Shubh Kal: The Blueprint of Resilience and Hope
Geeta Kushwaha, a 46-year-old resident of Vinvara village, faced dire circumstances when her 5-acre farmland became infertile due to erratic weather patterns in Bundelkhand. The once fertile land, where she cultivated wheat, pulses, and vegetables, could no longer sustain her family. Due to severe droughts and unseasonal rains in the region, Geeta and her family, like many small farmers in the region, had no choice but to abandon their land and migrate to the city in search of better opportunities. Their life in the city was challenging, marked by a yearning for their village and the life they had left behind.
Then, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, forcing migrants like Geeta to return to their homes. It was during this time that Geeta discovered Radio Bundelkhand, which became a beacon of hope for her. She was particularly drawn to discussions about horticulture and organic farming, which she found both educational and inspiring.
Encouraged by the ideas she heard on the radio, Geeta decided to transform her barren land into a thriving orchard. She discussed her plan with her family, and together they embarked on the arduous journey of reviving their farm. They planted seasonal fruit trees on an acre of their land and started making organic compost at home, a technique they learned from the Shubh Kal programmes. With the modest water supply from a nearby pond, they nurtured their orchard, hoping for the best.
Geeta’s story is a testament to the transformative power of community-driven initiatives like Shubh Kal. Led by Development Alternatives since 2008, Radio Bundelkhand’s flagship campaign, Shubh Kal aims to build resilience among rural communities in Bundelkhand against climate change. The initiative leverages community radio to disseminate critical information about climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, bridging the gap between scientists, policymakers, and local communities.
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The Shubh Kal campaign, which means ‘for a better future’, is a dynamic programme aimed at fostering resilience within rural communities in Bundelkhand against the impacts of climate change. This initiative ensures that vital climate-related information and sustainable agricultural practices are communicated to those who require it the most.
Shubh Kal's achievements stem from its innovative use of 'Communication for Development' (C4D) methodologies. These methods ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable are heard and addressed. By facilitating dialogues between the farming community, scientists, and policymakers, the initiative has fostered a more inclusive approach to climate adaptation and mitigation. This collaborative effort has not only enhanced local knowledge and practices but also influenced policy decisions at higher echelons.
The Shubh Kal campaign, supported by organisations like the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) and the Environment Planning and Coordination Organisation (EPCO), has made a positive impact on more than 600,000 people across 450 villages through its network of community radios. The campaign has enabled over 2000 farmers to adopt climate-resilient agricultural practices, positioning them as influential advocates for change within their communities.
The impact of Shubh Kal extends beyond just numbers. The campaign has garnered support from various governmental and non-governmental organisations, including the EPCO, the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) at the University of Sussex, and the Third Pole Project. The campaign’s emphasis on using community radio (Radio Bundelkhand) as a platform for knowledge sharing and dialogue has set a precedent for similar interventions in other vulnerable regions. Furthermore, it has been proven as a powerful tool in driving behaviour change and policy advocacy.
Shubh Kal’s journey, much like Geeta Kushwaha’s, is one of hope and resilience, embodying the spirit of Bundelkhand's people. Despite the immense challenges posed by climate change, the opportunities for positive transformation are abundant. Geeta’s story, along with many others, is a beacon of what is possible when knowledge, community spirit, and innovative communication converge.
As the region continues to face the brunt of climate change, Shubh Kal’s work is more critical than ever. It is not just a campaign but a movement towards a sustainable future for Bundelkhand. The campaign’s ongoing efforts showcase the indomitable spirit of its people and the transformative power of community-driven initiatives. As Geeta waits for the rains to nourish her orchard, she remains hopeful and grateful for the knowledge and support that Shubh Kal has provided. Her story is a powerful reminder that the time for action is now, and together, with the right tools and collective effort, a better tomorrow – a Shubh Kal – is within reach.