Mahabahu Climate Forum Experience: Seven Days of Climate Learning

Astha Bharadwaj

Can seven days change the way you look at climate change, conservation, and your role in protecting the environment?

For me, the answer is yes.

Over the past week, I had the privilege of participating in the “Climate Justice 101″ Internship jointly organized by Bhattadev University, Pathsala and Mahabahu Climate Forum. From climate change, carbon emissions, sustainable energy, disaster management and global climate agreements to biodiversity conservation, indigenous ecological knowledge and community led sustainability, every session offered a new perspective on the challenges and solutions shaping our future.

Some of the most memorable highlights included learning about exploring significance of the Brahmaputra River, understanding disaster preparedness and drinking water managment, handling e waste, TEK practices and gaining 6(5+1) mantras to handle wet waste

Climate Justice 101 Internship Programme by Mahabahu Climate Forum Begins at Bhattadev University

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The two days field visit to Manas National Park was particularly enriching, allowing us to observe wildlife, document species, observe the communities & appreciate the importance of conserving one of India’s most remarkable ecosystems.Visiting Manas Heritage Museum at Mathanguri, nestled along the Indo-Bhutan border beside Beki River, for deeper appreciation of the remarkable conservation story, biodiversity, and heritage that make Manas one of India’s most treasured landscapes.

Bhattadev University and the Mahabahu Climate Forum in Manas National Park

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The internship also introduced us to innovative approaches in waste management, sharing profits with the NATURE for sustainable startups, habitat restoration, and the role of traditional knowledge in ecological conservation.
A session on “SMILY Academy” highlighted how sustainable business models can drive both environmental conservation and community development.

Final day became even more memorable with the opportunity to learn from Padma Shri Jadav Payeng, whose story reflected the extraordinary impact of perseverance and commitment towards nature.

I’m sincerely grateful to Mr. Rituraj Phukan for his guidance and mentorship throughout this journey, and to Mr. Anjan Sarma for creating this wonderful opportunity. My heartfelt thanks also go to all the resource persons, organizers, and fellow participants who made this experience truly memorable.

Nature will continue to thrive with or without us, but our survival depends entirely on the health of the natural world. IF WE ARE TRULY SELFISH ABOUT OUR FUTURE and the generations to come, we must act now protecting ecosystems, reducing our environmental footprint, and becoming active participants in the fight against climate change.

While the learning sessions have come to an end, the internship itself has not. The next chapter now belongs to us. As we prepare to present our ideas, reflections, and solutions, it is our turn to transform what we have learned into meaningful conversations and action.

Astha Bharadwaj is a student of Bhattadev University, Pathsala, Assam (India)

Mahabahu Climate Forum

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