We have been partnering with communities for the past 14 years, but as our work matured, we saw how an integrated, systems-based approach can benefit both the communities and the ecology of Khatarshnong–Laitkroh C&RD Block, in ways that build resilience, strengthen livelihoods and sustain the ecological integrity of the landscape.
During 2022-2024, NESFAS engaged with the Indigenous Partnership for Agrobiodiversity and Food Sovereignty (TIP), Rome, for an agroecological assessment using the FAO’s TAPE methodology (Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation). This led to the development of an Outcome Framework with a focus on biodiversity, nutrition, livelihood and climate resilience.
Building on this, we have worked together with CAT to develop a landscape-based plan for agroecological transformation, grounded in the strengths, opportunities and social, economic and ecological imperatives of Khatarshnong–Laitkroh C&RD Block. This plan lays forth the long-term interventions needed in the landscape, and also estimates the resources needed to ensure this can be implemented and sustained over a long-term period. We are thankful to the team at Dialectics for supporting us in this process.
Through this journey, our understanding of agroecology has deepened — not just as a set of practices, but as a framework that integrates ecology, culture, livelihoods, and governance. It has shifted the focus from improving yields to strengthening resilience, equity, and well-being across the landscape, and reinforced the importance of local agency and collective action in shaping long-term change.
Read more here [PDF will be available soon]
Video hyperlink: Cultivating Tomorrow – Scaling Agroecology for India