Gram Nirman programme operational in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh to support the tribal communities for their socio-economic wellbeing has shown encouraging progress. The programme has improved access of tribal communities to various entitlements and manages resources through village level institutions.

In both the states, Caritas India is able to create 1851 functional village institutions, 29317 Social entitlement, approved 76 village resource management plan for their proper utilisation, increased crop production of 8053 Farmers through diversification and other adaptive measures, improved income of 9860 marginalised sections through off-farm, forest and other possible means, ensured identity of 4613 marginalised sections, 3692 marginalised sections contributed in decision-making process and developed 18 model villages. These are some of the shared achievements realized in 138 Gram Nirman programme villages of Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.  These achievements have been shared by the partners at the Gram Nirman Cluster Programme review organised by Caritas India at Human Resource Development Centre Ranchi, Jharkhand from June 17-81, 2019.

Part of the review meetings, appreciation to partners for the program achievements: Legal Cell which is empowering initiative in changing political complexity. The provision of PESA/FRA gave great support to the tribal communities to demand entitlements.  Model village approach within Gram Nirman is a good strategy to create a model to set the example for the other villages. Establishment of Farmers Resource Centre will empower the community in terms of new agriculture initiatives, adopt eco-friendly systems wherein different information could be disseminated. More consultation and interface with Government departments to be organized. Need more attention to the most vulnerable section through the program, ensure the to cover 100% in terms of supporting them for their income generation activities said Mr. Samir Stephen Kujur – operational manager for East & North-East zone.

Given the background of Caritas Australia supported Gram Nirman Programme for the successive two years of implementation and the new Caritas India Strategy shaped by 4 Key Strategic Pillars (KSP) have much in common. Where Gram Nirman is focused on two three outcomes mainly strengthening community governance through effective Gram Sabhas, Increased income through livelihood support and initiatives and the 3rd outcomes as the support to be provided to the community and most vulnerable sections of the village community to restore their identity and improve economically – linking them with relevant government schemes apart from the support available from the Programme.

All of these above has a people-centered approach where the community needs to come forth and participate actively to ensure that their concerns are addressed effectively through their own involvement. Gram Nirman has had maiden achievements in this direction, however, there is long way to go thus the partners have been thoroughly oriented on 4KSP (Empowering Animator, Dialogue, Volunteering & Sharing Community) and have been suggested to even report from the KSP Lenses emphasized by Mr. Alexander Kerketta – Thematic Manager for Tribal Development.