British High Commission to help groom climate activists

Jaipur: The British High Commission will help groom young social leaders/activits fighting climate change from the state. Geoff Wain, deputy high commissioner to Gujarat and Rajasthan has expressed concern over the effects of climate change in the desert state. Talking to TOI, Wain said that British government is collaborating worldwide to reduce the impact the climate change.

"We are keen to partner with the Rajasthan government in its efforts harnessing energy from the solar and wind. We believe that our collaboration will accelerate the efforts countering the adverse effects of the climate change on the local biodiversity," said Wain.

He informed that the UK has several scholarship programs which that helps students/professionals working on issues—climate change, cybersecurity, leadership by deepening their understanding in the globalised environment. "Britain has been the supporter of India at various international platforms. India has one of the largest contingents of British embassy officials working tirelessly to strengthen the historical roots and future," said Wain.

The British high commission added Rajasthan Chapter in 2014. The commission is exploring collaboration in Rajasthan at three levels—defence and security, prosperity and bridging the skill gap. The deputy commissioner has headed the Afghan Operations, Pakistan and Afghanistan Department, Foreign and Commonwealth Office team from 2013-15.

He also informed that they are coming up with a mobile app or the smart meter which will help individuals reduce the carbon footprint. "Talks are on at the senior level to introduce this app in the country which will guide and update the individual about how to reduce the footprint," said Wain.

Talking about the outreach programmes, Wain said that they are reaching out to students in higher educational institutes. The commission in association with Chevening Scholarships held a debate competition titled "This House Believes a country should prioritise spend on healthcare over defence" in a private college to sensitize students about the budget spending trends across the globe.