Earth Ideas Foundation

A seasoned development practitioner, Sohan Singh boasts eight years of field experience in integrated rural development, with a focus on climate-resilient agriculture and ecosystem conservation in India. His expertise spans livelihoods, NTFPs, and water conservation, with a deep commitment to indigenous knowledge in Santhal Pargana, Jharkhand. Sohan leverages his academic background (IGNOU, SMS Lucknow) and collaborations with NABARD, KVKs, and government departments. At Earth Ideas Foundation, he champions agroecological resilience and nature-based solutions through technical insights and community-driven approaches.

​Farooque Raza, co-founder of Earth Ideas Foundation, is a dedicated social development professional. Pioneering climate action and social equity across Jharkhand and Assam, he has led impactful grassroots livelihood interventions for indigenous Paharia and Karbi communities. With a Master's in History from Delhi University, Farooque's work champions community resilience, indigenous rights, and sustainable development in marginalized regions. His profound purpose and people-centred approach are pivotal in empowering vulnerable communities to lead on climate solutions rooted in local knowledge and sustainable practices, driving the Foundation's mission forward.

With a B.Tech background and a profound passion for nature and the environment, Shaharyaar infuses Earth Ideas Foundation with essential technical expertise. He plays a crucial role in representing EIF across online platforms and in media communications, ensuring our vital conservation messages reach key collaborators and the public. His commitment to plants and natural ecosystems guides our strategic outreach.

Shital Silas is an invaluable asset to Earth Ideas Foundation, deeply rooted in the Santhal Pargana region. Fluent in Santhali and other regional languages, he brings an intimate understanding of local customs, traditions, and the chronic issues facing PVGT communities. Shital's expertise is pivotal in fostering genuine connections and ensuring our interventions are culturally sensitive and effective, truly bringing local sense to our work.

Shahnawaz K. Siddiqui is a seasoned development professional with over nine years of social sector experience across education, climate change, sustainable livelihoods, and tribal rights. Holding a Master's in Rural Development and a PGD in Anti-Human Trafficking, he has held key programmatic and research roles with ActionAid, Going to School, University of Virginia, and the American India Foundation (AIF), contributing to strategic program delivery and government partnerships. As an Advisory Board Member, Shahnawaz offers Earth Ideas Foundation deep insights into policy implementation, community interventions, and cross-sectoral partnerships for climate resilience and education equity.

Gaurav Verma is a seasoned legal professional with over 9.5 years of expertise in Contract Lifecycle Management, AML, regulatory compliance, and risk management. Holding a law degree specializing in Corporate and IP Law from KIIT School of Law, he currently advises at Wells Fargo International Solutions. As a valuable advisor to Earth Ideas Foundation, Gaurav brings cross-functional insights into legal governance, partnership compliance, ethical risk assessments, and institutional due diligence for our climate and development programs.