For generations, rice and millet have been staples in the diets of local communities, but the traditional methods of milling these grains have become increasingly inefficient. Farmers in Garo Hills in Meghalaya relied on labour-intensive manual milling techniques that could take several hours to process just a small quantity of paddy or millet. As diesel and electric mills gained popularity, many farmers found themselves at a disadvantage, struggling

Mahatma Gandhi once said, “We are the makers of our own state and… individuals who realize the fact need not, ought not, to wait for collective action.” This philosophy resonates deeply within the rural communities of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, where the Caritas India Gram Nirman Program has been making significant strides since 2021. Supported by Caritas Australia, this initiative leverages an asset-based community development approach, focusing

In a significant move towards institutional strengthening, Society for Social Development in the Northern Region (SSDNR) through RFAP supported by Caritas India and Catholic Relief Services (CRS), organized a two-day workshop on Strategic Planning, Resource Mobilization, and Safeguarding Policy for Regional Forums and Diocesan Social Service Societies (DSSSs) in the Northern Region. The workshop, held on September 2nd and 3rd, 2024 in Chetanalaya,

Nimba Bai Jamre and her family from Palwar village in Madhya Pradesh battled from recurring illnesses caused by unfiltered, unsafe drinking water. Their years of struggle was not just a personal plight; it was a widespread issue affecting countless families in the region. Nimba Bai's family spent between 1,000 to 2,000 rupees every month on medical treatments for ailments like coughs, colds, and waterborne diseases. The constant worry about their

Slums are often seen as a burden on urban infrastructure, but government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are now taking action to improve the lives of slum residents. Caritas India's Gram Nirman urban component is a shining example of how an NGO can make a real difference in the lives of urban slum dwellers, particularly those affected by HIV/AIDS. Gram Nirman's approach focuses on strengthening and rehabilitating slum dwellers

Imagine a world without teachers—who would guide our children, help them realize their dreams, and shape the leaders of tomorrow? In India, Teacher’s Day, celebrated annually on September 5th, is a heartfelt tribute to these vital figures in our society. Established in 1962, this tradition continues to thrive, emphasizing the profound impact teachers have on the lives of their students. Caritas India’s Surokhit Shaishav – Promoting Safe Childhood

In the quest for food security and ecological sustainability, the importance of food crop farming cannot be overstated. Unlike cash crops, which are primarily grown for sale in markets, food crops are cultivated for direct human consumption, playing a crucial role in ensuring that communities have access to nutritious food. Caritas India's U3 program (Uttoran, Ujjivana, and Ujjwala), supported by Misereor, is dedicated to empowering communities to

Nagaland, a state celebrated for its rich cultural diversity and stunning landscapes, is home to various indigenous communities, each with unique traditions and languages. Among these, the Peren district, often referred to as the "Green District," is inhabited by the Zeliangrong and Kuki Naga tribes, contributing to its vibrant cultural tapestry. In this region, maize is not just a crop; it is a lifeline. Serving as a staple food source for several