Centre for New Economics Studies AVAROHANA April 2024 Advocating together for Gender & Environment In conversation with Prof. Prakhar Pandey Pg 14 / Expert Interview Environment , Sustainability & Inclusivity Pg 20 Roots and Rhythms: Portraits of Sustainability and Community in Transition Pg 06 Parched Power: Water Scarcity and Its Disproportionate Impact on Women Pg 28 Avarohana’s Must Reads
AVAROHANA April 2024 Volume I Issue III Issued by Swabhimaan, Centre for New Economics Studies Jindal School of Liberal Arts and Humanities Jindal Global University, Sonipat The textual content contained within this newsletter is owned by the Centre for New Economics Studies, Jindal Global University, and should not be recreated, reproduced, or republished in any form without explicit permission. This publication is intended solely for educational purposes. The views expressed herein are solely those of the contributors. Website: www.swaabhimaancnes.in Instagram: @swabhimaan.cnes Email: [email protected] Published on 30th April, 2024
TABLE OF CONTENTS 28 29 ADVOCATING TOGETHER FOR GENDER & ENVIRONMENT AVAROHANA MUST READS In Conversation with Prof. Prakhar Pandey | By Jui Chawan Book Recommendations | By Nandita Purvi Durugam 6 22 PARCHED POWER: WATER SCARCITY AND ITS DISPROPORTIONATE IMPACT ON WOMEN NEWSBITS Feature Article | By Nandita Purvi Durugam, Prabhroop Kaur & Jigyasa Maloo from Team Swabhimaan Recent News Around Gender | By Savya Atrey 1 EDITOR’S NOTE On the theme of ‘Environment, Sustainability & Inclusivity’ 5 INTRODUCTIONS 14 PERSONAL REFLECTION 27 GENDER AROUND US By Shreyoshi Roy Chowdhury Faculty Advisors, Team Swabhimaan & Special Contributors 20 ROOTS AND RHYTHMS: PORTRAITS OF SUSTAINABILITY AND COMMUNITY IN TRANSITION PHOTO REFLECTIONS By Tanvi Mehta 23 A Photographic Investigation | Prabhroop Kaur, Jui Chawan & Adya Manchanda Photo Essay in Collaboration with JGU Aperture | Srijan Sonkar & Suhani Sharma AVAROHANA DOCU RECOMMENDATIONS What to watch next…| By Suhani Sharma 32 35 CROSSWORD By Nandita Purvi Durugam
Page 1 Avarohana Faculty Advisors PROFESSOR DEEPANSHU MOHAN PROFESSOR DR. NISHA NAIR PROFESSOR SRITI GANGULY SHREYASHI SHARMA DR TANYA MANDER
Swabhimaan Team Page 2 Avarohana Adya Manchanda is a first year student of LLB. (Hons.) Programme at Jindal Global Law School. She completed her undergraduate degree in Sociology (Hons.) from Jesus and Mary College, University of Delhi. She is currently associated with the Centre for New Economic Studies as a Research Intern. By joining the centre, she wishes to further flesh out her understanding of gender and how it interacts with various spheres of life in a dynamic and multifaceted manner. Suhani Sharma is currently pursuing law at Jindal Global Law School. With a background in Political Science from Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi, she is inspired to explore the complexities of law and society from assorted social science perspectives. She is a Research Intern at CNES. Jui Chawan is currently a student at the Jindal Global Law School. Prior to this, she has studied economics and gender theory. Her interests lie at the intersection of gender, marginalisation and development. She is an amateur storyteller and loves to weave narratives with poetry and photography. Team Lead Nandita Purvi Durgam is a third year BA LLB student at Jindal Global University. She is currently a Research Intern at CNES. Through Swabhimaan, she aims to engage in self-reflection, fostering a journey towards enhancing her philosophical approach to life. Savya Atrey is a third year economics student at the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy. Her passion lies in examining gender issues through the lens of modern policy and theories. Through Swabhimaan she hopes to enact meaningful change within the community, while amplifying critical conversations.
Page 3 Avarohana Swabhimaan Team Sampada Aggarwal is a second-year economics student at the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy. She is passionate about telling compelling stories that explore the intersection of gender and economics, advocating for gender equality every step of the way. Through her work at Swabhimaan, she aims to foster a more inclusive and equitable society by challenging stereotypes and amplifying marginalized voices, drawing inspiration from her deep appreciation for poetry and literature. Jigyasa Maloo is pursuing Masters in Diplomacy, Law and Business from the Jindal School of International Affairs. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Kolkata. She is currently a columnist and research intern at CNES. Her areas of interest lie in conflict, peace, and human security, particularly in the Middle East and the Sahel region. Prabhroop Kaur is a second-year undergraduate student at the Jindal School of Environment and Sustainability, where she began examining issues through a gender lens after discovering the intersection between gender and the environmental crisis. Motivated by personal experiences and a dedication to challenging gender stereotypes, Swabhiman offers her the ideal platform to advocate for gender equality and amplify her voice. Anu Chauhan is a first-year Master's student pursuing studies in diplomacy, law, and business. She completed her undergraduate degree in history Hons. from the University of Delhi. Currently, she is working as a research intern at NKCSEAS and is currently a research intern at CNES. Her area of interest lies in international relations, and her professional knowledge of history provides her with a unique insight into matters through the historical lens.
Cover Page Page 4 Avarohana Jui Chawan, a part of Team Swabhimaan. She is an amateur photographer who believes that every photo has a story to tell!
Page 5 Avarohana Editor ’ s Note Avarohana, a term derived from the context of raga, embodies our commitment to exploring and reflecting on the intricate dimensions of gender. As a monthly publication, Avarohana is dedicated to illuminating the multifaceted interplay between gender dynamics, economic policies, and societal structures, fostering a discourse that is both introspective and geared towards catalysing change for more equitable and inclusive socio-economic frameworks. This month’s edition demystifies the intricacies of environment, sustainability, and inclusivity through a gendered lens. The dynamic intersectionality with gender has been definitive for decades, with distinct deep-seated gender roles. Of acute concern, is the disproportionate burden that women and marginalised communities wrestle with due to environmental predicaments. The pressing landscape, therefore entails a more proactive approach - to problematise the nexus between gender, and environment, but also to transcend and explore sustainability, and inclusivity as drivers of change and betterment. The edition delves into ways to implement policies that empower women and marginalised communities as a catalyst for change - through community development and leadership roles. While also recognising the impediment in any potential policy frameworks due to gender disparities. The April issue would unravel this through a constellation of critical pieces, enthralling visuals, and enlightening interviews and conversations. We extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to our team, faculty advisors, field experts, and all contributors who have made this release possible. Team Swabhimaan
Parched Power: Water Scarcity and Its Disproportionate Impact on Women PHOTO FEATURED IN THE CONVERSATION/REUTERS By Nandita Purvi Durugam, Prabhroop Kaur and Jigyasa Maloo from Team Swabhimaan FEATURE ARTICLE Page 6 Avarohana
Page 7 Avarohana ‘We are currently facing a water crisis that can be seen and felt in a multitude of ways’ -Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO PARCHED POWER: WATER SCARCITY AND ITS DISPROPORTIONATE IMPACT ON WOMEN While water scarcity is a global phenomenon exacerbated by climate change and rapid industrialization, it presents unique and severe implications through a gendered lens. This crisis is not merely a shortage of a crucial resource but a profound social challenge that disproportionately affects women and marginalised communities. These groups find themselves at a nexus of vulnerability, where water scarcity amplifies existing inequalities and exposes systemic failures in addressing their fundamental human rights. This paper delves into the intersectional impacts of water scarcity, emphasising the critical need for gender-specific analyses and interventions that go beyond mere access to include leadership and participatory governance in water management. Image by Noorani For UNICEF
Page 8 Avarohana Scarcity is either a physical scarcity due to ecological conditions or economic scarcity from lack of infrastructure. Water scarcity can be understood by quantity or quality issues. When the demand for water in a given area exceeds the supply, it indicates the issue of scarce water quantity. Beyond this, quality-related issues such as pollution and mismanagement can also lead to decreased water availability. Within the framework of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development advocated by the United Nations, are the historic 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 targets. These goals and targets promote a balanced relationship between human development and environmental sustainability, emphasising the urgency of revisiting our interaction with the planet. SDG 6, declares the need to “ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all” by 2030. SDG 6 focuses on six key targets ranging from equitable access to safe and clean drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene to sustainable water management and protection of the water-related ecosystems. Of which, target 6.2 makes an explicit reference to ‘paying The water crisis is ravaging worldwide, exacerbated by climate change and anthropogenic factors. Climate change has been disrupting weather patterns, causing extreme rainfall, increasing temperature, and shrinking ice sheets - all exerting pressure on water. About 74% of natural hazards between 2001 and 2018 were water-related disasters such as floods and droughts. Between 2002 - 2021, about 1.6 billion people were affected by floods, and 1.4 billion people were affected by droughts. With accelerating industrialization, urbanisation, and soaring population - the water demand has far exceeded its supply. This exceeding demand is forecasted to multiply by 20 to 30 percent by 2050. While currently, 2 billion people live in water-stressed countries, by 2025 it is projected that 50% of the world’s population could be living in waterstressed areas. Water scarcity is measured in terms of the population-water ratio. When the annual water supplies drop below 1,000 m3 per person, the population faces water scarcity, and below 500 cubic metres, the population faces absolute scarcity. According to UN Water, water scarcity is defined based on the following factors: scarcity in availability due to physical shortage, scarcity in access due to the failure of institutions to ensure a regular supply or a lack of adequate infrastructure.
Page 9 Avarohana deeply rooted in socio-cultural and institutional structures. The patriarchal system, characterised by male dominance and gender discrimination, significantly influences the allocation and accessibility of water resources, further exacerbating the hardships for these groups. Water scarcity intensifies the already strenuous tasks traditionally assigned to women and girls, primarily involving water retrieval. In many societies, fetching water is seen as a woman’s responsibility, often requiring them to travel long distances. This not only poses significant security risks but also restricts their opportunities for education and economic participation. The United Nations reports that in 2023, a staggering 380 million women and girls lived under high or critical water stress, a figure expected to rise significantly by 2030. The Feminist Political Ecology framework provides a lens through which the intersection of environmental issues and gender inequality can be examined. It shows how gendered power dynamics influence the distribution and management of natural resources, leading to unequal burdens on women. special attention to the needs of women and girls’. However, the recent reports by the United Nations World Water Development Report 2024, reveal the lack of progress, indicating the deficiencies in monitoring and reporting a thorough analysis of SDG 6 targets. As it is evident, 2.2 billion people i.e. 1 in 4 people, still lack safely managed drinking water at home, and 3.4 billion people i.e. 2 in 5 people, do not have safely managed sanitation. With a marked acknowledgment in their foreword - ‘We are currently facing a water crisis that can be seen and felt in a multitude of ways’, the report thus calls for urgent action on the impending Global Water Crisis. Furthermore, the water crisis is foremost a women’s issue - for women, water is personal. As a result, it becomes imperative to shed light on the water crisis through a gendered lens. Gendered Implications In the face of this escalating global water scarcity, the intersectional challenges that women and marginalised communities face are largely ignored. This crisis not only threatens their health and safety but also perpetuates existing inequalities,
Page 10 Avarohana Making water accessible in some parts of the world requires a huge investment of time. However, instead of walking or waiting- many households end up paying private vendors a huge share of their earnings to buy safe water. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to reshape policies and practices to prioritise gender equity in water management. This involves not only recognizing the specific needs and roles of women in water-related activities but also empowering them to participate fully in community water governance. Studies have shown that when women are involved in water management, the outcomes are more sustainable and effective in meeting the needs of the entire community. The stories of individuals like Juleha from Indonesia and Akali Tudu from India exemplify the impact that empowered women can have on local water management and community welfare. This imbalance is particularly pronounced in marginalised communities, such as those comprising indigenous populations, refugees, and women with disabilities, who already face significant barriers to accessing resources. The scarcity of water amplifies the vulnerability of these women to gender-based violence. Inadequate and unsecured water and sanitation facilities force women to compromise their safety. The need for secure, gendersegregated sanitation facilities is crucial for protecting women and girls from violence and providing them with dignity during menstruation and pregnancy. Furthermore, the economic impact of water scarcity disproportionately affects women. The time spent on water collection is time not spent on income-generating activities, education, or leisure, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and dependency. This is evident in the lives of many women in poorer regions, where a significant portion of household income is spent on securing water from private vendors, often at exorbitant rates. On a global average, female members of the household spend almost 200 million hours collecting water, almost equal to a year’s worth of labour. Photo from DownToEarth
Page 11 Avarohana vendors, whereas they need only a fraction of that to make water more accessible to them. The organisation tries to keep the dream of accessible water alive, through their water credit program. They break this down by providing affordable water and sanitation loans, by partnering with selected institutions. The organisation provides these institutions with the necessary expertise to add water and sanitation loans to their portfolio. People use these loans to put taps or build toilets in their homes. Repaid loans are lent to other families in need. To date, these loans have made a mark in 11 countries, changing the lives of nearly 63 million people. Community-Driven Water Solutions: Akali Tudu's Impact The Crucial Role of Women's Leadership in Climate Action Wells of Opportunity: Juleha's Journey Towards Water Security Juleha is a young woman from a small town on the coast of Indonesia, she lives with her family in a small house with no toilet or water connection. She works in a small factory, and her family struggles to make ends meet, but the worst part is - more than half of what they earn is spent on water. This story is not uncommon, the world’s poor often have to pay the largest amount of their income for water simply because they are not connected to a pipeline. This is where water.org’s water credit program comes in, making toilets and water financially available. They have realised that people in need are already paying high prices to private Juleha and her family: Image water.org Akali Tudu and her team planning: Image - Women Water Champions
Page 12 Avarohana significantly alleviate the burdens of water access, transforming lives through sustainable development. Akali's efforts in her community demonstrate the power of local initiative and collective action in enhancing water security and promoting agricultural sustainability. Together, these stories underscore the essential role of community-driven solutions and women's leadership in tackling global water challenges. Conclusion The issue of water scarcity is deeply sown in social hierarchies and gender disparities. Women are at the forefront of the impacts faced by a climate-affected world, carrying out unpaid household work and taking on additional burdens. This disproportionate burden borne by women, particularly in marginalised communities, reminds us of a broader pattern of inequity that permeates resource distribution and access globally. Efforts to mitigate the impacts of water scarcity must therefore prioritise gender equity and enhance the participation of women in water governance. This would enable them to bring unique perspectives and lived experiences that are essential while framing holistic solutions. Indigenous women, in particular, have valuable ancestral knowledge that Hailing from a remote village in East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand where villagers were facing acute water shortages, Akali Tudu recognized the power of collaborative effort to restore the previous resource. In the year 2012, she formed an SHG to collect funds for ‘water and agricultural work’. Despite the hindrances she faced due to the extremist element in the village, she managed to create 71 ponds and 7 drinking water facilities in the village. This effort created a pond-based ecosystem that also catered to employment needs in the village. As a result, water security within the village was strengthened. Her leadership was also focused on another aspect of water conservationRainwater harvesting. Through harvesting efforts, the village was able to improve the groundwater scenario in the village, directly impacting the cultivation of the Rabi crop. Akali’s perseverance sets a foundation for her plans of working with farmers to create a climate-resilient agricultural system. She also aims to create water harvesting structures in every field of her village. Juleha's experience highlights how innovative financial solutions like water.org's credit program can
Page 13 Avarohana might be a key solution to addressing climate change. Through the empowering stories of individuals like Juleha and Akali Tudu, we see the potential of localised, women-led initiatives that not only address immediate water needs but also foster long-term sustainability and resilience. These narratives are a clarion call for integrating feminist political ecology into water management policies and it is through such comprehensive and inclusive approaches that we can hope to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and forge a path towards a just and equitable water future for all. ReferencesUnited Nations Women. "From Commodity to Common Good: A Feminist Agenda to Tackle the World’s Water Crisis." UN Women, July 2023, https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/2023- 07/from-commodity-to-common-good-a-feministagenda-to-tackle-the-worlds-water-crisis-en.pdf. Rocheleau, Dianne. "Feminist Political Ecology and the Economics of Care." Diva Portal, https://www.divaportal.org/smash/get/diva2:1695115/FULLTEXT02. UN Water. "Water and Gender." United Nations, https://www.unwater.org/water-facts/water-andgender/. United Nations, “The United Nations World Water Development Report 2024: Water for Prosperity and Peace.” UNESCO, https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000388948 United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). “Water and the global climate crisis: 10 things you should know.” UNICEF, https://www.unicef.org/stories/water-and-climatechange-10-things-you-should-know United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). “Water Scarcity: Addressing the growing lack of available water to meet children’s needs.” UNICEF, https://www.unicef.org/wash/water-scarcity United Nations. “Water for Life Decade.”, https://www.un.org/waterforlifedecade/scarcity.shtml Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Water crises threaten world peace (report).” SDGs, 22 March 2024, https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/202 4/03/un-world-water-developmentreport/#:~:text=As%20of%202022%2C%20roughly%2 0half,their%20annual%20renewable%20freshwater%2 0supply. United Nations: Department of Economic and Social Affairs. “Tansforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”, https://sdgs.un.org/2030agenda UN Water. “Water Scarcity.”. UN Water, https://www.unwater.org/sites/default/files/app/uplo ads/2018/10/WaterFacts_water-scarcity_sep2018.pdf World Health Organization (WHO). “Women and girls bear brunt of water and sanitation crisis – new UNICEF-WHO report.” WHO, 6 July 2023, https://www.who.int/news/item/06-07-2023-womenand-girls-bear-brunt-of-water-and-sanitation-crisis--- new-unicef-who-report United Nations. “The United Nations World Water Development Report 2024." United Nations, https://www.unwater.org/publication_categories/worl d-water-development-report/. Water Aid. “Stars support WaterAid campaign to highlight the 200 million hours women and girls lose walking for water daily.” Water Aid, 22 Feb. 2024, https://www.wateraid.org/uk/media/stars-supportwateraid-campaign-to-highlight-the-200-millionhours-women-and-girlslose#:~:text=Globally%2C%20a%20staggering%20200 %20million,drying%20up%20springs%20and%20well s. Simmons, Ann, m. “The world’s poorest pay largest percentage of income for water, study says.” Los Angeles Times, 22 March 2016, https://www.latimes.com/world/globaldevelopment/la-fg-global-world-waterstory.html#:~:text=Across%20India%20and%20much %20of,their%20incomes%20to%20obtain%20it. Water.org. “Solutions.” Water.org, https://water.org/solutions/ Water.org. “Safe water protects and saves lives.” Water.org, https://water.org/ United Nations. “Why women are key to climate action.” United Nations, https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/science/climat eissues/women#:~:text=Women%20are%20the%20bac kbone%20of,women%20take%20on%20additional%20 burdens. UNDP India. “Women water Champions: A Compendium of 41 women stewards from the grassroots.” UNDP, https://nwm.gov.in/sites/default/files/Women%20Wa ter%20Compendium_July%2021.pdf
ADVOCATING TOGETHER FOR GENDER & ENVIRONMENT Prof. Prakhar Pandey, is an environmental law and policy professional with over 5 years of experience in the sector. He has worked in diverse settings such as litigation, consulting and academia. He is an ardent advocate of environmental and social justice and aspires to bridge the gap between theory and practice of laws and policies. Currently, he is building the Environmental Law Clinic as its Assistant Director at the Jindal Global Law School and researches on topics such as just energy transitions, circular economy, waste management, environmental and socio-legal aspects of business activities among others. In conversation with Prof. Prakhar Pandey By Jui Chawan Excerpts from the Interview Photo by Angela Benito on Unplash Page 14 Avarohana
Usually when we talk about the environment or rather about sustainability, the word “gender” isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But here we are, diving into the connection between the two. How exactly do gender and the environment become linked? We don't often interlink these two words. I think largely to be honest, the background development of it is really responsible because the two have been very detached from each other. Environment is often spoken of in teams of scientific narratives, technocratic narratives, its a jargon heavy discipline and has often been studied in silos of scientific research, etc. So environment has also been a subset of a larger scientific narrative. I think the sociological aspects of it have started to come to light since we have started understanding what environmental justice or climate justice is all about.But of course, there are many interlinkages that could be direct, and manifesting in different ways as per geographical context, demography, the kind of ecosystem we are in. So all these things are at play on how the interlinkages manifest. A couple of direct interlinks that I can think about, are very much sector agnostic, are say "vulnerability" as a risk or a positionality exists when we are looking at gender diverse groups or gender minorities. Women, is particularly in developing countries, are more vulnerable to the impact we see today due to climate change and that is largely due to their positionality within the society in terms of how the socio-economic practices play out. Further, women and gender minorities have limited access to resources, they have lower income, they need to fit in traditional/cultural roles, all of this in a way restricts mobility and decision making. Another direct linkage is livelihoods. Some sectors are more sensitive to environmental harm or impacts of climate change, like agriculture, fisheries, horticulture. These lead to risks to economic security of women and other gender diverse groups. “A DIRECT INTERLINKAGE IS ‘VULNERABILITY’ AS A RISK OR POSITIONALITY WHICH EXISTS WHEN WE ARE LOOKING AT GENDER MINORITIES” Illustration by Lars Leetaru in Harvard Business Review Page 15 Avarohana
Heath is again a very important point to consider because these environmental harms often exacerbate health risks like reproductive health. Sometimes just changes in rainfall could potentially impact people's resilience to health risks. Migration is also a direct linkage as people need to move at times due to lack of availability of resources or extreme contamination of resources in their area. An interesting thing here, women are considered to be better at resource management. Especially since this is still is a key still for climate resilience and adaptation or long term sustainability. Further there are many indirect linkages. The Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs) are a prime example of this. We see so many interlinkages in and among the SGDs themselves. So it could be education, policy making, technological innovation, it could just be building resilience at the community level, giving a voice to people that often remain unheard. To sum up, ‘Gender inequities’ that manifest due to environmental issues, climate change are not just environmental justice issues they are very much a social justice, economic justice issue. And we need to address these interlinkages through studies, dialogue and empowerment. “GENDER INEQUITIES THAT MANIFEST DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES, CLIMATE CHANGE ARE NOT JUST ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ISSUES THEY ARE VERY MUCH A SOCIAL JUSTICE, ECONOMIC JUSTICE ISSUE” Photo by Eyoel Kahssay on Unsplash Page 16 Avarohana
Photo by Guy Bell in DeSmog But do you see mainstream environmental movements or research on sustainable solutions actually considering these gender narratives or being cognisant of such vulnerabilities, or are they kind of missing the picture? I would not directly deny it, but it is limited. I still hasn't been fully integrated the way it should considering the state we are in and the crisis that is upon us. So I believe there need to be more focus in this regard. But we need to be mindful that their has been an historical separation of the gender equality and environmental sustainability movements. And there as a lot of siloed approaches that have continued to be prevalent even today. A reason being these are complex issues, and at times solutions only come when one dives into the complexities. One shouldn't discourage oneself from complicating the question, its not always about simplification, at times complexities are required to reach a solution. So I think the historical separation does play out a role as to why the integration of gender narratives and vulnerabilities is still at a nascent level. And again, the dominant discourse around climate change mitigation has been pre-dominantly technocratic or a very imaginative approach where 'solar' is the future and electricity becomes free. And it all sounds very technical and far removed from a lay person's life.This also plays a huge role. Additionally gender biases come from patriarchal norms that also exists with the environmental and policy decision processes. One needs to assess as to who is getting represented in the committees that make decisions about environmental policies, who supports certain policies or its implementation. For instance there are certain local movements that are underrepresented that may have taken place at the Gram Sabha level but they don’t receive the attention or recognition. Page 17 Avarohana
So such voices remain unheard and unrepresented. So there is a need for ground rooting approaches. There are the studies which are focusing more on sociotechnological approach or the intersectional justice approaches will be able to capture these realities. Though there is now is now a stronger call for such studies, there is a burden upon the financiers of such projects. Investors in such projects have a key role to play here. But though gradually, research on the inter linkages of gender and environment is taking place. We know that certain groups and experiences remain underrepresented due to clack of diverse voices in environmental research, policy making, and even advocacy. Do you believe have more diversity of voices and leadership may make environmental issues for inclusive and sensitive to different perspectives from varied groups like women and gender minorities? Definitely. Diversity is needed in all types of leadership. Diversity is the key. Just representation of voices of women, non-binary individuals, marginalised groups, children brings so many perspectives to the table. We have seen how the climate movement is being led by the youth now, we hear news of a group of students raising climate litigation in courts. So diverse voices definitely matter. Like I said intersectional approaches would be key. Going back to research funding, investors are also nowadays being aware of the need for intersectional research. One sees this manifest in requirements in the requests for research proposals or funding proposals. For example, Green Climate Fund, it has developed a a set of indicators which require a mainstreaming into the project design and through the lifetime of the project design. For instance, one of the projects they funded looked into the resilience of small holder farmers and how they create nature based solutions focusing on adaptability and considering women’s roles in decision making processes and customs that aided them to adapt better. There seems to be a movement towards facilitating bringing these into mandatory requirements. Illustration by UN Women Page 18 Avarohana “STUDIES WHICH ARE FOCUSING MORE ON SOCIO-TECHNOLOGICAL APPROACH OR THE INTERSECTIONAL JUSTICE APPROACHES WILL BE ABLE TO CAPTURE THESE REALITIES.”
Page 19 Avarohana Photo by Nandhu Kumar on Unsplash It is a big opportunity to bring diversity and intersectionality in these dialogues. Especially since we are at the junction of transition and focusing on systemically changing structures. Historical separation in gender and environment movements can be understood but it cannot be an excuse anymore. When we have a chance to realign our structures as per current social and planetary requirements, it is very big opportunity to make those transitions more just and inclusive. (These are some excerpts from the longer interview. For the entire interview check out the CNES YouTube Channel at https://m.youtube.com/watch? v=_BPvht7jDHA) “DIVERSITY IS NEEDED IN ALL TYPES OF LEADERSHIP. DIVERSITY IS THE KEY. JUST REPRESENTATION OF VOICES OF WOMEN, NONBINARY INDIVIDUALS, MARGINALISED GROUPS, CHILDREN BRINGS SO MANY PERSPECTIVES TO THE TABLE.”
Page 20 Avarohana PHOTO ESSAY In collaboration with the Aperture Society JGU Roots and Rhythms: Portraits of Sustainability and Community in Transition
Page 21 Avarohana In this compelling series, "Roots and Rhythms," we traverse the rich tapestry of rural life, where the intertwining of environment, sustainability, and inclusivity forms the cornerstone of existence. Each frame captures the subtle yet profound ways in which individuals engage with their surroundings, highlighting the pivotal role of community in nurturing sustainable practices. From the serene contemplation of a woman, partially obscured by the foliage that envelops her, to the dynamic group of young women striding confidently down a rural path, the images evoke a sense of groundedness and purpose. A young girl, balancing gracefully on a bicycle, symbolizes momentum—both physical and metaphorical—towards embracing change and fostering resilience in the face of environmental challenges. These portraits are not merely snapshots; they are an invitation to witness the harmony and challenges of lives deeply connected to their land and culture. Through these visuals, "Roots and Rhythms" offers a narrative of hope and continuity, urging a reflection on how each community member contributes to the sustainability of their world. Captured by Srijan Sonkar Written by Suhani Sharma
PHOTO REFLECTION Captured & Written By Tanvi Mehta What would it feel like to break free from the societal constraints that dictate moral behaviour? To be liberated from the confines of traditional gender roles imposed by society? To live according to your desires, immune to the judgment of others, and fully accepting of yourself as you are? It would feel as if you were soaring high, weightless, unbothered and unburdened. The image I have captured reflects this sentiment: if seen from my perspective, you will understand how the birds fly freely, unencumbered by fear or inhibition, able to appreciate the beauty of the world below. They embody the calmness of the sky and the gentle breeze, creating a peaceful environment conducive to self-acceptance and introspection, free from any sort of external influence. There's a profound connection between this image, gender roles, and gender identity. It urges us to break free from societal expectations, to ascend confidently with our lives and choices in our hands, and to embrace our gender identity without fear, allowing us to soar to new heights rather than remain confined and hidden. 17 Page 22 Avarohana
GENDER AROUND US PHOTO BY RABIE MADACI ON UNSPLASH A Photographic Investigation into how gender stereotypes manifest themselves in everyday objects around us and common motifs Page 23 Avarohana PART 1
Since time immemorial, flowers have been associated with the female gender. Terms such as ‘deflowering’ which are linked to female sexuality enhance this notion. Furthermore- floral imagery was created to be appreciated for its beauty, associating it with a female figure. Even in society, men usually shy away from dressing up in floral attire. However, very less of us are aware that certain can convey specific meanings for men – for instance, the Sunflower – which represents fatherhood. More or less, as society is evolving, the concept of masculinity is also evolving and so shall men’s connection with flowers. Captured and Witten by Prabhroop Kaur Page 24 Avarohana
The colour ‘Pink’ has always been associated with femininity and most female products use this colour for products considered as “typically” feminine. It wasn’t until recently that I realised that the jewellery box I received as a gift was also pink in colour. And a few days back, when I went to get a face mask kit in a store, the colour choice for me was between a dark pink and light pink. These products may be as per popular opinion primarily marketed towards females but why can’t we go beyond the Pink? Captured and Witten by Jui Chawan Page 25 Avarohana
THIS IS A CONTINUING PROJECT. DO GET IN TOUCH WITH US IF YOU WISH TO SUBMIT FOR THE NEXT EDITIONS. SEND YOUR SUBMISSIONS AT [email protected] Same product, Same purpose, Different connotations. To me, the way these bottles are shaped reflect a great comparison of how societal stereotypes are reflected in product design, creating and reinforcing a clear distinction between the binary. While women are to be delicate, elegant and perfectly please the senses with the bright and comforting scent of roses; men must be like a cutting, overwhelming and aggressive fragrance in a bold, angular, unyielding design. Captured and Witten by Adya Manchanda Page 26 Avarohana
Page 27 Avarohana "A better today leads to a better tomorrow" is, in my opinion, the core notion of sustainable development. By efficiently using resources to fulfil our current demands in such a way that future generations do not have to sacrifice their own.For the younger generation of today, sustainability mostly refers to finding novel and imaginative solutions to issues of satisfying our current wants without jeopardising our ability to meet future demands, therefore establishing environmental equilibrium. Young leaders of today, such as Greta Thunberg and Vanessa Nakate, as well as environmental activists like Licypriya Kangujam, have not only had a good environmental influence but have also served as an inspiration to the younger generation to actively defend the environment and the climate. As a result, these young people's perspective is one of continual work and initiative in pursuit of a better tomorrow. In addition to being aware of the many problems, they also take part in waste reduction, conservation, and the advancement of sustainable development. To combat these difficulties, they employ technology and creativity to curate long-term solutions such as establishing organisations and companies to focus on these concerns and generate a positive impact for sustainability. Young leaders also have the opportunity to participate in conferences, collaborate on projects, and connect with other worldwide networks through various platforms such as the United Nations. This allows them to get insight into the global challenges that people face and express their perspectives on them. We frequently see that environmental conservation and gender equality are combined and addressed in a complementary manner. In addition to promoting gender equality, ensuring equitable access to resources, particularly for women living in rural locations, also guarantees more sustainable management methods.To create a more holistic environment, women's participation and leadership in decision-making should be increased in order to develop stronger environmental policy. We frequently fail to recognise the serious health effects that environmental degradation might have, which again differ for men and women. Since they are compelled by their work to adopt certain customs and behaviors, women are perceived as being more susceptible to dangerous chemicals emitted during cooking and fertiliser use, among other activities. On the other hand, men who work on construction sites face a greater danger to their lives when they mine because they are constantly exposed to chemicals and risks that can cause lung ailments and other respiratory problems. We can observe how the thinking of young leaders has shifted dramatically in order to prioritise creating a better, more sustainable future. In a similar vein, addressing these concerns and connecting gender equality with the environment are increasingly necessary to fulfil the objective of sustainability. We can observe how the thinking of young leaders has shifted dramatically in order to prioritise creating a better, more sustainable future PERSONAL Written By REFLECTIONS Shreyoshi Roy Chowdhury Photo by Noah Buscher on Unsplash
Page 28 Avarohana Avarohana ' s Must Reads 03 The Sexual Politics of Meat: A FeministVegetarian Critical Theory by Carol J. Adams This work links the oppression of women and animals within a patriarchal society, arguing that the exploitation of animals for meat consumption is deeply intertwined with feminist issues. Published in 1990, Adams explores cultural narratives where women and animals are objectified and consumed as 'pieces of meat,' examining how these metaphors reinforce and normalize violence against marginalized bodies. The book combines feminist theory, vegetarianism, and animal rights, proposing that the liberation of women and animals from societal oppression should be interconnected movements. Adams's work is notable for its provocative analysis and has sparked discussions and debates about the relationship between dietary choices, gender politics, and ethics. 01 Staying with the Trouble: Making Kin in the Chthulucene by Donna J. Haraway This book challenges traditional views on humanity's future on Earth, advocating for a radical shift in the way we relate to the planet and its inhabitants. Haraway introduces the concept of the "Chthulucene," an alternative to the Anthropocene era, emphasizing entangled relationships between diverse species over human-centered narratives. She argues for making "kin" — forming meaningful, responsible connections that transcend traditional boundaries of nature, species, and gender. Through a mix of storytelling and theory, Haraway encourages embracing complexity and interdependence as means of survival and flourishing in a changing world. 02 Ecofeminism by Maria Mies and Vandana Shiva This book articulates a connection between the exploitation of the natural world and the subjugation of women, presenting a critical analysis that combines ecological concerns with feminist critique. Published in the early 1990s, the book explores how modern science, colonialism, and the capitalist framework contribute to the dual oppression of women and nature. Mies and Shiva argue that these interlinked dominations stem from patriarchal structures that value profit over life. They advocate for a radical shift towards a more sustainable and just world order that emphasizes local economies, biodiversity, and mutual respect among communities and their environments. This work has been influential in shaping both feminist and environmental movements, calling for solidarity between them to address these global issues comprehensively. Nandita Purvi Durgam
Page 29 Avarohana In the first two phases of the Lok Sabha polls, women made up only eight per cent of the total 1,618 candidates. Political activists argue that this statistic reveals a more profound problem of gender bias, suggesting that discussions about empowering women lack substance. Source: https://english.mathrubhumi.com/special-pages/lok-sabha-election-2024/lok-sabhaelection-2024-phase-2-kerala-had-the-maximum-women-candidates-1.9518207 NEWS BITS Savya Atrey In the current Lok Sabha elections, there has been a noticeable lack of female candidates, sparking conversations about gender bias in politics. With only eight percent of candidates being women in the initial two phases, questions are being raised about the sincerity of political discourse regarding women's empowerment. Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/gender-imbalance-in-lok-sabha-electionsjust-8-women-candidates-contested-first-two-phases-of-polls/articleshow/109666346.cms
Page 30 Avarohana In India, despite ongoing efforts to promote gender diversity, women continue to be significantly underrepresented in Chief Financial Officer (CFO) positions. This disparity can be attributed to various challenges, including biases in the workplace, difficulties in retaining female talent, and limitations in the pool of qualified female candidates. As a result, many companies struggle to retain and promote high-potential women, which ultimately hinders their progress toward occupying top finance roles. Source: https://m.economictimes.com/jobs/c-suite/gender-diversity-still-a-long-wayaway-among-cfos-as-women-still-remain-underrepresented/articleshow/109601540.cms The Delhi High Court emphasized the importance of incorporating topics like gender equality and cultural diversity into the curriculum of the Delhi Judicial Academy. The court highlighted that concealed biases can hinder the delivery of fair and impartial judgments. Source: https://www.livelaw.in/high-court/delhi-high-court/delhi-high-court-calls-forinclusion-of-gender-equality-in-judicial-academy-curriculum-says-hidden-biases-areenemies-of-impartial-rulings-256291
Page 31 Avarohana Deloitte's survey serves as a compelling illustration of how gender equality can significantly enhance the workplace experiences of women professionals in India. The findings underscore the crucial importance of implementing inclusive practices, offering flexible work options, and establishing robust safety measures to effectively support and empower women in their professional endeavors. Source: https://m.economictimes.com/news/company/corporate-trends/women-ingender-equality-leading-firms-have-three-times-higher-loyaltysurvey/articleshow/109567648.cms The global workforce is undergoing a significant transformation with women emerging as key contributors, leaders, and innovators. Over the past decade, they have reshaped organizational cultures, promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and sustainable growth. Their growing presence is undeniable, with recent data from the ILO showing a steady increase in women's participation, and projections suggesting this trend will continue. Source: https://m.economictimes.com/industry/csr/initiatives/empowering-tomorrowthe-rise-of-women-in-global-workforce-dynamics/articleshow/108961696.cms
Page 32 Avarohana Avarohana ' s Docu Recommendations Suhani Sharma Featured The True Cost (2015) - Directed by Andrew Morgan 1. This film delves into the fashion industry, one of the most pollutive industries in the world, revealing the impacts on both the planet and the workers, predominantly female, in developing countries. It discusses consumerism, waste, and promotes a more sustainable and ethical approach to fashion. For more: https://www.sustainablebaddie.com/blog/ the-true-cost-was-my-intro-to-sustainablefashion-but-does-it-still-hold-up
2. Tomorrow (Demain) (2015) - Cyril Dion and Mélanie Laurent This award-winning documentary travels the world in search of solutions to climate change and ecological collapse. It covers various aspects including renewable energy, organic agriculture, economy, and education, highlighting how initiatives led by diverse groups, including women and marginalised communities, can reshape futures. 3. "Miss Representation" (2011) - Directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom Although primarily focused on gender representation in media, this documentary touches upon how media influences the environmental and sustainability narratives and how inclusivity can lead to more robust solutions in these fields. 4. Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things (2015) - The Minimalists This documentary looks at the lives of various people who advocate for minimalism as a way to counteract the overwhelming influence of consumerism on our lives and the environment. It touches on how simplifying life can lead to more meaningful experiences and less environmental impact. Page 33 Avarohana
Sustainable Environment Beach Sculpture Protest by The U.N. The number of plastics that get discarded into the ocean each and every year is truly shocking and the U.N decided that it would create an artwork to highlight the issues around plastic pollution. Shaped like a fish, this piece shows how art and sustainability are intertwined as it has been made from hundreds of discarded plastic bottles placed on a beach, right next to the ocean and helped to bring awareness to this disastrous issue. The massive sculpture highlights the issues surrounding plastic pollution and those who are most affected by this problem; marine life. The beautiful sculpture both creates awareness around issues regarding plastic pollution and has also found a way to use this pollution in a way that makes a statement! https://greenpetition.com/blogs/blog/art-and-sustainabilitywith-examples
Page 35 Avarohana Crossword Send your entries at [email protected] Deadline: 15 May 2024 Get featured on our next issue!
FOR COLLABORATIONS, INQUIRIES & FEEDBACK [email protected] Avarohana 2024