Partnerships built on trust, shared vision, and a deep commitment to human dignity pave the way for real transformation. Caritas Australia and Caritas India have been walking this path together, reaching marginalized communities and empowering them towards a self-reliant future. This commitment was reaffirmed during Ms. Paige Wilson’s recent visit to Gram Nirman program areas in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, where she witnessed firsthand the impact of collective efforts in fostering sustainable change.

On March 29, 30, and 31, 2025, Ms. Paige Wilson, Program Coordinator at Caritas Australia, journeyed through the heart of Gram Nirman intervention areas in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. Accompanied by field team members, program associates, M&E staff, Gram Nirman Program Lead, and Fr. Anil Crasta, Assistant Executive Director of Caritas India, the visit offered rich insights into the lives transformed through the initiative.

Since 2021, Caritas Australia has remained a steadfast partner in the Gram Nirman program, enabling Caritas India to reach over 30,000 households and more than 100,000 socially disadvantaged individuals across Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Delhi’s urban slums. Their support stems from a shared commitment to inclusive development, sustainable livelihoods, social equity, and empowering communities to claim their rights and lead their own development. Ms. Wilson’s visit was a crucial opportunity to witness these stories of transformation and engage with the communities shaping them.

The journey began in Lalgara village, Latehar district of Jharkhand, where community members welcomed the delegation with traditional songs and dances. Through interactive sessions, children, persons with disabilities, and local leaders shared their experiences. The community showcased significant accomplishments—including a government-funded pond worth ₹16 lakhs, a solar-powered irrigation model benefiting 25 acres of wheat, and a 120-tree mango orchard developed under MGNREGA.

On the second day, Ms. Wilson visited Musangu village in Angara block. She interacted with individual and group entrepreneurs, toured a mango orchard and a diverse cropping field cultivating 15 crops. The villagers proudly presented records of successful access to government schemes, such as 27 houses under Abuwa Awas, each valued at ₹2.5 lakhs, facilitated by the Gram Nirman team. Fr. Anil offered words of encouragement, especially to women entrepreneurs, motivating them to explore premium markets.

Later that day, His Grace Archbishop Vincent Aind of Ranchi welcomed the delegates and unveiled the publication “Embracing the Journey – A Collection of Untold Stories from the Grassroots.” Commending Caritas India and the Gram Nirman team, he highlighted the urgency of addressing regional migration challenges through strategic approaches. The day concluded with a meaningful exchange with Fr. Bipin Pani, Director of the Regional Forum.

The final day took the team to Jurudand village in Chhattisgarh’s Jashpur district. Here, members of Farmers’ Clubs and SHGs showcased their achievements and agricultural innovations. Individual farmers displayed their integrated horticultural practices and shared aspirations for rural enterprise and market access. Ms. Wilson expressed heartfelt appreciation for their efforts and encouraged them to continue on their path of progress.

The three-day visit concluded in Raigarh on a hopeful and celebratory note. The spirit of solidarity, resilience, and partnership continues to fuel the Gram Nirman journey, and Caritas India extends its deepest gratitude to Caritas Australia for journeying alongside us to support the most vulnerable communities.