Born: September 3, 1956

Shri. Kalyan Paul with a clear vision and objective set up Pan Himalayan Grassroots Development Foundation in 1992. Shri. Paul since inception has primarily focused on initiating and implementing fundamental ways and means for renewal of hydrology and restoration of ecology.

Shri. Paul is a driving force to promote holistic mountain development programs. His efforts have initiated appropriate technologies for conserving natural resources and setting basic amenities; which has attributed to the improved quality of life of the people.

Some of the areas of activities include:

Water: Infiltration Wells for drinking water; Roof Runoff Rainwater Harvesting; Surface Runoff Rainwater Harvesting
Energy: Biogas Units
Sanitation: Twin Pit Water seal Sauchalaya

The most appropriate methodology to implement all the above initiatives with maximum effect and use is by involving the youth and building their capacities to be barefoot engineers. Shri Paul strongly believes that this will help tap and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit in village communities. This methodology led to establishment of Kumaon Artisans Guild wherein these barefoot engineers help in creating awareness regarding the importance and benefits of appropriate technologies and assists communities in adopting such technologies through active engagement and cost-sharing.

Under his leadership and in partnership with various civil society organisations and the government, Grassroots over a span of 20 years has benefited communities with such outreach programs spread over 800 villages in 12 districts in the states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, India.