We are bringing together grassroots leaders, government officials, and civil society at the Chitnavis Centre, Nagpur on 20th August 2025, for the inaugural Conference of Panchayats (COP) focused on climate action in Eastern Vidarbha. Against the backdrop of Maharashtra’s mounting climate crises – droughts, water stress, crop losses, and shifting forest landscapes – this one-day gathering aims to forefront Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) as champions of local resilience.

The Nagpur COP is being organised by Asar in collaboration with the State Climate Action Cell (Environment & Climate Change Department, Government of Maharashtra), Waatavaran Foundation, YUVA Rural Association (YRA), and Policy Development Advisory Group (PDAG).  

The event will feature interactive sessions and collaborative group work, enabling Sarpanches and Panchayat representatives from over 50 villages in Nagpur, Gondia, Bhandara, Chandrapur, Wardha, and Gadchiroli to co-create pathways to initiate and sustain conversations and action on climate adaptation, sustainable agriculture, forestry, and livelihoods in their respective districts and blocks. 

With special addresses from state and district leaders, and facilitators from YRA, Waatavaran, PDAG, and Asar, this event promises meaningful exchange, practical solutions, and momentum for future district-level convenings.