In the remote village of Brajapur, situated in the Deban circle of Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh, a pressing challenge looms: the lack of sustainable agricultural practices and low agricultural production. This situation has left many smallholder farmers struggling to secure their livelihoods. However, a transformative initiative led by Caritas India through its FARM Northeast program is paving the way for change.

The FARM Northeast program, in collaboration with Seva Kendra Arunachal East (SKAE), is addressing the critical issues of food sustainability and limited access to modern agricultural practices. By focusing on empowering smallholder farmers, the program aims to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food security in the region.

Recognizing the urgent need for diversification in farming practices, the initiative has introduced high-value chilli cultivation to the farmers of Brajapur. With the right training and resources provided by SKAE, these farmers are learning modern agricultural techniques that can significantly improve their yields. The introduction of high-demand chilli varieties, such as Bhoot Jolokia (Ghost Chilli), Chakma Mirch, and Bird Eye Chilli, is a strategic move to tap into local and regional markets.

Through FARM program, farmers are gaining essential skills in pest management and advanced post-harvest handling, which are crucial for producing high-quality crops. The results have been promising, with farmers reporting increased yields and a remarkable boost in their monthly income—by approximately Rs. 20,000. This newfound economic stability is not just a financial uplift but also a source of hope for a more sustainable future.

The success of the FARM Northeast program can be attributed to its holistic approach, which not only focuses on agricultural development but also addresses socio-economic and health-related challenges faced by rural communities. Mr. Mintu Moshahari, Field Programme Associate at SKAE shares, “The transition to chilli cultivation is a significant step towards addressing the challenges of food sustainability in our region.” He added, “By equipping farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge, we are promoting resilience and sustainability in rural agriculture.”

Through the FARM Northeast program, Caritas India has been able to create a significant impact in the region. By empowering communities to revive traditional farming practices and adopt sustainable methods, the program has contributed to improved agricultural productivity and efficiency. Additionally, the collective approach has brought greater value addition to agricultural produce, increased investments in agriculture, and created a favourable and enabling economic environment for sustainability.

The success of Brajapur farmers highlights the importance of targeted support and innovative agricultural practices in transforming rural communities. By focusing on sustainable methods and improving access to modern practices, Caritas India and the FARM Northeast program are not only enhancing food production but also contributing to the long-term economic and environmental resilience of smallholder farmers in Arunachal Pradesh. This case story demonstrates that with the right support, even the most isolated communities can cultivate prosperity and sustainability.