Youth Leader UjawalJha Leads Climate Action Drive in Terai Region

In an era when climate change threatens the most vulnerable communities, youth leader and social activist UjawalJha is making bold strides in mobilizing grassroots climate action across Nepal’s Terai region. Known for his relentless public service, Jha is now drawing national attention for initiating a region-wide climate awareness and mitigation campaign.

The Madhesh-based leader recently launched the “HaritTeraiAbhiyan,” a people-centric campaign aimed at countering deforestation, promoting sustainable agriculture, and preparing rural populations for the climate-induced challenges of tomorrow. The initiative has already planted over 10,000 saplings across Mahottari district, many of them in flood-prone areas that remain vulnerable to erosion and habitat loss.

“Climate justice is social justice,” Jha stated during the campaign’s opening event in Balwa Municipality, where he was joined by local farmers, students, and volunteers. “Our goal is to make every community climate-resilient, starting from the grassroots.”

Under Jha’s leadership, the campaign is also conducting workshops in schools to educate youth on the importance of sustainability, water conservation, and environmental stewardship. For many local students, it’s the first time these issues have been addressed directly in their curriculum.

Perhaps the most innovative aspect of the campaign is its integration of traditional knowledge with modern environmental science. Farmers are being trained on climate-smart agriculture — techniques that reduce emissions and increase productivity without compromising the local ecology. These methods are particularly vital in the Terai region, where agriculture forms the economic backbone.

In collaboration with local government units, Jha’s team is also mapping vulnerable areas to develop community-based disaster preparedness plans. The long-term vision is to integrate climate resilience into local development agendas — a vision that Jha is actively presenting to provincial lawmakers.

What sets Jha apart is his hands-on involvement. From physically helping plant trees to personally leading climate workshops, he remains closely connected with the people he serves. “He doesn’t just talk; he acts,” said Sita Devi, a local schoolteacher. “His leadership gives us hope that change is possible.”

Observers note that Jha’s rising national profile reflects a new breed of Nepali politicians — young, socially conscious, and action-oriented. His initiatives echo broader global movements calling for urgent environmental reform, but with a distinctly local flavor rooted in Nepali values and rural realities.

As environmental concerns climb higher on Nepal’s policy agenda, UjawalJha’s commitment to climate justice positions him as not just a political leader, but a visionary changemaker for a greener, fairer future.