As the Executive Director of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, it was an honor to be invited as the keynote speaker to deliver lectures during the ongoing Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP) on “Nature Conservator cum Ecotourism Guide” at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad. I delivered an intensive four-day lecture series from 16/01/2026 to 20/01/2026, focusing on nature conservation, community-based ecotourism, and sustainable livelihood development in Jharkhand and across India. Throughout the sessions, Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato shared practical field experiences, policy insights, and inspiring case studies that effectively linked environmental protection with skill development and grassroots empowerment. The lectures encouraged trainees to view ecotourism not merely as a career option, but as a meaningful commitment to conserving natural and cultural heritage. Overall, the lecture series added significant value to the GSDP, reinforcing its mission to nurture skilled, responsible, and future-ready green professionals.

The Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, hosted a 4-day (28/11/2025 to 1/12/2025) Capacity Building Program on Rainwater Harvesting and Wastewater Treatment, aimed at empowering rural communities with sustainable water management solutions. The program was supported by Jharkhand Foundation Kendra under the leadership of its Executive Director, Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato, and facilitated by the Head of the Department, Environmental Science & Engineering, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad. While addressing the participants, the HOD appreciated Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato’s consistent efforts toward community development and environmental sustainability, stating that his support reflects a strong commitment to translating scientific knowledge into real-world solutions for rural areas. The HOD further emphasized that collaborations with organizations like Jharkhand Foundation Kendra are essential for bridging the gap between academic research and grassroots implementation.

The Rotary Club of Bokaro proudly conferred the prestigious Excellence in Social Services Award 2024-25 in the field of Social Work to Dr. Jaydev Kumar Mahato, Executive Director of Jharkhand Foundation Kendra, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to community service and social upliftment. Under his dynamic leadership, the organization has initiated several impactful programs focusing on education, health awareness, women’s empowerment, and environmental conservation across rural and marginalized communities of Bokaro, Jharkhand. His unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the underprivileged has brought measurable positive change in the region. Speaking on the occasion, Rotary Club officials praised Dr. Mahato for setting high standards in the field of social work through innovative initiatives and sustainable development practices. His work resonates with Rotary’s vision of ‘Service Above Self’, making him a true role model for aspiring social leaders. In his acceptance speech, Dr. Mahato dedicated the award to his hardworking team and the communities they serve, reaffirming his resolve to continue working towards an inclusive and empowered society. The event was attended by distinguished Rotarians, dignitaries, and members of various civil society organizations who lauded this well-deserved recognition.

The Career Guidance, Counseling, and Motivation Talk organized by Jharkhand Siksha Pariyojana, Bokaro, PM Sri SS +2 School, Kasmar, is a great step toward empowering students with the right knowledge and direction for their future. Jharkhand Foundation Kendra (JFK) is already running such a program in various government schools of Jharkhand named “Siksha Sabka Adhikar”. This time, it was privileged for JFK to collaborate with the Department of Education, Bokaro (Government of Jharkhand) to join hands for this great initiative. This Program aimed to provide (i) Information on different career paths (Engineering, Medical, Civil Services, Banking, etc.), (ii) Vocational and skill-based career options (iii) Higher education opportunities and scholarships, (iv) One-on-one and group counseling for students (v) Identifying strengths, weaknesses, and interests (vi) Guidance on overcoming academic and personal challenges (vii) Importance of perseverance, discipline, and goal setting and (viii)  How to stay focused despite challenges.