1. This Policy shall be called the “Policy for Identifying and Engaging with Local Stakeholders” of Swami Rama Himalayan University.
2. This Policy shall be deemed to have come into force from the date of approval of the Board of Management of the University.

1. The purpose of this policy is to establish a clear framework for how the University identifies, communicates with, and engages local stakeholders including communities, government agencies, NGOs, and other relevant groups affected by or interested in its activities. The goal is to build trust, promote transparency, and ensure that local perspectives are integrated into decision-making processes, contributing to social, environmental, and economic sustainability.

1. All departments, projects, and operations of Swami Rama Himalayan University that interact with or impact local communities or stakeholders.
2. All staff, students, contractors, and partners involved in planning, construction, research, or outreach activities.
3. Both ongoing operations and new projects that may have environmental, social, or economic implications for the local area.

1. Identify and map key stakeholders in local communities and regions of influence.
2. Build and maintain constructive, respectful relationships with local stakeholders.
3. Ensure that community voices are considered in project planning and decision-making by the University Committee.
4. Promote shared responsibility and collaboration for environmental and social sustainability.
5. Support local development initiatives that align with University’s sustainability values.

1. Identifying all relevant local stakeholders in areas where we operate.
2. Establishing open, transparent, and continuous communication channels.
3. Considering stakeholder feedback in policy, program, and project decisions.
4. Strengthening partnerships that contribute to mutual benefit and community well-being.

This approach aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 11 and 17.

1. Stakeholder Identification and Mapping
   1. Identify all relevant local stakeholders, including:
      • Community members and leaders
      • Local government authorities
      • NGOs, civil society groups, and environmental organizations
      • Indigenous and marginalized populations
      • Academic institutions and local businesses
   2. Maintain a Stakeholder Register that is regularly updated with contact details, roles, and engagement history.
   3. Use stakeholder mapping tools to assess the influence, interests, and potential impacts of the organization’s operations.
2. Stakeholder Engagement Planning
   1. Develop a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) for each major project or initiative.
   2. Tailor engagement methods to suit different groups—public consultations, workshops, surveys, focus groups, or digital platforms.
   3. Communicate clearly about the purpose, potential impacts, and benefits of organizational activities.
   4. Ensure that information is accessible, transparent, and provided in local languages when necessary.
3. Continuous Communication and Collaboration
   1. Maintain regular dialogue with stakeholders through meetings, updates, and progress reports.
   2. Provide mechanisms for stakeholders to share concerns, suggestions, and feedback (e.g., grievance redress system or feedback portal).
   3. Foster partnerships with local institutions and community groups for co-management of environmental or social initiatives.
   4. Encourage participatory decision-making wherever feasible.
4. Inclusion and Equity
   1. Ensure that all engagement processes are inclusive, gender-sensitive, and culturally appropriate.
   2. Give special consideration to vulnerable or underrepresented groups, including indigenous peoples, women, youth, and low-income communities.
   3. Avoid tokenism by ensuring that stakeholder participation leads to meaningful input in decision-making.
5. Capacity Building and Support
   1. Support local stakeholders through training, education, and resource-sharing where relevant.
   2. Build internal capacity within the organization to conduct effective stakeholder engagement.
   3. Encourage staff and students to participate in community development programs, volunteering, and environmental initiatives.

1. Maintain documentation of all engagement activities, including minutes, feedback, and outcomes.
2. Evaluate the effectiveness of stakeholder engagement annually using indicators such as:
   1. Number and diversity of stakeholders engaged;
   2. Frequency and type of engagement activities;
   3. Stakeholder satisfaction and responsiveness;
   4. Implementation of stakeholder feedback in decision-making.
3. Report engagement outcomes and community impact in the Annual Sustainability Report.

All departments, employees, contractors, and project teams must comply with this policy. Failure to engage appropriately with local stakeholders may result in project suspension, corrective actions, or contract termination, depending on the severity of non-compliance.