Empower Fisher & Landless Communities in Odisha

With the support of Action Village India, the From Vulnerability to Resilience project has made significant strides in its first year. The initiative, led by Regional Centre for Development Cooperation, works with over 6,000 vulnerable families across 32 villages, strengthening livelihoods, securing land and fishing rights, and promoting ecological restoration.

Key Highlights (2023–24)

• Stronger village institutions: 179 grassroots groups now active, including self-help groups, youth clubs, and disaster management committees.

• Women-led livelihoods: 162 SHGs involving nearly 2,000 women supported with alternative income—dry fish, goat rearing, poultry, crab culture, mushroom and watermelon farming.

• Producer Company launched: The Padma Udaya Jibika Producer Company registered with 250 shareholders, producing spices and dry fish under the new Handishal Masala brand.

• Nutrition gardens: 500 families growing vegetables for food security and better diets.

• Environmental impact: Over 160,000 trees planted (casuarina, mangrove, cashew, coconut), protecting the fragile coastline and creating future income.

• Labour banks (Shram Banks): 4 groups formed, providing a financial safety net with community-managed revolving funds.

• Increased income: More than 2,250 families are now earning an extra 2,000–3,000 per month from new livelihood activities.

Looking Ahead

The project continues to reduce distress migration, strengthen women’s leadership, and promote sustainable enterprises. As communities build resilience, solidarity and self-reliance, Chilika’s fisherfolk are showing that development and ecological protection can go hand in hand.

Together, we are building stronger, greener, and fairer futures.

• From_Vulnerability_to_Resilience_Progress_Report_year_1.pdf (PDF)