The Department of Environmental Science & Disaster Management at Binod Bihari Mahto Koyalanchal University (BBMKU), Dhanbad, successfully organized a meaningful and inspiring program to commemorate World Water Day 2026. The event brought together academicians, scientists, and students to reflect on the importance of sustainable water management and environmental responsibility. The highlight of the program was the presence of the Executive Director of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra (JFK), Bokaro, Dr Jaydev Kumar Mahato who graced the occasion as the Guest of Honor. A USA-returned water scientist and dedicated social activist, he delivered a compelling keynote address. His speech focused on critical water challenges, sustainable solutions, and his ongoing efforts to improve rural education in Jharkhand. His insights not only highlighted global perspectives but also emphasized grassroots-level action. The program was further honored by the presence of Prof. Ram Kumar Singh, Vice Chancellor of BBMKU, who attended as the Chief Guest. His encouragement and support underscored the university’s commitment to environmental education and research. Adding depth to the event, distinguished scientists from CSIR-CIMFR, Dhanbad, including Dr. Abhay Kumar Singh, shared their expertise through insightful lectures. Faculty members from the Department of Environmental Science & Disaster Management also contributed with their academic perspectives, making the program intellectually enriching. Approximately 60 students and several delegates actively participated in the event. The interactive sessions provided them with valuable exposure to real-world environmental issues, particularly water conservation and management. The lectures sparked curiosity, encouraged dialogue, and inspired students to think critically about their role in building a sustainable future. Overall, the World Water Day celebration at BBMKU was a successful initiative that blended scientific knowledge with social awareness. It served as a platform for knowledge exchange and motivation, reinforcing the importance of collective efforts in addressing water-related challenges.

The RYLA Rural Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) Program, conducted by the Rotary Club of Bokaro at Asha Ki Kiran School, Olgara, Pindrajora, with the support of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, was a meaningful initiative aimed at nurturing leadership, confidence, and aspirations among rural youth. The program brought together 50 rural children, providing them with motivation, guidance, and exposure to new opportunities for personal and academic growth. As a gesture of encouragement and care, each participant received a T-shirt, cap, notebook and was also provided with a free lunch, creating a supportive and welcoming learning environment.

The event featured lectures and interactive sessions by various reputed speakers, who inspired the students through talks on higher education, career pathways, self-discipline, and life motivation. These sessions helped the participants broaden their outlook, build self-belief, and understand the importance of education and leadership in shaping their future. The program concluded on a proud and celebratory note, with certificates awarded to all participants, recognizing their participation and commitment. Overall, the RYLA Program stood as a strong example of collaborative efforts toward empowering rural youth and investing in the leaders of tomorrow.

A four-day Joint Venture Capacity Building Program on Rainwater Harvesting (3 days) and WTP/STP Operation (4 days) was successfully conducted by IIT (ISM) Dhanbad in collaboration with the Jharkhand Foundation Kendra (JFK), Bokaro. The initiative, sponsored by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Government of India, was specially designed to strengthen the technical capacity of rural people in operating and maintaining Rainwater Harvesting systems, Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), and Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs). This capacity-building program aimed to empower villagers with hands-on knowledge and practical skills, ensuring sustainable water management at the grassroots level. The program commenced with an inspiring inauguration ceremony at Pandarkanali Panchayat in the Dhanbad District. Chamali Devi (Mukhiya), Laxmi Devi (Saroanch) and other community members of Pandarkanali Panchayat along with the Prof. Alok Sinha (HOD), Prof. SK Gupta (Dean), Prof. Panyan, Mr Biswajeet (IT Officer), Dr. Awantika, Mr. Durga Charan, Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato (Executive Director, JFK) marked the beginning of this training initiative aimed at transforming rural water practices. The inaugural session emphasized the importance of decentralized water management, community participation, and the crucial role of trained local people in maintaining water treatment systems.

            On the second and third days, all participants were brought to the IIT (ISM) Dhanbad campus, where an intensive technical training module was conducted. Participants received insightful lectures from leading experts Prof. Alok Sinha (HOD), Prof. SK Gupta (Dean), and Prof. Panyan. To reinforce classroom learning, participants were taken for hands-on exposure at the Water Treatment Plant and Sewage Treatment Plant within the IIT campus. These visits were led by Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato, Executive Director of JFK and a seasoned water expert. Under his guidance, participants observed the function of Rainwater harvesting structures, STP, and WTP.

            The final day concluded with a warm valediction ceremony, during which participants shared their experiences and lessons. Training certificates were distributed by the first lady of IIT (ISM), Mrs. Sakuntala Devi, to acknowledge the participants’ successful completion of the program. This capacity-building initiative reflects the collective commitment of IIT ISM Dhanbad, Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, and MoEF&CC to strengthening rural resilience through education, technology, and skill development. This joint program stands as a strong example of how institutional collaborations and community engagement can together drive meaningful environmental change.

The Rotary Club of Bokaro, under its Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) 2025 initiative, organized a one-day village exposure tour for students from various city schools. The program was designed to allow young learners to experience the essence of rural life, culture, and community values firsthand. Supported by the Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, a team of dedicated volunteers accompanied the students and guided them throughout the visit.

During the tour, students explored traditional farming practices, local craftsmanship, and indigenous food habits while interacting closely with villagers. They visited community spaces, learned about rural livelihoods, witnessed cultural traditions, and listened to inspiring stories shared by elders. The experience helped students understand the strengths, simplicity, and challenges of village life, broadening their perspective beyond urban boundaries. This collaborative effort by the Rotary Club of Bokaro and Jharkhand Foundation Kendra created an enriching learning environment, fostering empathy, leadership, and social awareness among the young participants.

Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (Mera Yuva Bharat), Bokaro — under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, in collaboration with the Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, Pindrajora, organized an awareness program on the occasion of International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction at Sarvodaya +2 High School, Pindrajora. The program aimed to sensitize youth about the importance of disaster risk reduction and equip them with practical strategies for disaster preparedness. Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato, a noted Water and Environmental Expert, served as the keynote speaker. In his address, he emphasized that early preparation and collective community action can significantly reduce disaster-related losses. He also highlighted the pressing issues of climate change, environmental protection, and the need for community vigilance. A quiz competition was organized as part of the event, with 60 enthusiastic participants. Prizes were awarded to the top three winners for their excellent performance. The program was graced by Mr. Maheshwar Mahato, Principal of Sarvodaya +2 High School, and Mr. Angad Kumar Mahato as the chief guests. The event concluded with an awareness rally, during which students and youth volunteers spread the message of preparedness with slogans such as “Preparation before disaster is wisdom.” The program saw active participation from students, teachers, local dignitaries, and youth volunteers, reflecting a strong community commitment toward building a culture of disaster resilience.

The Rotary Club of Bokaro, in association with RCC Ulgora, organized a vibrant Rural Painting Contest that turned into a true celebration of creativity, talent, and community spirit. More than 300 children from rural areas participated in the contest, filling the atmosphere with colors of imagination and hope. The young participants showcased their skills by painting scenes of village life, nature, environment, and dreams for a better future. Their artwork reflected innocence, creativity, and a deep connection with their surroundings. For many children, this was their first experience of participating in a formal competition, making it a memorable and confidence-boosting event. The program aimed not only to encourage artistic expression but also to provide rural children with a platform to showcase their hidden potential. Events like these play a vital role in nurturing creativity, building self-confidence, and inspiring children to think beyond limitations.

The contest was strongly supported by Jharkhand Foundation Kendra (JFK), an NGO committed to education, rural development, and community welfare. As a supportive partner, the JFK helped in mobilizing participants, encouraging children, and ensuring the event’s success. Prizes were awarded to the winners, but in reality, every child who picked up a brush was a winner, expressing unique ideas and bringing colors to life. The event stood as a reminder that rural India holds immense talent waiting to be recognized and nurtured.

The Gyandip Literacy Seminar, jointly organized by the Rotary Club of Jamshedpur and Chaibasa, brought together more than 100 delegates from across India to engage in meaningful discussions on the future of education. Representatives and speakers from Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand gathered to exchange ideas, experiences, and solutions to the pressing challenges in the education sector. The seminar served as a platform to highlight the importance of literacy as a foundation for socio-economic development. Eminent speakers and education enthusiasts emphasized the need for collective efforts in ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has access to quality education.

I, Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato, had the privilege to participate in this remarkable event as a Rotary Community Crops (RCC) Member and Executive Director of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra. During my talk on “Socio-Economic Barriers to Rural Education in Jharkhand and Possible Solutions,” I shared my experiences of working at the grassroots level in rural Jharkhand. The seminar was not just a meeting of minds but also a commitment towards action. With such collaborative efforts by organizations like Rotary and active participation from educators, NGOs, and policymakers, the vision of “Literacy for All” seems achievable.

The Gyandip Literacy Seminar reaffirmed the belief that education is the most powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty and unlock opportunities for future generations. It was truly an honor to be part of this inspiring initiative and to contribute to the collective vision of transforming rural education in India.

The Jharkhand Foundation Kendra (JFK) has been running an educational and motivational campaign titled “Siksha Sabka Adhikaar” across rural schools of Jharkhand with the mission to inspire, encourage, and empower children through education. The campaign focuses on spreading awareness about the importance of learning, motivating students to continue their studies, and nurturing a positive attitude towards building a brighter future.

As part of this initiative, the JFK team recently visited Rajkiyakrit Utkramit Uchch Vidyalaya, Lanka, where more than 100 students actively participated and benefited from the campaign. The interactive sessions included motivational talks, group activities, and discussions that emphasized education as the strongest tool for empowerment and social progress. The students responded with enthusiasm, asking questions, sharing their aspirations, and engaging actively in the discussions. Teachers and school authorities expressed their appreciation for JFK’s efforts, acknowledging that such initiatives play a crucial role in boosting the morale of rural students and reducing dropout rates. Through “Siksha Sabka Adhikaar,” Jharkhand Foundation Kendra continues to reaffirm its commitment to the belief that every child has the right to education, and with the right motivation and guidance, even the most remote corners of Jharkhand can nurture the leaders of tomorrow.

On 26/6/2025, Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, in association with Wipenex IT Pvt. Ltd., Bokaro, successfully organized a Collaborative Placement Drive and Motivational Talk at Ranchi University, Ranchi. The event aimed to create employment opportunities for aspiring MCA students and empower them with real-world industry insights and guidance. The placement drive attracted enthusiastic participation from final-year MCA students. Wipenex IT Pvt. Ltd., a rapidly growing tech company, conducted on-the-spot assessments and interviews, offering deserving candidates the chance to begin their professional journeys in the IT and software development sectors. Adding significant value to the event, a powerful motivational session was conducted by Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato, Executive Director of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra. The talk focused on personal growth, career readiness, and the importance of skill development in today’s competitive job market. Students were inspired by real-life stories of perseverance, innovation, and success, particularly highlighting the importance of contributing to one’s own state and society through talent and determination. This collaborative initiative marks a step forward in connecting academic institutions with industry. It reflects the shared vision of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra and Wipenex IT Pvt. Ltd. to uplift youth through education, employment, and empowerment.

The Kashmiri Youth Exchange Program is a great initiative by Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) Dhanbad, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (GoI). In this program, 120 Khasmiri Youth from six different 6 districts came to Dhanbad, Jharkhand. The session was interactive, with the Kashmiri youth sharing their educational experiences and aspirations. Many students spoke about the challenges they face in accessing quality education due to regional instability, economic barriers, and infrastructural gaps. They were eager to explore new opportunities and contribute to their communities. I (Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato) was invited to deliver a talk on “The role of Spiritual Well Being and Education in Self Development”.  This program was not just an event; it was a movement toward national integration, empowerment, and progress. Let’s continue to promote such initiatives, ensuring that every young person, no matter where they come from, gets the education and opportunities they deserve.