In Odisha, in northeast India, almost a third of the population lives below the poverty line - many families depend on agriculture. However, climate change is worsening the situation with extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall, prolonged droughts and falling groundwater levels. Farmers in Kandhamal district are particularly affected, suffering from food insecurity and loss of income.
Since August 2023, we have been working with the Madhyam Foundation to strengthen the resilience of the local population. Our project promotes sustainable and climate-smart agriculture, improves water supply and creates new sources of income.
The project is about strengthening people's resilience. The core of the project is to train farmers in sustainable farming methods that are adapted to climate change. We are already seeing great success. The application of the new techniques not only helps to increase agricultural productivity, but also to diversify the nutritional intake among the households. It motivates us to see such great achievements in our communities within a short period of time.
Alok Jyoti Mohanty, Executive Project Manager of MF
Organic farming for a brighter future
Farmers are trained in organic farming methods to grow vegetables, rice, pulses, cereals and millet. They receive high-yielding seeds and benefit from new water harvesting systems. Practical demonstrations on pest control, soil management and organic fertiliser ('amritjal') support sustainable agriculture.
Access to markets and alternative livelihoods
To make it easier to sell their produce, smallholders are being trained in collective marketing and the use of village collection points. Landless families receive goats and learn how to generate additional income through animal husbandry.
The project reaches 5,000 families - a total of 21,800 women and men in 52 communities. Together, we are creating prospects for a secure and sustainable future.
Many women in Kandhamal experiencegender-based violence and discrimination. The project aimsstrengthening women by allowing them to participate invarious trainings, workshops and producer groups.
Beneficiaries are trained in sustainable organic farming methods and the establishment of home gardens. This not only helps to improve their income, but also diversifies their own food situation.
The climate change action groups are also responsible for the supervision and maintenance of theirrigation systems.
Projectinfo
| Place/Region | Kandhamal, Odisha, India |
|---|---|
| Partner | Madhyam Foundation |
| Activities |
|
| Duration | 01.08.2023 – 31.07.2026 |
| Budget | 1.2 million Euro total volume |
| Sponsor | Bundesministerium für Wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ) and Aktion Deutschland Hilft (ADH) |
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