Jharkhand will make its first appearance at the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos next week. The state plans to showcase its unique living megalithic heritage during the event.
State Marks 25 Years with Global Debut
Jharkhand celebrates twenty-five years of statehood this year. Chief Minister Hemant Soren will lead an eleven-member delegation to Davos from January 19 to 25. This marks the state's debut at the prestigious global forum.
After the Davos meetings, the delegation will continue its international engagement with a visit to the United Kingdom. India's participation at WEF 2026 will feature ten states this year. This highlights the growing role of sub-national governments in global economic discussions.
Ancient Traditions Meet Modern Forum
The state government announced its plans to highlight Jharkhand's living megalithic heritage. This tradition continues to be actively practised by Adivasi communities across the state.
Unlike many ancient sites that exist only as archaeological remains, Jharkhand's stone traditions remain vibrant. Communities still erect memorial stones and maintain ancient rituals connected to these monoliths.
Geological Significance of Singhbhum Craton
Jharkhand's megalithic heritage finds its roots in the Singhbhum Craton. This geological formation ranks among the world's oldest. Scientists estimate it to be over 3.3 billion years old.
The state hosts several living megalithic landscapes. Chokahatu in Ranchi district represents one of the most significant sites. It is considered the largest such location in the Indian subcontinent.
Here, the Munda community continues to erect memorial stones as part of ancestral rituals. Similar monoliths in Hazaribagh are believed to track solar movement and equinoxes. These practices demonstrate remarkable astronomical knowledge preserved through generations.
Economic Agenda and Cultural Presentation
Jharkhand will present its heritage alongside a substantial economic agenda at Davos. The state aims to underscore the connection between development, ecological memory, and cultural continuity.
This approach aligns with ongoing India-UK cooperation on heritage conservation and research. The state's participation will focus on several key areas of sustainable development.
Key Focus Areas at WEF
Jharkhand's agenda at WEF 2026 includes multiple priority sectors:
- Electric mobility and transportation solutions
- Energy security and renewable energy development
- Climate action and environmental protection
- Forest management and bio-economy initiatives
- Women's empowerment and inclusive growth programs
These focus areas position Jharkhand within global discussions about sustainable development. The state aims to contribute to conversations about just transition and equitable growth.
Meeting Structure and Engagement
During the annual meeting, Jharkhand's delegation will participate in thematic sessions and bilateral meetings. Discussions will center on several critical topics:
- Critical minerals and resource management
- Renewable energy technologies and implementation
- Manufacturing sector development and innovation
- Food processing and agricultural advancement
- Healthcare systems and medical infrastructure
- Emerging financing mechanisms for development
State officials said Jharkhand will host discussions outlining its long-term development vision. The state seeks to strengthen partnerships with various stakeholders.
Building Global Partnerships
Jharkhand aims to build relationships with multilateral institutions, foreign governments, academic bodies, and responsible private-sector stakeholders. The state's approach combines cultural heritage with economic development.
By presenting both aspects together, Jharkhand hopes to demonstrate how traditional knowledge can inform modern sustainable practices. The living megalithic traditions offer insights into ancient ecological understanding.
These traditions have survived for millennia in the region. They represent a unique cultural resource that complements Jharkhand's economic development goals.
The Davos appearance represents a significant milestone for the state. It provides an international platform to showcase both Jharkhand's cultural richness and its economic potential. The delegation led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren will work to position Jharkhand as both culturally distinctive and economically progressive.
