Locations
Baghamari village, Odisha
I recently visited Gupti and Baghamari village in Rajnagar block in Odisha. It was a privilege to meet so many inspiring people, hear their voices and see their incredible achievements. I was struck by the wealth of knowledge and incredible passion. I took away three lessons
this interaction with the champions, leaders and institutions who are applying knowledge. As well as the communities that are carrying out local actions to power our march towards the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sustainable human development for all in India.
Crocodiles in Gupti village, Odisha
First, restoring ecosystems needs applied science, traditional knowledge and community commitment.
I witnessed firsthand the excellent work done by the Department of Forestry, Environment and Climate Change, Government of Odisha with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). Since 2023, up to 67,500 mangrove plants have been planted over an area of 27 ha in just two years. The community has been instrumental in nurturing mega nurseries with over 60 varieties of mangrove. The use of the innovative fishbone system of irrigation to spur faster growth has already transformed the landscape. Community members demonstrated their understanding of the positive impact of mangroves in mitigating the impact of cyclones, rising tides and sea erosion by setting aside additional land to extend these mangrove plantations. Park authorities from Bhitarkanika National Park also worked with the community to reverse encroachment caused by prawn dykes and reclaimed even more land for mangrove regeneration.
Gupti village, Odisha
Second, sustainable livelihoods can only thrive when people’s needs and nature’s needs are met.
It was evident from the recently harvested fields and fishponds that there is vast agricultural potential from aquaculture, crop cultivation and livestock. Harnessing this potential will require healthy soils and fresh water. It was refreshing to hear the plans and commitment from the District Collector in Kendrapada to grow nature-based livelihoods. Encouraging the rehabilitation of village ponds for aquaculture, promoting value addition and supporting organic and climate resistant agriculture will transform lives. I enjoyed seeing crocodiles and all the birds that are thriving in the restored mangrove ecosystem. This has the potential to attract more tourists and diversify sources of income.
Kendrapada, Odisha
Third, resilient communities are inclusive and innovative.
It was a pleasure to meet the community at Baghamari. They shared their deep understanding of the individual and communal benefits of restoring the mangrove ecosystem. They mentioned improved soil productivity and reduced agricultural inputs. The mangroves also acted as a buffer against cyclone damage from the recent severe cyclonic storm Dana that made landfall in Odisha in October 2024. From primary school students to women farmers, local leaders and youth champions we heard a clear call to action for climate resilient rice cultivation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as well as the need to stop plastic pollution. I was impressed by the clear messages articulated through art by the children, visual presentations by young climate champions, traditional dances and a creative play. The play was particularly insightful as the young “women of science” changed their perspective from indifference to innovating to take better care of Mother Earth through tackling plastic waste.
Climate Champion, Odisha
This interaction with the community, civil society organisations and local government shows that our collaboration in enhancing the climate resilience of India’s coastal communities is helping to improve livelihoods. UNDP remains committed to supporting resilient lives and livelihoods of vulnerable populations and women through ecosystem restoration, climate smart livelihoods and community engagement.
Gupti, Odisha
