Land remains one of the most critical and contested resources in India, deeply tied to identity, livelihood, and justice. This panel discussion examined land governance through the lens of youth engagement and inclusivity, bringing forward experiences from diverse regions and communities. Participants included individuals who have worked extensively on land rights issues affecting dalits, women, tribals, and other marginalised groups.
Sharada Ganesh shared reflections from the work of Charaka, a rural enterprise that provides a secondary source of income to women from farming communities. By situating Charaka’s story within the larger land governance conversation, the discussion highlighted how access to land and natural resources directly influences livelihood opportunities. The challenges faced by rural women ranging from land ownership to secure access were discussed as structural issues rather than isolated problems.
The panel also addressed generational injustice and the perspectives of youth in relation to ancestral land. Conversations highlighted how young people navigate inherited land struggles while responding to contemporary pressures such as urbanisation, climate change, and economic precarity. Regional differences across states and districts were discussed, illustrating how land governance is shaped by local histories, policies, and power structures.
Listening to stories of long-term struggles for land rights, the session was described as both humbling and instructive. It reinforced the need for sustained engagement, cross-generational dialogue, and inclusive policy frameworks. By participating in this panel, Desi Trust contributed to a broader conversation on land as a foundation for equitable livelihoods and ecological responsibility.