Empowering Change for Informal Mining Workers in Dhanbad!

Trainees from the American India Foundation Centre at Amtal, Dhanbad had an enriching experience at a one-day workshop at IIT(ISM) Dhanbad, hosted by Prof. Anshumali and his team at Department of Environmental Science and Engineering.

The workshop focused on "Livelihood Conditions and Alternative Livelihood Options for Informal Mining Workers", creating much-needed awareness about the hazards of informal coal mining and motivating participants to explore sustainable and healthier alternatives.

Key Highlights:

1. Understanding the Hazards of Informal Coal Mining:
   The workshop shed light on the serious health, safety, and environmental risks that informal mining workers face daily. Experts discussed how shifting to alternative livelihoods can drastically improve well-being and environmental health.
2. Exploring Alternative Livelihood Options:
   The focus was on identifying alternative professions, particularly for the workers trained in Beauty and Wellness. Various strategies were discussed to create viable business models that trainees can adopt, ensuring long-term sustainability and financial independence.
3. Developing Business Strategies:
   Sessions were held to help trainees understand how to start and manage their businesses in the Beauty and Wellness industry. From customer engagement to managing finances, trainees gained insight into key skills required for building a successful business model.
4. Visit of the Biogeochemistry Lab and IIT(ISM) Dhanbad Campus:
   Trainees were given an opportunity to explore cutting-edge research happening at the Biogeochemistry Lab, fostering inspiration for sustainable practices. The campus tour provided them with a glimpse into the world of higher education and technology-driven innovation.

This workshop aims to play a vital role in helping these trainees transition into alternative, sustainable livelihoods, offering them the tools and knowledge to build safer futures away from hazardous mining work.