Ratnagiri(S.N): Zilla Parishad Ratnagiri and Raintree Foundation today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work together for holistic and integrated development of Ratnagiri District through environment conservation, watershed development, rural livelihoods, and community wellbeing, with a focus on inclusivity and mental health. Women and marginalised groups will be priority stakeholders with a keen emphasis on strengthening local institutions.
Commenting on the alliance, Mr Keerthi Kiran Pujar, Chief Executive Officer, Zilla Parishad Ratnagiri, said “In Ratnagiri, we have been successfully implementing various developmental and sustainability initiatives across the district, ensuring progress and growth for our communities. This partnership with the Raintree Foundation brings a sharper focus and added expertise to our ongoing efforts, aiding us to further enhance our impact. Conserving natural resources while nurturing growth in communities enables us to comprehensively work towards the development of the district. Together, we are committed to making Ratnagiri a model district not just in Maharashtra but across India, by fostering resilient ecosystems and empowering communities.”
Speaking at the occasion, Ms Leena Dandekar, Founder, Raintree Foundation, said “At Raintree Foundation, our mission has always been to create resilient ecosystems and empowered communities through sustainable, inclusive development. Our work in Velhe, Pune has demonstrated the transformative impact of engaging local communities. We are proud to partner with Zilla Parishad Ratnagiri and are confident that, together, we can replicate the success we have seen in Velhe on a much larger scale in Ratnagiri, which is the focus of our long-term project in Shastri River Basin”
She further elaborated, “We believe this collaboration marks a significant step toward sustainable development in the district. Our aim is to conserve biodiversity, strengthen water resources, and enhance rural livelihoods while prioritizing inclusivity and community wellbeing. Together, we aim to turn Ratnagiri into a thriving ecosystem where communities and nature coexist in harmony, setting an inspiring benchmark.”