Grandparents as living libraries of wisdom, values and lived experiences hold key to reconnect youth with environmental consciousness: Dr Manju Baghmar, Rajasthan’s Women and Child Development Minister
The first Yuva Sustainability Conference aims to promote intergenerational storytelling, inspiring youth climate action and a greener, more resilient India
09/07/2025
While unveiling the official poster of the inaugural Yuva Sustainability Conference, themed
Sustainability Storytelling for Green India: A Movement to Empower Youth, Rajasthan’s Minister for Women and Child Development, Dr Manju Baghmar highlighted the value of traditional knowledge,
She described grandparents — dada, dadi, nana and nani — as “living libraries of wisdom, values, and lived experiences.” She reflected, “In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, their simple yet profound stories — rooted in village life, traditional practices, and nature’s rhythms — hold the key to reconnecting our youth with environmental consciousness.”
Speaking on the role of storytelling, Rajiv Tikoo, Convenor of the Voices of Bharat initiative led by Sustainability Karma, remarked, “When these stories are shared in intergenerational gatherings, they not only help preserve our cultural heritage but also sow seeds of environmental responsibility in young minds.”
As the implementing partner of Voices of Bharat: Yuva for Sustainability, Lok Samvad Sansthan is leading efforts to engage educational institutions in sustained climate dialogue and grassroots environmental action throughout the year.
“The aim of sustainability storytelling for green India,” noted Kalyan Singh Kothari, Secretary of Lok Samvad Sansthan, “is to empower young people to carry forward the timeless values of their grandparents — blending ancient wisdom with modern climate action to build a greener, more resilient India.”
Scheduled to be held on 21 July 2025 at Kanoria PG Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Jaipur, the one-day Yuva Sustainability Conference will be inaugurated by Shri Sanjay Sharma, Minister for Environment and Forest. The conference will also have speakers like Dr Baghmar and celebrated water conservationist Rajendra Singh, a Ramon Magsaysay Awardee. Delegates will include students from universities and colleges across Rajasthan. Veteran storyteller Neetaji Raisurana will be also amongst the speakers.
