Kendrapara is witnessing a remarkable transformation. Women in this region are stepping up as climate champions, taking active roles in protecting their environment and boosting their communities. Since 2023, these women have been trained through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in a project called Enhancing Climate Resilience of India’s Coastal Communities (ECRICC). This initiative is a joint effort involving the Green Climate Fund, the Odisha government, and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
Recently, a team from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) visited Krushna Nagar panchayat to see the climate initiatives firsthand. They interacted with local champions who are helping to promote sustainable practices—like crab cultivation and System of Rice Intensification (SRI)—right at people’s doorsteps. The champions are not just raising awareness; they are changing lives. Around 5,000 families have started to benefit from these new farming methods.
According to current data, nearly 6,907 farmers are now using the SRI method across 1,726.75 acres. In addition, 10 families have begun commercial crab farming, while another 10 are venturing into ornamental fish farming under the ECRICC project’s guidance. These changes are significant, especially for a community that once resisted new farming techniques.
Puspalata Khamari, a climate champion from Krushna Nagar, emphasized the importance of mangrove forests, which protect communities from cyclones. “We feel safer during natural disasters because of the mangroves,” she stated.
The IIMC students documented their experience over two days, filming a documentary about crocodile conservation and exploring the mangrove forest. They hiked several kilometers through the forest, immersing themselves in its natural beauty. Rajnagar DFO Varadaraj Gaonkar shared insights about the ECRICC project, highlighting its partnership with the forest department and the UNDP’s role in ensuring the success of climate resilience efforts.
The students found inspiration in the work being done by local champions. Deepanshu Jha, Megha Singh, and Aradhana Dash expressed excitement about creating documentaries that would be presented at a national level. Their experience emphasizes the powerful connection between community efforts and environmental preservation.
As climate change becomes an increasingly pressing issue, grassroots movements like this one in Kendrapara are crucial. Communities that adapt and innovate not only protect their livelihoods but also contribute to global efforts against climate change. According to a recent survey by the Climate Reality Project, over 70% of people believe local environmental initiatives can lead to broader change. This trend reflects the growing global awareness of the importance of grassroots activism in combating environmental challenges.
This story of transformation in Kendrapara highlights the resilience and determination of its community, showing that change starts at the local level.
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Climate Champions, Kendrapara, UNDP ECRICC, Mangrove Conservation, SRI Cultivation, Livelihood Empowerment
