In the development arena, the concept of resilience is weaving its way into the forefront, emerging as a cornerstone for sustainable progress. This narrative of resilience-building is particularly vital for marginalized communities – indigenous groups, smallholder farmers, displaced persons, women, and those with disabilities. Battling challenges posed by climate change, socio-politico-cultural factors, and the struggle for access to essential social protection programs, these communities find themselves at the forefront of a transformative journey. This journey calls for multi-sectoral collaboration, urging civil society organizations, community-based groups, and policymakers to harness local capacities and traditional wisdom. At the heart of this narrative is Caritas India Global Program, a dedicated agent of change, employing a nuanced and comprehensive approach at Micro, Meso, and Macro levels.

Caritas India’s commitment finds expression in the Global Programme on Poverty Reduction and Food Security, focusing on the holistic well-being of marginalized groups in high-risk areas. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2, 10, and 13, the program seeks to address hunger, inequality, and climate change impacts. At its core, the initiative strives to create a resilient ecosystem that empowers communities to withstand shocks and prosper in the face of adversity.

In the ray of this larger initiative, a micro-level campaign unfolded from February 14-16, 2024, within the Rayagada Program area. This Community Level Campaign on Improving Food Security aimed to bring awareness, engaging five program villages to enhance nutrition, health, hygiene, and sustainable food practices. The overarching goal was to fortify the pillars of food security – availability, accessibility, stability, and utilization – among the targeted families and the community.

The impact of the program resonated through 130 community leaders, a diverse group encompassing pregnant women, lactating mothers, ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, SHG leaders, Community Resource Persons of Mission Shakti, and PRI leaders. These leaders, now equipped with enriched knowledge, stand as torchbearers, committed to disseminating their insights within their communities. Their dedication extends beyond awareness; they aspire to be community resources, catalyzing local mechanisms to combat malnutrition and bolster food security. These empowered agents leverage their unique roles in the community to disseminate knowledge acquired under the Global Program, promoting nutrition, health, hygiene, and sustainable food practices. From lactating mothers championing balanced diets to PRI leaders influencing local policies, these community leaders form a cohesive force fostering awareness and engagement, promising a future of resilience and nourishment in the communities. The VHSNC, with the support of SWAD Rayagada, will play a pivotal role in providing timely support and monitoring progress.

In this entire process, Ms. Gladish and Mamita Sahoo, Community Facilitators of CHC Bissom Cuttack, played instrumental roles in promoting these community leaders. Their guidance and facilitation became the driving force behind a campaign that not only imparts knowledge but sows the seeds for sustainable change. Caritas India’s holistic resilience-building initiatives are not just programs; they represent a compassionate journey toward empowering communities, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of a secure, nourished, and resilient tomorrow.