Bhupesh Baghel, the 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, which is abundant in the region. Baghel emphasized the global trend towards green energy and the importance of finding alternative energy sources while acknowledging coal's current role in meeting the state's energy needs. He highlighted the government's consideration for the future of the indigenous population and the environment in making the transition away from coal. 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. At the COP26 climate summit last year, India announced intentions to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and increase the proportion of renewables in its energy mix from approximately 38% to 50% by 2030. To address the needs of over 40% of Chhattisgarh residents living below the poverty line, Baghel's government implemented a circular economy plan in 2020. This plan aims to create more employment opportunities, raise incomes, and establish a sustainable rural economy by establishing industrial parks and assisting women's groups in producing and selling natural goods. Cow dung energy was recently included in this initiative. Villagers under Baghel's flagship scheme are compensated 2 rupees ($0.03) for each kilogram of dung they gather, which is then converted into items such as organic compost, fuel for fires, and herbal dyes used in local celebrations. Baghel mentioned during a break in proceedings at the legislative assembly in Raipur that the initiatives in the state involve various aspects such as reducing stray cattle, improving livelihoods, and promoting sustainability. The state has established 8,000 gouthans in villages where cow dung is processed into products, with plans to generate power in the future. Despite India's focus on coal mining for energy until 2024, Baghel has resisted opening 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 mentioned that power will be generated directly at people's doorsteps. While waiting for approval for solar power projects, the state plans to produce energy from cow dung around the clock. Women will be trained to operate and maintain the digesters that convert the animal waste into biogas, which will be used for cooking and electricity production. The electricity will be distributed through a micro-grid to local areas, supplying power to rural industries, households, and street lighting. Any excess power will be fed into the state electricity grid. Decentralizing the production and distribution of power will provide easier access for all, including indigenous people who typically struggle to access electricity, while also creating green jobs and improving lives, Baghel stated. He emphasized the goal of obtaining cash from cow dung, drawing inspiration from Hindu scriptures and his childhood in a village. Baghel's plan focuses on self-reliance and giving back to nature. G V Ramanjaneyulu, executive director of the Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, supported this approach, stating that it would increase energy access for all and address agricultural waste. Using dung as an energy source is practical and profitable, Ramanjaneyulu added. The Baghel administration is aligning with the Indian government's initial strategy to transition away from coal in regions where mines have closed. They are also working to assist workers in gaining new skills for potential careers in eco-tourism or fish-farming. Baghel stated that they are demonstrating the profitability of alternative jobs to people, providing incentives for them to adapt and predicting that changes will soon occur.