Caritas India

Caritas India excels in Disaster Risk Reduction through a holistic approach that combines Relief, Rehabilitation, and Development (LRRD). The Indian subcontinent faces significant vulnerability to natural disasters due to its geographical and climatic conditions. These hazards are worsened by socio-economic factors, urbanization, development in high-risk areas, environmental degradation, climate change, geological risks, epidemics, and pandemics. Aligning with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, Caritas India is dedicated to building disaster-resilient nations and communities, recognizing the close link between DRR and Sustainable Development. Despite collective efforts by the Government and civil society organisations, the persistent challenge of disasters remains formidable.

Caritas India is actively involved in promoting sustainable agriculture and food sovereignty to address the ecological damage caused by intensified agricultural practices, including the indiscriminate use of chemicals. The organisation aims to counteract issues like soil erosion, water contamination, and biodiversity loss resulting from these practices. Additionally, Caritas India recognizes the disproportionate impact of pesticide exposure on developing countries' populations. Through its initiatives, it seeks to foster environmentally friendly agricultural methods and protect both ecosystems and human health.

Caritas India actively engages in livelihood and skill development initiatives, particularly targeting marginalized communities in both rural and urban areas. The organisation focuses on providing the necessary skills for economic growth and inclusive development, aiming to secure livelihood opportunities, enhance relevant skills, and increase income for these communities. Through organisation, support, and networking, marginalized groups are empowered economically, fostering long-term impacts. This approach not only leads to improved livelihoods but also equips youth with leadership skills and a sense of social responsibility, making them valuable contributors to their communities and promoting socio-economic sustainability and a better quality of life.

Caritas India is committed to ending human slavery and restoring dignity. Recognizing global social and income inequalities, it facilitates safe migration to bridge divides. Since the late 1990s, it has combated unsafe migration and human trafficking, assisting returnees through the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) programme. It revived the All India Network to End Human Trafficking (AINEHT) and studied cross-border trafficking. It also participated in the Christian Organisation against Trafficking Network (COATNET) meetings, contributing to the 2016-2020 strategic plan.

Caritas India is dedicated to improving health and nutrition, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized populations in both urban and rural areas. Its efforts encompass education and enhancing access to affordable healthcare services. The organisation prioritizes the prevention of HIV/AIDS and Malaria in regions with high prevalence rates while also mitigating their impact. Caritas India collaborates with national and state authorities, such as the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) and Gujarat State AIDS Control Society (GSACS), to implement community health and HIV/AIDS programmes, emphasizing behavioural changes, particularly among high-risk groups. Additionally, it is actively involved in the Intensified Malaria Control Project-II in the North East in partnership with the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme of the Government of India.