Muribahal block in Bolangir district (Odisha, India), faces multiple challenges that drive poverty and migration. The region suffers from frequent droughts, erratic rainfall, and rising temperatures, leading
to crop failures and water scarcity. Most farmers depend on rainfed agriculture and face soil degradation, low irrigation, and poor farm productivity. Forest loss and unsustainable harvesting
threaten both biodiversity and local livelihoods. Livestock farming, a key income source, remains unproductive due to poor veterinary access and outdated practices. These climate and livelihood
stresses, combined with limited access to resources, force many poor households—especially ultra poor and landless families—into seasonal distress migration. In response to these pressing challenges, the project aims to build climate resilience and secure livelihoods. By promoting sustainable agriculture, soil and water conservation, afforestation, and improved livestock practices, the project will reduce distress migration and enhance food and income security. Through community-led, nature-based solutions, it will empower women, migrant households, and small farmers to lead the way toward a more resilient and self-reliant future.

The project will support nature-based farming and land restoration by promoting agroforestry, organic composting, and water conservation methods like farm ponds and rainwater harvesting. These steps
will help improve soil health, increase farm productivity, and tackle water scarcity. At the same time, families will be trained in sustainable agriculture, kitchen gardening, and small businesses to help them
earn locally and avoid migrating for work.
Communities will take the lead in protecting forests, restoring water bodies, and promoting eco- friendly farming. Women and marginalized groups will get training in clean energy use and ecological
practices, and their leadership in local climate action will be encouraged. These efforts will help families grow more food, earn a better income near home, and face fewer hardships during dry seasons.