Over the past decade, overfishing in Lake Chilika, water pollution caused by irresponsible tourism, ecological degradation, and the increasing frequency of cyclones have threatened traditional livelihoods. Small-scale fishers and landless families - particularly women - remain excluded from decision-making spaces and means to earning an income. This project aims to make these communities resilient, be prepared for climate shocks, earn sustainable, alternative income and reduce migration.
Lake Chilika's fisherfolk and landless communities face poverty, resource alienation, and environmental challenges. Climate impacts, including cyclones and coastal erosion, harm livelihoods, while irresponsible tourism further threatens livelihoods and degrades the environment. Landlessness prevents families from leading dignified lives, and migration worsens due to lack of income opportunities. Women and marginalised communities suffer disproportionately.
The project will facilitate promote alternative livelihoods, including crab culture, poultry farming, goat rearing, eco-tourism and spice processing across 55 villages. Women-led Self Help Groups will receive training, tools, and market linkages under a producer company model. Community led coastal plantations will restore ecological balance, while labour banks provide financial support during lean periods. Clean drinking water will be provided for the region via 2 water purification centres.
This project will empower fisher-families to break cycles of poverty through diversified livelihoods and financial support. Women will play central roles in local enterprise, enhancing income and decision-making power. Climate-resilient practices will safeguard livelihoods from environmental shocks. Migration will reduce as labour banks offer local economic security. By strengthening local institutions and promoting ecological restoration, the project ensures long-term socio-economic stability.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
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