In a noteworthy representation of grassroots climate action, Sangitaben Rathod and Jasumatiben Jethabai Parmar, adorned in traditional Indian attire, have made a significant impact at the COP28 global climate talks in the UAE.
Hailing from Arvali and Jetapur in Gujarat, respectively, these women have presented potent traditional solutions to address climate change challenges.
Rathod and Parmar, who had never ventured beyond their home state before, introduced practical climate resilience solutions gaining international recognition. Their traditional wisdom involves harnessing neem leaves and cow urine to create organic fertilisers and insecticides.
This innovative practice, sustaining their crops for years, is now being adopted by women farmers across India, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilisers.
Sangitaben Rathod, motivated by significant losses in wheat crops in 2019 due to climate change, shared, "After that, we started looking at the problem, and we realised pest attacks had considerably increased due to the changing climate. It was then that we thought of turning to the traditional solutions our forefathers used – neem leaves and cow urine."
The solution was subsequently shared with the Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), empowering communities with this eco-friendly approach.
Expressing their expectations on the global stage, Rathod emphasised sharing their implemented solutions with a wider audience and raising awareness among negotiators about the impact of climate change on Indian women. Jasumatiben added, “Our seemingly simple traditions hold the key to a sustainable future.”
Amidst the formal suits of international bureaucrats, Sangitaben and Jasumatiben actively participated in gender-themed discussions during UN COP28, passionately advocating for reduced insecticide and pesticide usage through traditional farming practices.
The duo also shared their insights with former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, shedding light on the challenges faced by Indian women workers due to climate shocks.
Reema Nanavaty, Director of SEWA, underscored the urgent need for a Global Climate Resilience Fund for women, especially in India, emphasising a bottom-up approach.
With over 100,000 participants from 198 countries, the ongoing global climate talks in Dubai have provided a platform for impactful discussions and initiatives to address climate challenges and foster sustainable practices.