Bhupesh Baghel, the chief minister of Chhattisgarh, a state in eastern India, stated that the government's plan is to train local women in the production and sale of clean energy, as the state aims to move away from coal. Baghel acknowledged the global shift towards green energy and emphasized the importance of finding alternative energy sources while still recognizing coal's role in meeting the state's energy needs. He mentioned that the decision to transition away from coal was made with the future of the people, particularly the indigenous population, in mind, as well as the protection of forests and biodiversity. India is a major player in the coal industry, being the world's second-largest importer, consumer, and producer of coal, with significant reserves located in Chhattisgarh. India announced at the COP26 climate summit last year its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and increase the proportion of renewables in its energy mix to 50% by 2030. To address poverty in Chhattisgarh, the government implemented a circular economy plan in 2020 which aims to create jobs, raise incomes, and establish a sustainable rural economy through initiatives such as industrial parks and supporting women's groups in producing and selling natural products. Recently, cow dung was included as a source of energy in this program, with villagers receiving payment for collecting dung which is then processed into various products like organic compost, fuel, and herbal colors for local festivals. Baghel stated that the initiatives in Chhattisgarh address various issues such as reducing stray cattle, creating livelihood opportunities, and promoting environmental sustainability. The government has established 8,000 gouthans in villages where cow dung is processed into products and plans to use it for power generation. Despite India's reliance on coal until 2024, Baghel has refused to open new mines in the Hasdeo Arand region, emphasizing the need for a long-term plan. The state has partnered with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre to set up 500 biogas plants in gouthan spaces, each capable of powering over 2,500 homes daily. Depending on the amount of cow dung collected, the plants will either be permanent installations or small mobile units. Baghel stated, "We will essentially create power right at their doorstep." While awaiting approval for proposed solar power projects, the state plans to generate energy from cow dung round-the-clock. Women will be trained to operate and maintain the digesters that convert animal waste into biogas. This gas will be used for cooking and electricity production, which will be distributed through a micro-grid to the local area. The generated power will be supplied to rural industries and households, used for street lighting, and any excess will be added to the state electricity grid. Baghel stated that by decentralising power generation and distribution, it would allow easy access to everyone, including indigenous communities who typically struggle to access electricity. He also mentioned that this approach would create green jobs and improve lives. Baghel's ultimate goal is to generate cash from cow dung, drawing inspiration from Hindu scriptures and his childhood in a village. Self-reliance and giving back to nature are key components of his plan. G V Ramanjaneyulu, executive director of the Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, supported this approach, noting that it would expand energy access and address agricultural waste. He emphasized that decentralised energy is beneficial and using dung as a source is practical and profitable. In accordance with the initial plan of the Indian government to transition away from coal in regions where mines have closed, Baghel's administration aims to assist workers in developing new skills for eco-tourism or fish-farming enterprises. Baghel stated, "We are demonstrating the profitability of alternative employment opportunities to people. By providing incentives, they are embracing these changes, and progress will ensue."