One of the pleasures of being a part of the Youth4Water Plus team is the opportunity it provides for meaningful, inspiring interactions. For those unfamiliar with Youth4Water Plus, it is a dynamic UNICEF-led campaign that has reached over 400,000 young individuals to create awareness, and motivate action for climate change and WASH.
One such inspiring interaction happened on our recent visit to the breathtaking village of Pindergadia, nestled amidst the natural beauty of Mayurbhanj lies Pindergadia village, where, the relentless pursuit of survival once led tribal youths down a perilous path of poaching. However, as Sangram NGO & youth from Youth4Water Plus intervened, an inspiring tale of hope unfolded in this village, transforming these young individuals from poachers to protectors. Today, Pindergadia stands tall as a beacon of sustainable development and alternative livelihoods, showcasing the power of human resilience and the harmony between nature and community.
In the heart of Pindergadia village, lived numerous wild animals. For ages, owing to a lack of livelihood opportunities, the villagers had turned to poaching. At this junction, a metamorphosis occurred, sparked by Youth4Water Plus & Sangram NGO’s dedicated intervention. Recognizing the potential within the tribal youth, these organizations kindled a sense of purpose and reconnected them with the bond between humans and nature. The shift from poaching to protection became the defining moment that set Pindergadia on its transformative journey.
What made this transition remarkable was that it was led by youth. Realizing the immense potential of their agricultural outputs, the tribal youth of Pindergadia worked to establish strong market linkages. The result of breaking free from the confines of their village, their luscious mangoes now grace the tables of larger markets, becoming ambassadors of exquisite taste and social change. This newfound economic empowerment has transformed their lives and ignited a sense of pride and self-reliance within the community.
As the looming spectre of climate change cast its shadow on nearby Simlipal forest, Pindergadia’s tribal youth refused to turn a blind eye. They emerged as faithful guardians of the forest, fearlessly combating raging forest fires and protecting the lives of countless species. Their deep-rooted connection with nature fueled their determination to safeguard the irreplaceable natural heritage, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
The transition from poaching to preservation in Pindergadia has yielded more than ecological rejuvenation. The mango orchards that now flourish in the block have blossomed into a symbol of prosperity, as each ton of mangoes sold brings substantial profits of 1.4 lakhs. This bountiful success has enriched the lives of the tribal youths. It paved the way for sustainable community development, including access to better healthcare, education, and improved infrastructure.
Pindergadia’s journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of collective action led by the youth from the Youth4Water Plus campaign and interventions by NGO Sangram. The metamorphosis from poaching to prosperity has not only redefined the lives of the tribal youth but has also fostered an enduring legacy of environmental conservation and sustainable livelihood. As Pindergadia continues to radiate hope and resilience, it stands as a shining example for communities worldwide, reminding us all that through unity, determination, and a deep reverence for nature, we can overcome adversity and shape a future brimming with possibilities.
Debi Kalyani Nayak alumni of OUAT & XIMB. Debi is passionate in travelling & ZUMBA.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog reflects the author’s research, and personal experiences. Youth4Water Plus neither endorses, nor is responsible for the views expressed by the author.
