Almost one billion people around the world suffer from hunger at a time when the world can feed everyone. It is one of the biggest global threats to humanity today. Caritas confederation members in line with the targets of the campaign “One Human Family, Food for All” and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are working globally towards the aim to eradicate hunger by 2025.

The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report has already warned about the impact of climate change on the food system. The situation would be challenging for India which has over 1.4 billion mouths to feed. Around 85% of smallholder farmers who are contributing 41% to the Country’s food grain would be directly affected in this scenario.

SAFBIN, a noble initiative by Caritas India is working towards supporting the smallholder farmers and addressing the issue of climate change and food security in Madhya Pradesh. Recently a concrete step has been taken to promote sustainable agriculture practices and rural empowerment through its interim phase starting from February 2024.

Partnering with grassroots organizations, Manav Vikas Seva Sangh (MVSS) in Sagar and Jabalpur Diocesan Social Service Society (JDSSS) in Jabalpur, Caritas India conducted a three-day capacity-building program for staff. The workshop, held from 21st to 23rd February 2024 at MVSS in Sagar, MP, marked a crucial milestone in the SAFBIN program’s journey.

The workshop, led by Mr. Sunil Simon, Advisor for Caritas Austria, Dr. Saju M.K., Zonal Program Lead, and Dr. Mukund Deshmukh, Program Lead of the SAFBIN program, focused on enlightening the participants about the program’s concept and implementation strategy. Emphasizing integrated farming systems, biodiversity promotion, and natural farming techniques, the workshop aimed to equip staff with the tools needed for effective implementation.

Fr. Thomas Philip, Director of MVSS, highlighted the program’s importance, especially in establishing a holistic ecosystem for smallholder farmers. He commended Caritas India for its dedication to strengthening farmers’ livelihoods and thanked them for collaborating with MVSS and JDSS.

The workshop delved into critical aspects of climate change, mitigation measures, and the significance of adopting natural farming techniques for soil health and environmental sustainability. Dr. Saju MK underscored the importance of recognizing indigenous food systems and promoting culturally appropriate solutions to combat food and nutrition insecurity.

Dr. Mukund Deshmukh’s session dealt with log frame analysis, details implementation plans, and program management procedures further clarifying the program’s strategic interventions. The three-day workshop served as a crucial platform for building clarity and understanding among partner organizations, setting the stage for effective program implementation.

As SAFBIN takes root in Madhya Pradesh, the anticipation is that these initiatives will not only bolster the resilience of smallholder farmers but also pave the way for a more self-reliant and sustainable future for the region. Caritas India’s SAFBIN program has become an active agent in combating the threats posed by climate change and ensuring the food security of those who feed the nation.