Field Update

These are challenging and unprecedented times.  Our love and prayers are with all of you.  We hope you and your loved ones are staying safe and healthy. We wanted to provide an update on the situation here in Wayanad, India.  There’s been a strict national lock-down since March 24th that has been extended until the end of May.  The Kerala state health authorities have been handling the situation precisely, efficiently, and proactively.  The number of

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Community Member Spotlight: Sheeba Valady

Like many women in Wayanad, Sheeba Valady seems like a person who can truly do it all.  Her seemingly endless capacity to be a skilled farmer, a strong leader, and exemplary mother is awe-inspiring. A visit to Sheeba Valady’s house allows any visitor to instantly witness her compelling personality and range of talents.  With a wide smile, she greets visitors with a bright enthusiasm.  In a swift manner, like that of a magician, Sheeba’s signature

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Self Help Groups – Inspiring Social Change

The Kerala region is renowned for its progressive and forward-thinking societal standards. One of the biggest initiatives to promote gender equality in India is the creation of self help groups (SHGs). SHGs have become an important tool in promoting women’s empowerment. Profugo has taken advantage of the opportunity and has been working on the possibility of creating SHGs within our community. The tailoring program and the Profugo Market are female-focused, which provides the chance to

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Functional Farming: Integrated Agricultural Systems

Integrated Agricultural Systems are a sustainable practice that has economic, environmental, and social benefits. This farming technique is a “whole system” approach that utilizes existing biological relationships (Agriculture Sustainability Institute). It builds upon the concept of agroecology, which is the application of ecological principles to agricultural systems and practices.” (Oxford Dictionary) The goal of integrated agricultural systems is to minimize the amount of impact the agricultural process has on the environment while maximizing production yield.

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Joys and Growth: Reflections from the First Five Months in the Field

On a Saturday afternoon in January, I found myself on the balcony of the Prasanthi Cottage, my current home.  I took in my surroundings – the lush hills, the distant moos of cows, the airy dance of floating clouds.  I sat, alone, with a wide smile on my face. This scene may seem like a cliched description of someone who claims to be “at peace,” or maybe that of someone who is a bit eccentric. 

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