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.

In a heartening display of community spirit and service, a special cleanliness drive was successfully carried on 4/8/2025 from Court More to Pindrajoda, marking a significant step towards environmental responsibility and social commitment. The drive was the result of a joint initiative by the Jharkhand Foundation Kendra (JFK) and Bharat Prajapati Hero’s Organisation (BPHO), with a unified goal to clean up the waste and residue left behind after temporary camps were dismantled following the spiritual journey of devotees heading to Chidka Dham during the holy month of Sawan. This initiative was not merely about removing litter or managing waste. It was a declaration a pledge that cleanliness is not just a duty, but a form of service. The stretch from Court More to Pindrajora had witnessed the influx of thousands of Kanwariyas (devotees), who had temporarily settled in roadside camps during their pilgrimage. While the camps served their purpose of providing rest and shade, they inevitably led to an accumulation of waste.

Recognizing the urgency of restoring cleanliness and preventing health hazards, volunteers, local youth, and health workers rolled up their sleeves and joined hands in this noble mission. The cleanliness drive saw spirited participation from both organizations, with brooms in hand and service in heart. This event also aimed to foster awareness among locals and devotees about responsible waste management. Leaflets were distributed, conversations were initiated, and people were encouraged to adopt a “leave no trace” approach during future gatherings. The collaborative model between a civil society organization and a public health body also showcased how partnerships can lead to sustainable impact.

Phase: I

Plants for the Future plantation drive was conducted in collaboration with Jharkhand Foundation Kendra and Jharkhand Khatiyani Budhijivi Munch. Over 500 samples were distributed among the villager with the pledge that they would take care of it throughout their life. These initiatives not only help restore the balance of our ecosystems but also foster a sense of community and responsibility towards our environment.

Phase: II

Phase II of the “Plants for the Future” campaign is the joint venture of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra and the Department of Forest, Environment & Climate Change, Bokaro. This campaign aimed to plant more than 1000 trees in various schools and societies in the Bokaro district. Under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam program being run across the country for forest and environment conservation, 200 saplings were planted in Sarvodaya High School, with the help of District Forest Officer (DFO) Mr. Rajneesh Kumar (IAS), Bokaro. This initiative helps restore the balance of our ecosystems and fosters a sense of community and responsibility towards our environment.

Phase: III

In phase III of the “Plants for the Future” campaign JFK joined hands with Sant Nirankari Mission, Bokaro, and planted more than 300 saplings in the protected ground of Sarvoday High School, Pindrajora. This campaign is just the beginning of creating a sustainable green space. Ensuring the survival and growth of these trees requires ongoing care and maintenance.

Phase: IV

In phase IV of the “Plants for the Future” campaign, the Jharkhand Foundation Kendra (JFK) team reached Sonabadh High School, Sonabadh. In this campaign, JFK planted more than 100 saplings in the protected ground of this school. DFO, Bokaro, sponsored all pants samples. This campaign aims to increase public awareness of sustainable development.

Someone has rightly said “Where there is a will there is a way“, and the team of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, Pindrajora proved this to be true.
Pindrajora village has been facing a shortage of drinking water for years, but this time the extreme heat has made the villagers miserable. To quench their thirst every day, the villagers have to carry water from about three kilometers away. The villagers appealed to the government, political parties, and government officers several times regarding this matter, but did not get any help. Finally, the villagers, under the leadership of Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato (Executive Director, Jharkhand Foundation Kendra) appealed to the Chairman of Rotary Club Bokaro, Mr. Ashok Taneja for help. Finally, with the immediate help of Rotary Club Bokaro, within 15 days, a villager reformed the well lying unused for 40 years in the village and arranged for drinking water for themselves. Today, on the occasion of World Environment Day, 2024, this newly constructed well was inaugurated by planting a tree by Mr. Sandeep Shinde (IFS Bokaro), Rotary Club Bokaro, RCC Olgara, Jharkhand Foundation Center and the villagers of Pindrajora.