The unique and rich ecosystem of Sundarbans is prone to climate hazards like intensified cyclones, Sea level rise, and salinity jeopardizing both the livelihoods and habitats of the local community.

Responding to this urgent call, a comprehensive initiative has emerged. Grounded in a deep understanding of local needs and global challenges, the Enhancing Climate Resilience of Sundarbans Coastal Communities (CREAM) project aims to strengthen resilience, uplift communities, and nurture sustainable livelihoods.

Led by Caritas India and Palli Unnayan Samiti (PUS), supported by the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart, Germany, and bolstered by local stakeholders, the project seeks not only to mitigate immediate risks but also to pave the way for a resilient future for the Sundarbans and its people.

To kickstart this initiative, Caritas India organized a project orientation and capacity-building training on April 15th and 16th 2024. Over two intensive days, the dedicated teams engaged in understanding and implementing various tools for micro-level village assessments, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), and strategic action planning.

The training commenced with an exploration of the fundamental concepts of Climate Change and its profound impacts on coastal communities. Through interactive sessions, the team delved into the essence of the project’s goals, understanding its intended outcomes, outputs, and the meticulous pathway to achieve them.

Practical application was key, as the team visited Dulki village of Gosaba to understand the application of the Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tool. There, they engaged with community members in Social and Resource Mapping, witnessing active participation from villagers who meticulously mapped out their resources and village structure, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment.

Day two continued with a focus on seasonal mapping, aligning with agriculture, weather patterns, labor dynamics, migration trends, and income sources. Through poignant community narratives, the profound impact of Climate Change on their lives became palpable, showcasing their adaptive resilience.

A pivotal moment arose during the Impact Analysis session, where interactive exchanges between project staff and community members unveiled underlying assumptions and perspectives. Together, they charted out an activity plan, laying the groundwork for micro-assessments and baseline preparation within the villages.

As the project progresses, tangible change and lasting impact are on the horizon. With ten Climate Resilient Gram Panchayat Development Plans and a strengthened network of skilled youths, women, and civil society organizations, the Sundarbans stands poised for resilience and renewal.

However, this journey is ongoing. Sustained monitoring and adaptive management will ensure that agreed-upon results are transformed into enduring realities. By fostering ongoing collaboration, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building, Caritas India and its partners chart a course toward a future where communities thrive in harmony with their environment.

In reflection, the training session stands as a testament to collaborative empowerment, igniting a spark of transformative ambition within the project team. Caritas India, in synergy with PUS, continues to illuminate the path towards sustainable development in the Sundarbans.