To enhance food security and resilience among smallholder farmers, Caritas India recently hosted a two-day Partner Review Cum Reflection Meeting for the Smallholder Adaptive Farming & Biodiversity Network (SAFBIN) III program. Held on July 30-31, 2024, at the MVSS Centre in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, the meeting brought together key partners, including Manav Vikas Seva Sangh (MVSS) and Jabalpur Diocesan Social Development Society (JDSSS), to reflect on progress and strategize for the future.

As climate change continues to threaten the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, the SAFBIN initiative aims to provide sustainable agricultural practices and coping mechanisms to combat these challenges. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for collaborative efforts to secure the livelihoods of farmers who are increasingly vulnerable to environmental changes.

Dr. Mukund Deshmukh, who welcomed participants, emphasized the critical role of SAFBIN in addressing the negative impacts of climate change on agriculture. He noted that improper resource management and environmental degradation have led to significant challenges for smallholder farmers, making it imperative for communities and organizations to adopt sustainable practices. The SAFBIN III program aims to empower farmers through climate-adaptive strategies, ensuring they can withstand the pressures of climate variability.

Zonal Program Lead Dr. Saju MK set the stage for the meeting by outlining the project’s objectives, which focus on climate change mitigation, community mobilization, and the empowerment of women in agriculture. He stressed the importance of securing food, livelihood, and nutrition for smallholder farmers through innovative practices such as On-Farm Adaptive Research (OFAR) and Integrated Farming Systems (IFS).

Caritas India integrated On-Farm Adaptive Research (OFAR) approach to identifying and implement practical, locally adapted farming techniques by involving farmers in research. It emphasized collaboration with farmers for effective solutions that cater to the specific challenges they face. Similarly, the Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) approach focussed on combining different agricultural enterprises to optimize resource use and enhance productivity and sustainability.

The meeting served as a platform for partners to share their success stories from the past four months. Presentations from JDSS and MVSS partners showcased tangible impacts achieved through the establishment of community-managed nurseries and localized agricultural techniques. These initiatives have not only improved soil health but have also enhanced the resilience of farming communities against climate change.

One notable success was the testimony of Mr. Ramcharan, a farmer from the Tinsua project village in Sagar District. He expressed gratitude for the support received from the SAFBIN program, stating, “The organization is giving us good support, and we are interested in learning and practicing the IFS model on my farm.” Such testimonials highlight the program’s effectiveness in fostering a sense of community and shared learning among farmers.

The second day of the meeting focused on collaborative planning for the next four months. Partner organizations engaged in group work to develop detailed action plans, ensuring that all activities align with the overarching goals of the SAFBIN program. This collaborative approach not only promotes transparency but also empowers participants to take ownership of their contributions to the program’s success.

Mr. Soju Mathew, Finance Associate, addressed key financial considerations and management practices, reinforcing the importance of effective resource utilization. The meeting concluded with a comprehensive action plan that outlines expected results, budget allocations, and timelines for implementation.

Fr. Thomas Philip from MVSSS Sagar expressed optimism about the project’s impact, noting, “It is a positive sign that farmers are coming forward and helping each other towards sustainable agriculture and food security.” Similarly, Fr. Dominic Thomas, Director of JDSSS, highlighted the growing awareness among farmers regarding sustainable practices, stating, “Small steps by every farmer will lead to transformation in the agriculture sector.”

As the meeting wrapped up, the collective sentiment was one of hope and determination. The SAFBIN III program not only aims to secure the livelihoods of smallholder farmers but also seeks to foster a culture of resilience and sustainability in one of the most vulnerable regions affected by climate change.

The insights and knowledge shared during this review meeting are expected to take root and flourish, paving the way for a more self-reliant future for smallholder farmers in central India. As stakeholders continue to collaborate and innovate, the journey towards food sovereignty and climate resilience remains a shared commitment, promising a brighter future for communities across the region.