This edition focuses on the theme of “Labour Informality in the Coal-Producing Geographies in India: Issues and Perspectives,” emphasizing a people-centric transition. We have curated a range of perspectives from academics and researchers to emphasise the pressing requirement for a human-focused strategy in the wake of transition to sustainable energy.
As we look to a future powered by greener sources of energy, aligning with India’s net-zero goals, the need to reduce our reliance on coal is of utmost signfi cance. This change would, however, have a direct impact on informal labourers who rely on coal for their living and frequently lack alternative employment prospects or means of social security. It is imperative to prioritise the inclusion of coal workers, especially those who are informally engaged, to ensure their degree of vulnerability is minimised. The purpose of this issue is to create a sense of urgency and need for collaborative eff orts that directly tackle the diffi culties experienced by those reliant on the coal economy in varied ways.