ANNOUNCEMENTS
India, one of the largest coal producing and consuming countries, faces the challenge of transitioning away from fossil fuels. This shift will have significant implications for the coal supply chain and the large number of people employed in the sector. Among the coal workforce, a considerable portion is informally engaged, with women playing a crucial role. While the concept of a just transition has gained traction globally in addressing climate and environmental justice, it has only recently gained ground in India after the country's commitment to net zero emissions by 2070. To ensure a just transition away from coal, it is essential to consider the gendered impacts of phasing down coal, recognizing that gender justice is integral to climate justice. This study aims to highlight the importance of prioritizing the well-being of women in the coal sector and coal communities and mainstreaming gender in India's just transition discourse and policy-making. As men lose their jobs due to the transition, financial hardships at home are likely to increase. Additionally, women are already underrepresented in the energy sector, and neglecting their inclusion in policies will perpetuate disadvantageous outcomes for them. Women predominantly engage in informal work in the coal sector, which is often manual, unsafe, and low-paying. They face risks associated with their work, such as illegal coal gathering that poses significant danger to their lives. Unfortunately, when accidents occur, there is no accountability, leaving these women vulnerable. It is crucial to identify these women, as they are not typically accounted for in the formal employment numbers reported by Coal India Limited, the country's primary coal producer. India's situation exemplifies the "resource curse" phenomenon, where coal-producing states tend to be economically disadvantaged. Moreover, most of the country's coal reserves are found in tribal areas, with a significant portion located under tribal-inhabited land. Consequently, many women affected by coal mining projects are economically disadvantaged and belong to tribal communities. This dual disadvantage—being women and belonging to backward communities—further marginalizes these women. In conclusion, prioritizing the welfare of women in the coal sector and coal communities is crucial for achieving a just transition in India. Gender-sensitive policies are needed to address the specific needs and challenges faced by women in the energy transition process.
Keywords: coal mining, just transition, gender, women in mining, extractive industries, environmental justice.
