Prestigious US Climate Leadership Program
Guwahati, June 22, 2024 – In a significant stride towards global environmental advocacy, two eminent journalists from Assam, Barasha Das and Sumir Karmakar, have been selected for the esteemed International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). The program, organized by the government’s Department of State, focuses on the project “Call to Climate Action: Building Public Awareness through Media Advocacy.” This professional exchange program, running from June 15 to July 6, includes visits to key US cities such as Washington DC, Detroit in Michigan, Boise in Idaho, and Boulder in Colorado.
The IVLP aims to foster mutual understanding and build international partnerships through exchanges that highlight US national, state, and local progress in climate change initiatives. The program will provide Das and Karmakar with firsthand experience of how environmental policy-making and media campaigns can integrate with practical solutions, thereby enhancing public engagement in environmental conservation.
In-Depth Learning and Exchange
On June 18, Das and Karmakar, along with their group, visited the United States Department of State to delve into the intricacies of its climate and environmental diplomacy. This visit offered them insights into how the US is balancing economic growth, energy security, and planetary health. They are set to participate in various activities, meetings, and site visits designed to broaden their understanding and skills in climate advocacy through media.
Sumir Karmakar, with 17 years of journalism experience in newspapers and digital media, currently serves as a Special Correspondent for the Deccan Herald. His work extensively covers the Northeastern states of India. Karmakar has previously completed two media fellowships in Assam, focusing on climate change and community resilience in regions such as Majuli, Bodoland, and Dhubri. His deep engagement with these communities has provided him with a unique perspective on the challenges and solutions related to climate change.
Barasha Das, an independent journalist, has been dedicated to writing about climate change and environmental issues in Northeast India. She was a fellow of the QoC-CANSA (Question of Cities-Climate Action Network South Asia) Fellowship on Cities and Climate Change in 2023. Her work has significantly contributed to raising awareness about environmental concerns in the region.
Diverse Team of Journalists
Joining Das and Karmakar on this journey are four other distinguished journalists: Isabella Nawodita Gurung from Gangtok, representing Sikkim Express; Jaideep Deogharia from Ranchi, representing The Times of India; Pooja Mehta Batavia from Kolkata, representing Times Now; and Sabita Kumari from Patna, representing Dainik Bhaskar. Together, they represent a diverse range of media outlets and regional perspectives, enriching the exchange program with varied insights and experiences.
Enhancing Media Advocacy for Climate Action
The International Visitor Leadership Program will equip these journalists with advanced strategies to develop media campaigns that effectively promote environmental conservation and public awareness. By observing and learning from United States approaches to climate change policy and media advocacy, they aim to bring back innovative ideas and practices to implement in their own regions.
The program also underscores the importance of cross-border collaboration in tackling global challenges like climate change. By fostering international dialogue and cooperation, initiatives like the International Visitor Leadership Program contribute to building a global community committed to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Conclusion
The participation of Barasha Das and Sumir Karmakar in the International Visitor Leadership Program highlights the crucial role of journalism in driving climate action. Their experiences and insights gained from this program will not only benefit their professional growth but also significantly impact their communities and readerships back home. As they continue to champion climate awareness through their work, they embody the power of media in shaping a sustainable future.
Also read: FLOOD NIGHTMARE IN ASSAM: DEATH TOLL RISES TO 29, THOUSANDS DISPLACED
