In an era where climate change poses a significant threat to global food security, Caritas India’s Smallholder Adaptive Farming and Biodiversity Network (SAFBIN) project is taking proactive steps to support smallholder farmers. By focusing on sustainable agriculture practices and soil and water conservation techniques, SAFBIN aims to build resilience against climate change and improve the livelihoods of these farmers.

Natural resources are rapidly depleting due to irresponsible consumption and unscrupulous practices, necessitating urgent action to measure, manage, and mitigate human impact on ecosystems. To address this, SAFBIN organized a three-day training program for partner staff from May 28 to 30, 2024, at MVSS, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh. The training aimed to enhance understanding of climate change impacts on smallholder farmers, promote sustainable agriculture practices, and introduce effective soil and water conservation measures.   The workshop, led by Dr. Mukund Deshmukh, Program Lead of SAFBIN, included around eight partner staff participants. Dr. Mukund emphasized the importance of sustainable agriculture in counteracting the adverse effects of the Green Revolution, which, despite increasing yields, has led to significant soil degradation and reduced crop diversity.

During the inaugural session, Mr. Soju Mathew, Finance Associate of Caritas India, and Mr. Dinesh Namdev, Senior Social Worker of MVSS, highlighted the critical role of the SAFBIN program in supporting smallholder farmers. They underscored the significance of indigenous crops and sustainable practices in improving farmers’ resilience to climate change.

Dr. Mukund set the tone for the workshop by outlining its objectives and discussing the negative impacts of the Green Revolution, such as the over-reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which have diminished soil fertility and crop yields. He stressed the need for sustainable agriculture practices (SAP) to restore soil health and ensure long-term food security.

The training elaborated essential resources for sustainable agriculture: water, soil, and biodegradable materials. Dr. Mukund advocated for the diversification of food crops to maintain soil nutrient balance, combat climate change, alleviate poverty, and strengthen food and nutrition security. He highlighted the importance of minor millets, which are crucial in addressing malnutrition and ensuring food security.
The training covered Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), focusing on cost-effective bio-manures such as Jivamrut, Vermi Wash, and Panchgavya. These bio-manures are affordable and easily accessible alternatives to chemical fertilizers, promoting soil health and reducing environmental impact.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices were also discussed in detail. Dr. Mukund shared techniques like using strong-smelling crops to repel pests, employing organic pesticides like Neem liquid, and setting up traps and sticky boards. These methods help maintain ecological balance and reduce dependency on harmful chemicals.

On the second day, the training moved to practical demonstrations of soil and water conservation techniques in Tinsua village. Participants learned about vegetative barriers, stone bunds, and water absorption trenches, which help prevent soil erosion and improve water retention. The implementation of these techniques supports sustainable farming and environmental conservation.

Participants also explored the use of farm ponds and contour trenches to enhance water percolation and storage, ensuring sufficient water supply for crops during dry seasons. These measures are vital for sustaining agriculture in regions facing erratic rainfall patterns due to climate change.

The final day of the workshop focused on developing practical action plans for the upcoming Kharif season. Participants created detailed plans for implementing IPM and INM techniques, establishing trial plots, and managing project budgets. This collaborative approach ensures that partner organizations are well-prepared to support smallholder farmers in adopting sustainable practices.

Fr. Thomas Philip, Director of MVSS, concluded the training by emphasizing the importance of the SAFBIN program in building a holistic ecosystem for smallholder farmers. He praised Caritas India for its contributions to strengthening farmers’ livelihoods and expressed gratitude for organizing the capacity-building training.

The three-day workshop served as a platform for sharing knowledge and best practices, equipping participants with the skills needed to implement sustainable agriculture and conservation measures. As these insights take root, they are expected to foster a resilient and self-reliant future for smallholder farmers in the region. The training’s impact will be felt through the efforts of resource trainers and inspired participants, creating a sustainable pathway to food security in the face of climate uncertainty.