Revolutionizing Climate Discourse: Meet the Indian Collective Changing the Narrative on Climate Change

On a hot Sunday afternoon in Delhi, Rohit Rajput, a former CEO, attended an intriguing meeting he discovered on social media. As he entered, he saw water glasses and chits for name tags. "We were urged to use public transport. This wasn’t just another climate conference," he remarked about the atmosphere. Now a managing partner at Intersection Ventures, a firm focused solely on climate investments, he appreciated the meeting’s casual vibe. "Why would anyone choose to be here on a hot Sunday?" he pondered.

Rohit’s curiosity brought him to The Climate Party (TCP), founded by Sayesha Dogra. Sayesha, a chartered accountant and entrepreneur, started TCP after a life-changing trip to Antarctica in 2022. Part of a program called "Leadership on the Edge," she aimed to better understand climate change. Her journey led her to create a vibrant community focused on solutions rather than doomsday scenarios.

TCP’s beginnings trace back to a simple LinkedIn post in 2023, followed by a surprising turnout at a meeting in Gurgaon. Sayesha, who had left her job in Dubai, started a blog named Anticlimatic, sharing her reflections post-expedition. “What is my existence even worth?” she questioned, prompting her desire for meaningful action. Inspired by Sir Robert Swan, who famously stated, “The greatest threat to the planet is the belief that someone else will save it,” Sayesha wanted TCP to break away from fear-based narratives.

In less than two years, TCP has engaged over 2,400 professionals across the climate sector. It now hosts events in seven Indian cities and has built a network of nearly 900 individuals passionate about climate action. Volunteer-led meetings have facilitated job opportunities and partnerships with respected institutions, including the Indian Institute of Science and IIT Delhi. The collaboration culminated in the first Climate Investments & Technology Impact Summit in Delhi in 2023.

Sayesha envisioned creating a “scenius,” a term coined by musician Brian Eno, emphasizing collective creativity. This collaborative approach resonates with Margaret Mead’s famous belief that committed citizens can change the world. TCP focuses on holistic solutions, making climate action enjoyable. It houses a unique repository of climate games and experiential learning opportunities. For instance, TCP has amplified the voices of environmental activists, such as Rishi Aggarwal, who gained recognition on a popular TV show.

Participants describe TCP events as refreshing and engaging. After attending an April launch in Chennai, Deepa Sai reflected that the relaxed atmosphere fostered genuine connections and laughter, void of tedious lectures. TCP successfully balances personal networking with commitment to climate issues. Members often express a desire for deeper engagement and information sharing.

Hands-on experiences, like trips to mangroves in Mumbai, help participants grasp essential ecological roles. Others, such as Akash B, voiced appreciation for TCP’s role in creating community ties. “Everyone has a role to play. It’s empowering to see others taking steps toward climate action,” he shared.

The environment within TCP fosters connections between community actions, innovators, and decision-makers. Participants benefit from discussions about pressing issues, like the recent floods in Chennai, and can exchange innovative ideas, including tech solutions like beach-cleaning robots.

TCP has witnessed significant growth, proving itself an essential space for climate enthusiasts. For some, like Shruti, connections formed through TCP events have resulted in job opportunities and a deeper commitment to climate initiatives. Member collaborations have heightened awareness of climate finance and investment trends, further enriching the community’s understanding.

TCP has positioned itself as a critical player in advocating for government policies and innovations around climate issues. By presenting local climate action plans, TCP has established meaningful connections and collaborations across cities.

With its diverse network, TCP fosters collaboration and discourse among a wide range of climate stakeholders, from entrepreneurs to students. It embodies a vibrant approach to tackling climate change—building a community of individuals driven by creativity and commitment.

This growth highlights not just TCP’s relevance but the increasing urgency of climate action as a collective endeavor.

For further insights into climate action, consider visiting The Climate Party and Covering Climate Now for more information.

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