India: Church-Run Training in Manipur Promotes Sustainable Agriculture Among Displaced Communities
In a commendable effort to support internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the local community by strengthening livelihoods through skill and vocational development, the Diocesan Social Service Society (DSSS) of the Archdiocese of Imphal, in collaboration with the Italian Bishops' Conference, organized a two-day training program on sustainable agricultural practices from August 1–2, 2025, at St. Joseph’s School in Singngat.
The program began with an opening prayer led by Mr. Joseph Tumnou, Church Leader of St. Joseph's Church in Munpi Village, followed by a welcome address from Fr. Mung, the Parish Priest and Principal of St. Joseph’s School. He encouraged all participants to actively engage in the training and apply the knowledge gained to their home-based farming efforts.
Mr. Thomas Paupi, the seminar coordinator, provided insights into the program’s objectives, implementation strategies, and the ongoing activities of DSSS.
The sessions were led by Muanna Buansing, a State Resource Person from MSRLM & Thrive for Good, Manipur, whoconducted theoretical classes on the first day and hands-on practical sessions on the second day, focusing particularly on sapling planting. The training covered essential topics such as innovative farming methods, organic agriculture, reducing environmental impact, and optimizing resource use.
A total of 70 participants, including both youth and elders, as well as IDPs from various relief camps, registered for the seminar. This diverse turnout highlighted a shared commitment to building a more sustainable future through agriculture. The interactive format of the sessions encouraged participants to share their own experiences and explore ways to apply sustainable practices in their farms or livelihood ventures.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Thomas Paupi expressed his gratitude to DSSS for implementing the initiative and extended heartfelt thanks to the Italian Bishops' Conference for their generous financial support.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
Latest News
