Vikalp Sangam is an evolving process that involves in its core functioning, over 90 movements and organisations in India. The VS process started in 2014, emerging out of a search for grounded alternatives to the current model of ‘development’ that is built on ecological destruction and rising inequalities. Watch the launch of Vikalp Sangam and also watch the Vikalp Sangam video. ‘Alternatives’ refers to ways of meeting human needs and aspirations, without trashing the earth and without leaving half of humanity behind. These refer to grassroot initiatives for basic needs, processes of direct political and economic democracy, struggles for justice and equality, policies, technologies and concepts/frameworks that challenge structures of oppression, inequality and unsustainability. They could be initiated and implemented by communities, government, civil society organisations and individuals amongst others.
The Search for Radical Alternatives: Key Aspects and Principles is an evolving document currently in its 7th Avatar also referred to as the Alternatives Framework note. Its printed booklet Vikalp Sangam: The Search for Alternatives also available. The Framework Note has been translated into Malayalam and Hindi. The Search For Radical Alternatives: Key Elements and Principles – Kalpavriksh has published this 20-page booklet (also available as hard copy) on the search for radical alternatives, with examples of transformations in India in political, economic, social, cultural and ecological spheres, and how these bring up basic ethical values and principles of a change towards a just and sustainable society.
Sangams are physical gatherings of organizations, individuals, networks and movements who have worked on ground at practical or conceptual levels on alternatives. During these gatherings, there is a lot of sharing of experiences, perspectives, dialogues, and collective visioning. These are organised either regionally (State, district or eco-regional level) or thematically (e.g. energy, food, health, democracy). As of late 2021, 22 Sangams have been held.
Vikalp Varta is a series of online dialogues created with the aim of being a co-learning space where different alternatives share their work, efforts, challenges and successes. Click on the following links to watch the vartas.
Vikalp Sutra has emerged from Vikalp Sangam, and aims at linking other networks and collectives with a focus on the sustainable livelihoods’ landscape of India.
A growing community of researchers and experimenters from across India exploring meaningful ways of weaning off from the modern economic paradigm while creating transformative, life-affirming ways of relating to our material world and resources.
Bringing together people working on or interested in alternatives, ideologically and in practice in the states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir.
Vikalp Sangam has also helped initiate a global platform with similar aims, of providing a bridge for radical alternative movements across the world, the Global Tapestry of Alternatives.
Alternative India
We provide immediate and long-term support to war refugees, offering essential resources like food, water, medical care, and shelter.
Keeping your community clean and green, one pickup at a time for a healthier tomorrow for a clean earth & clear future.
