An 18-year-old girl from Jharkhand, Shubhanshi Chakraborty, represented India at the 9th edition of the 1M1B Activate Impact Summit held at the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), where she underscored the role of indigenous wisdom in shaping modern sustainability.
In her address on Friday , Chakraborty — an author, filmmaker, and environmental advocate — said “the road to a sustainable future begins with our roots.” Drawing on the Warang Kshiti script of Jharkhand’s Ho tribe, she explained how local traditions embody principles of harmony with nature that remain relevant to today’s global climate challenges.
The summit was attended by UNOG Director-General Tatiana Valovaya, Ambassador Muhammadou of The Gambia, and several diplomats and international delegates.
Chakraborty also presented her book, “Past is Forward: A Journey Back to Heal the Future,” which explores the intersection of tradition and modernity. The book was earlier launched in India by Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha Harivansh Narayan Singh and Major General G. D. Bakshi.
An award-winning filmmaker, Chakraborty is also known for her short film “Natok,” which has been featured in 17 international film festivals.
