Real stories of transformation from the communities we serve across Odisha.
Every life changed is a testament to the power of community-driven development. Here are some of the inspiring case studies from our work.
Rayagada, Odisha
In the remote tribal villages of Rayagada, many young children grow up facing serious nutritional challenges. Limited access to nutritious food, healthcare, and early childhood learning opportunities often affects their physical and cognitive development.
In the small village of Makaguda, three-year-old James Kimbaka, the son of Rabi Kimbaka and Pratima Kimbaka, was one such child. Like many children in the area, James belonged to a vulnerable tribal family struggling to meet daily food needs.
Before the intervention of FORWARD's community-based nutrition programme, James was frequently weak and had little energy to play or interact with other children. His parents were concerned about his health but had limited knowledge and resources to improve his nutrition.
Recognizing the urgent need to support children like James, FORWARD started a Preschool and Nutrition Programme in several tribal villages of the Gudari block in Rayagada district with support from Jiv Daya Foundation.
Through this programme, children aged 0-5 years receive daily nutritional support including milk and biscuits, along with joyful early childhood learning activities in village centres.
James soon began attending the community preschool centre regularly. Every morning, he joined other children in singing songs, learning basic skills, and sharing nutritious food.
Within a few months, visible changes began to appear. James became more active, energetic, and cheerful. His health improved, and he started participating enthusiastically in learning activities with other children. His mother noticed that he was growing stronger and more confident.
The programme also helped James's parents understand the importance of nutrition, hygiene, and regular care for young children.
Today, James represents the hope that small, community-based initiatives can bring to remote tribal villages. Through FORWARD's preschool and nutrition programme in Rayagada, more than 200 young children are receiving daily nourishment and early learning opportunities that support their healthy growth and development.
"Now my son is stronger and happier. Every day he is eager to go to the centre and learn with other children."
Mayurbhanj, Odisha
In the remote villages of Mayurbhanj, farming has always been a way of life for tribal families. But in recent years, erratic rainfall and declining soil fertility have made agriculture increasingly difficult. Many families struggled to produce enough food to sustain their households.
Among them was Sabitri Murmu, a small tribal farmer and mother of three. Like many women in her village, Sabitri worked tirelessly in the fields but had little control over agricultural decisions or income. Her family relied mainly on rain-fed paddy cultivation, which often failed due to unpredictable weather.
In 2021, Sabitri became part of the Climate Resilient Millet Cultivation and Consumption Programme implemented by FORWARD with support from Shree Anna Abhiyan.
Through the programme, Sabitri received training in millet cultivation, soil health management, and sustainable farming practices. She also joined a group of tribal women farmers who began collectively reviving traditional millet crops that had nearly disappeared from their fields.
Millets proved to be a turning point. Unlike many other crops, millets require very little water and are naturally resistant to drought. With the knowledge and support she received, Sabitri successfully cultivated millets on her small plot of land. The crop survived even when rainfall was low.
For the first time in many years, her family harvested enough food not only for their household consumption but also for selling in the local market.
The impact went beyond income. Millets improved the family's nutrition. Sabitri began preparing millet-based meals for her children, providing them with more nutritious food rich in iron, calcium, and fiber.
Equally important was the transformation in Sabitri's confidence. Today, she is recognized in her village as a knowledgeable farmer and actively shares her experiences with other women. She participates in community meetings and encourages other families to adopt climate-resilient farming practices.
Sabitri's story reflects a larger change taking place across Mayurbhanj, where 3,500 tribal women farmers are now engaged in millet cultivation through FORWARD's programme.
"Millets have given us strength. Even when the rains fail, our crops survive and our families have food."
Lives Impacted
Villages Reached
Women Empowered
Children Nourished