Kolkata: Caritas India, the social development arm of Catholic Bishops Conference of India, recently launched a new project 'Uttoran' (uplift) in West Bengal. The aim of the project is to train the marginalised farmers in employing right farming methods, improving access to water and replenishing soil nutrients thus elevating their socio-economic status.
Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Chapra, Bihar, Rukhbanur Rahaman, was the chief guest on the occasion.
The Executive Director of Caritas India, Father Frederick D'Souza in his message stressed the need for reviving the agricultural sector in rural India. Citing the recent cut in allocation of funds for rural development in the union budget, he asked the government to prioritize the rural sector by providing livelihood security among small farmers.
The project aims to make farming more effective at a time when most villages are witnessing reverse migration, resulting in three per cent dip in rural wage growth. Its focus will be on expanding agricultural research, reforming of land tenancy systems especially in the Hills (Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling) besides facilitating agricultural marketing.
According to a media report, budgetary allocation for rural development this year was the lowest in the past three years.
The three-year project shall cover a range of marginalized household of 105 villages across 10 blocks, ensuring sustainable livelihood opportunities through organic farming while attaining legitimate rights and entitlements to them.
Later in his message Mr. Rukhbanur Rahaman also promised all support for implementation of the project in his constituency.
A similar project was launched on early this year in the state of Telegana. Another one is scheduled for launch on May 8 in Karnataka, said the press release.
Established in 1962, Caritas India has spent four decades in humanitarian and development efforts.
