“My journey from the hills of Himachal to being a leader in rural development is a story of passion and purpose. From my early days exploring nature to my groundbreaking work on policies and community projects, my life is a witness to dedication and impact. I’d say my mission is clear: To make a meaningful difference in the world, one that is driven by a clear sense of purpose.”
My story begins in 1964 when my early life was spent between the quiet rural spaces of Himachal and the border town of Jammu. My memories are filled with the joys of summer breaks in the Himalayas, swimming in icy rivers, trekking nearby mountains, and sitting in the breeze of pine forests with my cousins.
Life in Jammu was very different from those carefree summers. I’d say, my true joy was also outside in the fields near my home, where I loved to chase butterflies, climb trees, and get lost in books. Whether it was comics, encyclopedias, or biographies, these books opened up the world to me and sparked a lifelong love for learning.
A sudden change in my schooling, when my beloved Presentation Convent School was converted into a girls-only institution, marked the first of many changes I would face. My father, determined to provide the best education possible, arranged for me to move to Delhi, where I sat for the entrance exams of St. Xavier’s School. Among hundreds of applicants, I was one of only two selected. But, the transition from a small town to the posh, English-speaking environment of Delhi became a little intimidating for me. However, strongly armed with a small Oxford dictionary and a black-and-white Texla TV, I was determined to learn the language, surprising everyone with my new found fluency and accent borrowed from Hollywood movies and documentaries.
My passion for nature and science deepened during these foundational years, and were inspired by excellent biology teachers and stories of great scientists like Madam Curie. Yet, my time in Delhi also exposed me to the harsh realities of urban life, the concrete jungle, the monotonous existence, and the disparities between the rich and the poor. This awareness would later influence my life’s work in rural and natural resource development.
As a child, I was always curious and observant. I found peace in the natural world around him, often spending hours wandering the hills, absorbing the beauty of the world around me. This connection to nature would later become the cornerstone of my career.
The turning point in my life came during my college years, especially after witnessing the riots of 1984. The violence and suffering I saw sparked a burning desire within me to make a difference in the lives of the vulnerable. This desire led me to pursue a career that would allow me to work directly with those in need, particularly in rural areas. My passion for social justice and sustainable development drove me to engage in village-level action, working with tribals, Dalits, and women in the most marginalized communities of Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh.
I soon realized that while direct action at the grassroots level was important, true systemic change required involvement in governance and policy-making. I then began working on issues related to forests, common lands, agriculture, watershed development, and gender empowerment. My efforts led to amazing contributions in the national process for the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, which aimed to strengthen local governance in India.
I’d say that my role evolved over the years as I transitioned from village-level action to national-level policy and advocacy. I became involved in socio-political research, publishing papers and books that influenced policy changes, such as the repeal of the old Forest Policy in the 1990s. Furthermore, my work with the GIZ and IL&FS allowed me to contribute to the development of evidence-based policies and the implementation of large-scale programs that have positively impacted millions of lives.
In addition to my professional and personal endeavors, I am an avid reader and writer. Also, I am currently working on a fictional novel set in Africa, exploring themes of self-discovery, nation-building, and human connection. My love for Urdu poetry is another creative outlet, though I humbly admit that my last ‘nazam’ was penned a few years ago.
As I reflect on my journey, I express no regrets. Every step, whether clear or uncertain, has led me to where I am today. I hope to continue inspiring others, fostering cooperation over competition, and contributing to a sustainable future for all living beings within the boundaries.
Looking ahead, I also hope to inspire others to work together for a sustainable future. My legacy is one of cooperation over competition, a belief that by joining forces, we can create lasting change. My story is not just one of professional success, but of a life lived with passion, purpose, and a strong commitment to making the world a better place for future generations.
“Rajeev’s work in the Changar region of Himachal Pradesh earned him the “Social Worker of the Year Award” in 1994, and in 2023, he was honored with the national “Water Warrior Award” by the Minister of Jal Shakti. Yet, his greatest satisfaction comes not from accolades but from the knowledge that he has stayed true to his values, learning from his failures, and continually striving to be better. His legacy is not just in the policies he has helped shape or the programs he has implemented, but in the lives he has touched and the leaders he has mentored.”
(Director, Giz India)
