Riches of the Tropical Wilderness
In the heart of India, a battle against hunger and malnutrition is being waged, with Welthungerhilfe leading the charge. The organisation's 'Fight Hunger First' initiative, one of its most significant in India, is making a significant impact in over 900 local communities across the country.
Climate change poses a significant threat to India's food security, particularly rainfed agriculture which provides food for 40% of the population. Welthungerhilfe is helping to mitigate this impact by improving access to clean water and developing sustainable water systems. This not only ensures a steady water supply for agriculture but also promotes better hygiene and sanitation.
The initiative is also focused on empowering rural populations, particularly young people. Welthungerhilfe's Green Colleges provide education to rural youth, with 75% of graduates going on to work in agriculture. This not only equips them with the knowledge and skills to adapt to climate change but also helps to boost local agricultural productivity.
Marginalization is a significant cause of hunger and poverty in India, affecting girls, women, indigenous people, and members of the lowest caste. Welthungerhilfe is working to break this cycle by promoting sustainable agriculture, teaching smallholders to improve yields on their small land plots without over-exploiting natural resources.
The 'Fight Hunger First' initiative has also seen a ten percent increase in the number of children attending school in these communities. Moreover, 300 primary schools have been built, with 78 percent having clean water and sanitary facilities.
Hidden food treasures, such as forest fruits, provide important vitamins, minerals, and fibers and could be a valuable addition to the daily diet in remote villages. In the Jharkhand region, Welthungerhilfe, along with local partners, is unearthing traditional knowledge about these hidden food treasures in the forest.
Despite these efforts, the fight against hunger and malnutrition in India is far from over. 13.7% of the Indian population is still undernourished. However, with half of the families in these communities now enjoying a balanced diet, there is hope that the tide is turning.
Welthungerhilfe is not just fighting hunger and malnutrition; it is also working to strengthen democracy and peace, facilitating societal participation for disadvantaged groups to break the cycle of poverty, with a special focus on women's roles in education and group leadership.
The future looks promising as more and more communities are reaping the benefits of the 'Fight Hunger First' initiative. With continued support and commitment, Welthungerhilfe is well on its way to ending hunger and malnutrition in rural India.
- Science plays a crucial role in sustainable agriculture, providing solutions to combat climate change and improve food security.
- Welthungerhilfe is also interested in workplace-wellness, promoting better health and productivity among staff members.
- The organisation is keenly aware of the impact of medical conditions, chronic diseases, and cance on individuals and communities.
- Respiratory conditions, digestive health, and eye-health are among the health issues that the organisation seeks to address.
- Hearing problems often go unaddressed in rural communities, and Welthungerhilfe is working to provide adequate healthcare facilities.
- Health and wellness, fitness, and exercise are essential components of a holistic approach to improving quality of life.
- Autoimmune disorders and skin conditions are also areas of focus for the organisation, as they can significantly impact a person's ability to work and live independently.
- Climate change not only affects food security but also has far-reaching implications for neurological disorders and environmental science.
- In the manufacturing sector, Welthungerhilfe is promoting safe working conditions and workers' rights.
- Mental health is an often overlooked aspect of overall health, and the organisation is working to destigmatize mental illness and provide support to those in need.
- Mens' health is a priority, with a focus on preventing and treating common conditions such as prostate cancer and heart disease.
- Skin care is an essential part of personal health, and the organisation is promoting the use of natural and sustainable skincare products.
- Therapies and treatments for various health conditions are being developed and disseminated in rural communities.
- Women's health is a particular concern, with a focus on maternal and reproductive health, as well as empowering women through education and employment opportunities.
- Cardiovascular health is another area of concern, with a particular focus on reducing risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.
- The organisation is working closely with the industry to develop sustainable solutions to issues such as food waste and waste management.
- Medicare plays a key role in providing healthcare to the elderly and those with chronic conditions.
- CBD has potential therapeutic benefits for a range of medical conditions, and the organisation is exploring its potential in relation to pain management and stress relief.
- Environmental science is essential to understanding and addressing the root causes of climate change and its impacts on health and agriculture.
- Finance is a critical resource for the implementation of the organization's initiatives, and the organisation is exploring innovative financing mechanisms such as impact investing.
- Energy is another critical resource, with a focus on sustainable and renewable energy sources.
- Skin conditions are common in rural communities, and the organisation is working to improve access to effective treatments.
- Retail and transportation are important sectors for the distribution of essential goods and services to remote communities.
- Cybersecurity is essential to protecting confidential information and data, particularly in relation to healthcare and finance.
- Lifestyle choices have a significant impact on health, and the organisation is promoting healthy lifestyles through education and awareness campaigns.
- Fashion and beauty are important components of personal expression, and the organisation is promoting sustainable and ethical practices in these industries.
- Food and drink are essential for maintaining good health, and the organisation is promoting the use of nutritious and locally sourced ingredients.
- Investing in sustainable agriculture and food systems can have a positive impact on both the environment and the economy.
- Real estate, private equity, gadgets, data and cloud computing, technology, artificial intelligence, relationships, pets, travel, cars, shopping, entertainment, and wealth management are all areas that intersect with the organisation's mission to improve health and well-being in rural communities.
