Common Ground

A collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing ecological, social and economic well being in rural India

India’s commons, spanning 205 million acres (about the area of Egypt) of forests, pastures, and water bodies, are essential for over 350 million rural people. These areas provide critical resources like food, firewood, and fodder, especially for historically marginalised groups such as Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and women. However, overuse and degradation have exacerbated climate vulnerability, social inequalities, and rural distress. While common pool resources and their value are one aspect, equally important are the mechanisms and practices followed by the local communities to govern and regulate the sustainable use of these resources. In tribal areas, this has been customary. This self-regulation is vital for inclusion and representation in grassroots democracies, particularly where traditional practices govern resource management. Leveraging the commons to address linked crises of livelihoods, climate, and equity, through a system-wide collaborative action framework, Common Ground tackles these challenges by bringing together civil society, decision makers, and businesses to promote sustainable management of the commons.