Caritas India and its partners came together to reflect on a journey of transformation—one that has equipped farmers, laborers, and marginalized families across West Bengal, Karnataka, and Telangana to adapt to changing climates and secure sustainable livelihoods.

The two-day review meeting of Caritas India’s Uttoran (U3) project from 29-30 November 2024 brought together key stakeholders at the Social Welfare Institute, Raiganj, West Bengal. This initiative, active in West Bengal, Karnataka, and Telangana, focuses on strengthening community-owned processes to enhance climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable livelihoods.

The two-day gathering wasn’t merely a review; it became a dynamic exchange of ideas, successes, and strategies. Stories of farmers adopting climate-smart practices, volunteers bridging gaps between communities and governance, and families finding new means of income stood out as powerful examples of what can be achieved when collective action meets grassroots determination.

Fr. Benedict, Director of the Social Welfare Institute, welcomed distinguished dignitaries, including Most Rev. Bishop Fulgence (Bishop of Raiganj), Fr. Anthony Fernandes (Executive Director, Caritas India), Ms. Babita Pinto (Head of Programmes, Caritas India), and Mr. Nixon Mathew (Finance Associate, Caritas India). Acknowledging the collective efforts of the project’s stakeholders, Fr. Benedict emphasized the transformative role of collaboration in driving sustainable change.

Ms. Babita Pinto emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration among partners. An engaging introduction session allowed participants to share their roles, strengthening mutual respect and camaraderie. Recognizing the steadfast efforts of the implementing organizations—ABSK, JSS, KCCSS, PUS SKC, SKS, and SWI—she lauded their commitment to addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Setting the tone, Fr. Anthony Fernandes urged participants to focus on the needs of the poor and marginalized while creating sustainable, locally driven solutions. His message reinforced the value of collective action, aligning with Caritas India’s mission to uphold human dignity through grassroots empowerment.

The project has made remarkable strides in transforming the lives of rural communities. Dr. Haridas VR, the project lead, presented key achievements. Through structured animation and dialogue with duty bearers, over 1,500 volunteers have facilitated access to government schemes and entitlements. These efforts have strengthened community-government collaboration, improving service delivery and fostering social justice.

Climate-resilient agriculture practices (CAAP) have been pivotal in enhancing livelihoods. Farmers adopted innovative techniques such as mulching, multi-cropping, intercropping, and integrated farming. These practices not only increased agricultural productivity but also ensured sustainable use of natural resources. For landless families, off-farm activities like cattle rearing, bird rearing, pisciculture, and organic vegetable vending provided alternative income sources.

Such initiatives have contributed to improved family incomes, reduced migration, and enhanced resilience against socio-economic shocks. The adoption of sustainable practices is a testament to the project’s long-term vision for ecological balance and self-reliance.

A key driver of the project’s success has been its extensive volunteer network. These trained individuals organized capacity-building programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns to empower communities. Volunteers facilitated knowledge sharing, provided tools and resources, and guided beneficiaries in navigating bureaucratic processes. Their support ensured access to government subsidies and schemes, amplifying the impact at the grassroots level.

Most Rev. Bishop Fulgence commended Caritas India for its unwavering dedication to uplifting marginalized communities. He particularly noted the project’s role in addressing migration challenges within his diocese. Encouraging future interventions, the Bishop urged Caritas India to focus on restoring the dignity and livelihoods of affected families.

Representatives from implementing partners shared detailed findings, highlighting increased incomes, adoption of sustainable farming practices, and strengthened community resilience as significant outcomes.

As the project approaches its conclusion in December 2024, discussions centered on ensuring a smooth transition. Ms. Babita Pinto outlined steps for sustaining project outcomes, including handing over registers and documents to community-based organizations (CBOs) and village committees. She stressed the importance of exit meetings to empower local groups to continue the initiatives independently.

In his closing remarks, Fr. Anthony Fernandes expressed gratitude to all participants for their active engagement. He encouraged state-level events to amplify outreach and stressed the importance of addressing local issues through collective action. Reaffirming Caritas India’s support, he reiterated the shared mission of empowering communities for sustainable development.