Lecture on “Sustainable Development: Learnings and Experiences on Community Engagement”

Chandigarh, December 8, 2025: The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, today organised lecture on “Sustainable Development: Learnings and Experiences on Community Engagement” by Dr. Janak Palta McGilligan, Padma Shree awardee and PU Alumna. 

Speaking on community engagement, Dr. McGilligan emphasised the power of peer tutoring, vocational training, organic farming, and sustainable energy solutions in creating self-reliant communities. She also showcased innovative models such as solar community kitchens, solar dryers, and solar-powered micro-enterprises that have enabled livelihood generation while advancing environmental protection.

Dr. McGilligan’s talk drew upon four decades of her transformative grassroots work across tribal regions of Madhya Pradesh. She shared impactful experiences from her leadership of the Barli Development Institute for Rural Women, where over 6000 young rural and tribal women were empowered with socio-economic, environmental, and life skills. Her field initiatives included the eradication of guinea worms across 302 villages, development of sustainable green campuses, and widespread promotion of solar thermal cooking technologies—efforts that earned her global recognition, including the UNEP Global 500 Roll of Honour at the 1992 Earth Summit.

The keynote address highlighted the urgent need to integrate sustainable technologies, reduce plastic usage, encourage zero-waste practices, and strengthen grassroots participation in achieving long-term development goals. She urged academic institutions to play a proactive role in promoting research, innovation, and outreach on sustainability.

Earlier, Professor Harsh Gandhar, Director, CDOE, welcomed Dr. McGilligan and set the tone for the session by highlighting the importance of community-driven sustainable practices in contemporary times. The event was graced by the presence of distinguished university officials including Dean Alumni Relations Prof. Latika Sharma, Chief Vigilance Officer Prof. Simrit Kahlon, Dean Student Welfare(Women) Prof. Namita Gupta and NEP Coordinator Prof. Anil Monga. Chairpersons of different departments including the Political Science Dept. of which Dr Janak Palta McGilligan is an alumna and Centre for Human Rights and Duties with which the eminent speaker shares a long term association.  

The insightful lecture was followed by an interactive session where students and faculty members engaged with Dr. McGilligan on practical pathways for community-based sustainable development. The event reflected CDOE’s commitment to fostering experiential learning, social responsibility, and environmental consciousness among learners. Professor Sheena Pall, proposed a formal vote of thanks and Dr Kamla, Dr. Purva and Dr. Sucha Singh contributed towards the successful conduct of the Lecture.