As rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns threaten food security, a new wave of climate warriors is emerging from the heart of India. In a bold step to combat the climate crisis, Caritas India, in collaboration with the Karnataka Regional Organisation for Social Service (KROSS), has equipped grassroots leaders with the tools to revolutionize farming and protect the planet.

Over three days (March 5-7, 2025), 27 participants from five states, Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh, gathered in Bengaluru for an intensive workshop on Climate-Resilient Farming Systems. Guided by leading experts, including Dr. Haridas V.R., Team Lead, Climate Desk, and Mr. Prabal Sen, Thematic Lead, the participants explored solutions to counteract the environmental toll on agriculture.

The sessions were led by Dr. Haridas V.R., Team Lead – Climate Desk, and Mr. Prabal Sen, Technical Lead of Caritas India. Their expert facilitation guided participants through the complexities of climate-resilient agriculture while emphasizing practical strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on farming. Fr. Antony Raj SJ also joined the workshop to share his thoughts on the urgent need for climate-resilient farming systems and the role of local communities in addressing climate-related challenges. Over the course of three days, participants gained a deeper understanding of the underlying causes of climate change and its direct effects on agriculture. They explored essential topics such as the background and causes of climate change, the environmental shifts already taking place, and the necessary measures to protect the environment. Special attention was given to the promotion of community-managed low-carbon emission economic activities, agroecology, and sustainable practices that enhance resilience. The sessions also covered crucial areas like natural resource management and soil conservation, equipping participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical tools.

A key highlight of the workshop was the sharing of real-life examples by the resource persons. These examples not only clarified theoretical concepts but also provided practical insights on how to apply climate-resilient practices in local contexts. Inspired by these discussions, participants engaged in group work to develop concrete action plans to implement within their communities. Divided into four groups, participants outlined specific actions to reduce their environmental footprint and promote sustainable living. They committed to rejecting environmentally harmful behaviours such as using plastics, burning leaves, wasting water and food, and using unnecessary electricity. Additionally, they resolved to avoid disposable paper products, junk food, and cutting trees without replacement. Instead, the participants embraced positive actions that contribute to environmental sustainability. These included carrying cloth bags for shopping, using public transport or sharing rides to reduce carbon emissions, and promoting the use of solar energy. They also pledged to adopt organic food consumption and carry personal water bottles to minimize plastic waste.

In their collective effort to “Save Mother Earth,” participants developed creative and tangible initiatives to promote environmental conservation. They committed to planting at least 20 saplings annually and presenting saplings as gifts during special occasions to encourage afforestation. As part of their travel routines, they pledged to carry seed balls and disperse them along their journeys to promote reforestation. Other commitments included the cultivation of earthworms and honeybees to enrich biodiversity, using organic pesticides and natural fertilizers, and even playing music while gardening to foster a holistic and nurturing environment. Participants also adopted the FIT Formula – Formation, Information, and Transformation – as a guiding principle to ensure the continued spread of climate resilience knowledge. Emphasizing the importance of local food systems, they resolved to promote the concept of “growing food to eat” and to advocate for the cultivation of climate-resilient crops. One innovative initiative that emerged from the workshop was the promotion of BMP Parivar, a sustainable farming model centered on cultivating Banana, Moringa, and Papaya, which are known for their nutritional value and adaptability to climate variability.

On the final day of the workshop, Fr. Anil William Crasta, Assistant Executive Director of Caritas India, addressed the participants and expressed his appreciation for their active engagement. He commended their dedication and the comprehensive action plans they had developed, encouraging them to implement these initiatives effectively in their respective communities. Fr. Crasta emphasized that collective action and grassroots-level commitment are essential to combat the challenges posed by climate change. Furthermore, he sought the participants’ support in extending the reach of Caritas India’s disability campaign, urging them to amplify the message of inclusion and accessibility across their networks.

At the workshop’s conclusion, all participants were awarded certificates in recognition of their commitment and active participation. These certificates symbolized not only their completion of training but also their readiness to become ambassadors of climate resilience in their communities.

The Climate Resilient Farming Systems workshop is critical to Caritas India’s ongoing mission to empower communities and promote sustainable development. By equipping local leaders with the knowledge and tools to address environmental challenges, the organization continues to play a vital role in fostering community-driven climate action. As the effects of climate change continue to impact vulnerable communities, such initiatives highlight the power of collective action and the importance of building resilient agricultural systems to secure a sustainable future.