In a bid to bolster food security and improve resilience among smallholder farmers, Caritas India and JDSSS Mandla hosted a pivotal district-level orientation and dialogue as part of the Smallholder Adaptive Farming & Biodiversity Network (SAFBIN) III program.

Held on 9th October 2024, at the JDSSS Centre in Mandla, Madhya Pradesh, the event witnessed the gathering of 60 key stakeholders, including resource farmers, district agriculture and horticulture officers, civil society organizations, seed traders, poultry experts, and nursery developers. The meeting aimed to strategize on improving farming practices and ensuring better market access for smallholder farmers.

The discussions at the workshop covered a wide range of topics, including sustainable agricultural practices and the cultivation of Rabi crops such as pea, linseed, mustard, coriander, chickpea, lentil, and wheat. These discussions highlighted the importance of seed selection, seed treatment practices, and the implementation of Integrated Farming System (IFS) modules.

One of the workshop’s significant outcomes was the bridge built between traditional farming wisdom and modern governmental initiatives like the Millet promotion program and specialized horticultural schemes. This convergence showcased opportunities for enhancing livelihoods through non-chemical farming practices, inspiring change at the grassroots level.

Father Dominic Thomas, Director of JDSSS Mandla, emphasized the critical role of the SAFBIN program in addressing the negative impacts of climate change on agriculture. He highlighted the importance of adopting sustainable practices to mitigate improper resource management and environmental degradation.

The inaugural ceremony was marked by the lighting of the lamp by District Agriculture Extension Officer Mr. J. R. Gajendra, District Horticulture Officer Mr. Prakash Bhavedia, Assistant Program Lead Dr. Mukund Deshmukh, and representatives from various organizations and farming communities. Dr. Deshmukh explained the SAFBIN project’s objectives, noting how small farmers can reduce the adverse effects of climate change through sustainable farming methods.

Resource farmers like Mr. Antram Sarote and Ms. Manila Bhavedia shared their experiences, illustrating the tangible benefits of integrated farming and the use of local seeds. Their commitment to sustainable agriculture has sparked a community-wide movement toward resilience and prosperity. Mr. Sarote detailed his approach to mixed cropping with local seeds, while Ms. Bhavedia highlighted the positive impact of her multi-layer vegetable garden on her village.

District Agriculture Extension Officer Mr. Gajendra and District Horticulture Officer Mr. Bhavedia stressed the need for timely registration to avail the benefits of government schemes. They encouraged farmers to embrace innovative farming methods and the use of indigenous seeds.

Members of various civil society organizations, including the Foundation for Ecological Security, Gram Seva Trust, CARD, PRADAN, and others, expressed their commitment to supporting smallholder farmers. They emphasized building a development platform that leverages both local efforts and modern agricultural initiatives.

The event not only provided valuable insights into sustainable farming practices but also fostered a collaborative environment for sharing knowledge and ideas. By promoting less dependency on chemicals, reducing input costs, and liaising with government schemes, the SAFBIN III program continues to empower smallholder farmers to face the challenges of climate variability.

The district-level orientation and dialogue marked a significant step in the journey toward sustainable agriculture. The event underscored the importance of collective efforts in achieving agricultural sustainability, bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and modern initiatives, and uniting stakeholders in a shared vision for the future.