biodiversity and environment rather than just emissions.
Heeta and Teresa explore the concept of learning and unlearning in the context of climate change, addressing the unique hurdles Indian youth face in becoming a powerful demographic advocating for climate action. Heeta contrasts the policy inclusion for youth in India with that in developed economies, underscoring the differences in ecosystems and the crucial need for India to navigate this policy landscape effectively.
Tune in to this episode for an enlightening conversation on the holistic approach to climate education and the critical role of youth in driving sustainable change and influencing global climate policies.
Join us for a compelling episode where we delve into the vital topic of Gender Equity in Technology Access, uncovering the challenges and uncovering opportunities for enhancing livelihoods. Our guest, Mousumi Kabiraj, a Research Analyst at the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), brings invaluable insights from her work on gender inclusion in energy-livelihood sectors.
What to Expect in This Episode:
Identifying the Barriers: We begin by discussing the significant hurdles that women encounter in accessing and utilizing technology for their livelihoods. Mousumi sheds light on the socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural challenges that persist.
Policy Solutions: Explore the effective strategies and policies that can promote gender equity in technology access. Mousumi highlights impactful initiatives that have successfully empowered women through technology.
Impact Across Spheres: How does the disparity in technology access affect women's opportunities in education, employment, and healthcare? We look at how these inequalities affect various facets of life.
Reaching the Unreached: Mousumi discusses ways to ensure that technology reaches not only urban women but also those in remote and rural regions, fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities.
The Power of Digital Literacy: Discover how digital literacy can empower women, bridge the technology gap, and create a more equitable digital landscape.
Inclusive Tech Development: We conclude by examining the impact of gender diversity in the tech industry and discussing approaches to develop more inclusive technologies.
Meet Our Guest: Mousumi Kabiraj is not only a researcher but a passionate advocate for empowering women through innovative and sustainable technology solutions. Her experiences range from grassroots projects in rural India to influential policy-making discussions, making her a formidable voice in the drive for gender equity.
Mousumi is a Research Analyst in the Powering Livelihoods team at The Council. She is involved in ideating, researching, and writing knowledge products about the best practices to effectively integrate gender inclusion among energy-livelihood businesses.
Before joining The Council, Mousumi worked with Indian Grameen Services. She primarily focused on developing project ideas on natural resource-based, climate-resilient and gender-focused livelihood opportunities for rural communities. In addition, she was engaged as a researcher in the GiZ project to assess the potential of renewable energy interventions in the fishery value chain in West Bengal, India.
Mousumi is also a Fellow at the Young Women Leaders Fellowship, a 6-month program conducted by The Red Door to nurture young women leaders in the areas of gender, disability, mental health, and sexuality. During her tenure, she participated in 'The Red Door Resilience Project' and designed modules for the Resilience Building workshop from a gender lens for young girls in Madhya Pradesh.
Mousumi holds a postgraduate degree in Conservation and Livelihood Management from the Indian Institute of Forest Management, Madhya Pradesh, and an undergraduate degree in Mathematics Honours from the University of Calcutta. During her Masters, she interned with the Foundation for Ecological Security to conduct the longitudinal assessment of Satkosia Watershed in Odisha. Along with, assessing the impact of watershed management on empowering women by applying the Women Empowerment Index developed by The Hunger Project.
We invite you to listen, learn, and engage with us as we tackle these crucial issues together, striving for a future where technology access is truly equitable. Join the conversation and be part of the change!
In this episode of Tryst with Statecraft, titled "Policy for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods," we delve into the heart of rural India, exploring the dynamics of sustainable livelihoods against the backdrop of the country's economic and social landscapes. Join us as our host, Loveneet, Associate Editor at Project Statecraft, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with our distinguished guest, Ms. Divya Gaur, Programme Associate, Powering Livelihood, at the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water.
1. Understanding Sustainable Rural Livelihoods: We kick off the episode with Divya breaking down the concept of sustainable rural livelihoods, providing a comprehensive view of how these livelihoods are defined within the unique context of rural India's economic and social settings.
2. Impact of Policy Changes and Government Initiatives: Recent agricultural reforms have stirred nationwide protests and discussions. Divya shares her insights into how these policy shifts and government initiatives are impacting sustainable rural livelihoods. Her expertise sheds light on how clean energy can catalyze enhancing these livelihoods, offering a ray of hope amidst the controversies.
3. Empowering Through Clean Energy: The conversation then navigates towards the critical issue of labor force participation among women and other genders in rural areas. Divya discusses the transformative power of clean energy in empowering women and creating new livelihood opportunities, backed by compelling examples from her field experiences.
4. Reaching the Unreached: As many clean energy technologies are designed for rural and remote areas, our guests ponder over the strategies to ensure these innovations reach those who need them the most. This segment explores the challenges of accessibility and the steps needed to bridge the gap between technology and its beneficiaries.
5. Overcoming Barriers: Lastly, the episode addresses the hurdles hindering the adoption of sustainable practices in rural India. Divya offers practical solutions and forward-thinking approaches to overcome these obstacles, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous rural India.
Through this episode, "Policy for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods," listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and opportunities within rural India's pursuit of sustainability. Join Loveneet and Divya as they unravel the layers of policy, technology, and community engagement essential for fostering sustainable rural livelihoods.
Guest Profile:
Divya Gaur is a social impact professional focussed on working towards augmenting the positive socio-economic environmental changes at the grassroots level with a data-driven approach. At The Council, Divya is a part of the Powering Livelihoods team and looks into the impact measurement and integrating gender inclusivity in the design of the initiative.
Previously, Divya has worked with Sattva Consulting as a Social Impact Consultant in their Impact Measurement and Advisory team, where she evaluated multiple development programs implemented by social sector organizations and helped maximize their impact on the ground through data-driven decision-making. Divya is also an entrepreneurship enthusiast and has conceptualized ideas at the intersection of women empowerment and sustainability such as zero waste and sustainable clothing. Divya also supports social enterprises that focus on gender inclusion, for design and implementation, on a pro bono basis.
Divya holds a Master's in Economics from TERI University and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Delhi University.
Season 2 | Episode 1
In the premiere episode of the second season titled Reaching Communities, Bridging Identities, the podcast - A Tryst with Statecraft ventured into the complexities of policy-making through the experienced lens of Teres Sajeev, a Convergence Consultant with the Government of Tamil Nadu. Hosted by Teresa Kuruvila, this episode unfolded an in-depth exploration of how diverse identities and communities are incorporated into the policy-making landscape.
The dialogue initiated with a critical examination of representation within policy formulation, revealing Teres's insights on the disproportionate representation of certain groups and its ramifications on societal progress. She posited open public involvement as a potential catalyst for more equitable and sustainable growth across the nation.
As the conversation advanced, sustainability and community development emerged as focal points, underscoring the intrinsic link between these aspects and effective policy-making. Teres illuminated the challenges and opportunities in integrating sustainability with policies, especially in India's rural contexts, and proposed ways to achieve balance among economic, social, and environmental objectives while ensuring inclusive community participation and gender parity.
The episode also tackled the engagement of the youth in public policy, spotlighting their heightened interest during periods of media-amplified governmental issues. Teres shared her perspective on the evident detachment among young adults from the policy-making process due to its political connotations and offered encouragement for their active involvement, highlighting the transformative potential awaiting them.
If the discussion allowed, Teres was asked to identify a specific community development policy in need of critical reassessment, providing thoughtful reflections on necessary amendments.
The episode wrapped up with Teres discussing her contribution to a Times of India article that acclaimed Tamil Nadu's strides in gender parity. This segment offered listeners a glimpse into her research and the significant impact of her work on policy inclusivity and women's empowerment.
"Reaching Communities, Bridging Identities" served as a compelling narrative, blending Teres Sajeev's professional journey and insightful analyses with the series' overarching theme of examining public policy and development through the voices of young professionals in India.
