Bhupesh Baghel, chief minister of Chhattisgarh, stated that the government is planning to educate local women on how to generate and sell clean energy as the state aims to move away from coal. Baghel emphasized the global trend towards green energy and acknowledged coal's importance in meeting energy demands but expressed the need to explore alternative sources. He mentioned that the decision to gradually transition from coal was made with the well-being of the people, especially the indigenous population, in mind, with a focus on preserving forests and biodiversity. India is a major player in the coal industry, being the second-largest importer, consumer, and producer of coal, with significant reserves located in Chhattisgarh. During the COP26 climate summit last year, India announced its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and increasing the proportion of renewable energy in its energy mix to 50% by 2030. In alignment with this, the government of Baghel introduced a circular economy plan in 2020 to enhance the livelihoods of over 40% of Chhattisgarh residents living below the poverty line. This initiative aims to create more employment opportunities, raise incomes, and establish a sustainable rural economy by establishing industrial parks and supporting women's groups in producing and selling natural products. Recently, energy derived from cow dung was included in this plan. Through Baghel's prominent initiative, villagers receive 2 rupees ($0.03) for each kilogram of dung collected, which is then transformed into various products such as organic compost, fuel, and herbal colors for local festivals. Baghel discussed various initiatives during a break at the legislative assembly in Raipur, including setting up 8,000 gouthans in villages to process cow dung into products and eventually generate power. Despite India's push for coal mining, Baghel has resisted opening new mines in the Hasdeo Arand region to protect the intact forest. He acknowledges the need for a master-plan for the future and has signed an agreement with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre to install 500 biogas plants in the 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 that they will generate power right at the doorstep of the community. While the state is waiting for approval for solar power projects, energy from cow dung will be produced 24/7, with women being trained to operate and maintain the digesters that convert biogas from the animal waste. The biogas will be used for cooking and electricity production, which will be distributed through a micro-grid to the local area. The electricity will be provided to rural industries and households, used for street lighting, and any excess power will be sent to the state electricity grid. Decentralizing power generation and distribution will facilitate equal access to electricity for all, including indigenous communities, while also creating environmentally friendly jobs and improving quality of life, according to Baghel. He emphasized the importance of utilizing cow dung as a valuable resource, drawing inspiration from Hindu teachings and his own upbringing in a village. Ramanjaneyulu, from the Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, supported the idea, noting that decentralized energy production not only increases access to power but also addresses agricultural waste. He highlighted the practicality and profitability of using dung as an energy source. Baghel's administration is aligning with the Indian government's initial strategy of transitioning away from coal in regions affected by mine closures. They are also working to assist workers in gaining new skills to pursue opportunities in eco-tourism or fish-farming. Baghel stated that they are demonstrating the profitability of these alternative jobs through incentives, and workers are beginning to embrace the changes.