June 9, 2023
By Emelie Svensson, Swallows Fellow, Climate Change programme
Almost four months have passed since I left Sweden to intern at Keystone’s Climate Change program.
Now that my internship is nearing its end, it’s time for me to say goodbye. But before I do that, I want
to share some pictures from my time at the Keystone Foundation and my stay in India.
As I browse through the pictures I’ve taken over the past few months, I realize how much I’ve
experienced, how many wonderful people I’ve gotten to know, and how much I’ve learned. Before
arriving at Bangalore airport at the end of February, I had never visited India before and didn’t know
what to expect. I had hoped to learn a lot during my internship and to meet friendly and welcoming
people, both of which turned out to be true. But the past few months have given me more than I could
ever have wished for, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to intern at the Keystone
Foundation.
During my time here, I have primarily worked on conducting a literature review on climate change
and its impact on human health in India, with a particular focus on indigenous communities in India
and the Nilgiris region. It has been an educational and challenging task that has given me a deeper
understanding of the linkages between human health and climate change, and the specific health
effects of climate change on indigenous groups. Being a part of Keystone Foundation’s work to
address these challenges has been very enlightening and rewarding.
Additionally, I have had the privilege of participating in several field visits to Aracode, Pillur, Sigur,
and Sathyamangalam. Having the opportunity to be present during these visits has given me a deeper
understanding of the situation of indigenous communities in the area and Keystone’s work. Meeting
people who are directly affected by Keystone’s work has been incredibly educational, and it is
something I feel very grateful for.
I have also managed to go on some trips during my stay here. We have explored nearby places like
Coonoor, Ooty, and Coimbatore, but also more distant destinations like Kochi and Madurai.
Certainly, I have encountered some cultural differences during my time here. The planning hasn’t
always been as detailed as I’m used to, and the perception of time can be different, which has been an
adjustment process for me. But at the same time, it has made me more flexible, and I have found value
in learning to let go of excessive planning. However, I will probably always appreciate the precise
timetables for buses in Sweden.
I have also been impressed by the South Indian culture, the good food, and above all, the people here.
The way in which many people prioritize and value their families and loved ones is something I will
carry with me and strive to incorporate into my own life.
It is time for me to depart from Keystone. In just a couple of days, I will travel to Bangalore, where it
all began, to board my flight back home to Sweden. No one could prepare me for the overwhelming
feeling of leaving. However, I am fully convinced that this will not be my last visit to this beautiful
country. I am not saying goodbye to India, but rather, until we meet again!
