From the Field

Amid the serene hills of Kodaikanal, Rev. Fr. Joseph Gunalan spent time in conversation with local farmers, listening to their experiences, concerns, and aspirations.

The gathering brought together farmers from the hill communities in a warm and informal setting. The interaction provided an opportunity to hear directly from those whose lives and livelihoods are closely connected to the land. Their stories reflect the dedication, resilience, and challenges faced by farming families living in the Kodaikanal hills.

Rev. Fr. Joseph Gunalan encouraged an open dialogue, giving the farmers space to share their thoughts and discuss issues affecting their communities. The meeting highlighted the importance of listening to rural voices and walking alongside farming communities, particularly those working in challenging hill environments.

For the farmers, such interactions are more than a meeting — they are an opportunity to be heard, to share their realities, and to explore possibilities for strengthening their communities.

“The gathering in Kodaikanal reflects a simple but powerful message: meaningful change begins when we listen, understand, and stand together with the people who sustain our communities.”

Rev. Fr. Joseph Gunalan met with farmers, FPOs and local NGOs in Kodaikanal to understand the many challenges faced by farming communities. Despite their hard work, rising input costs, unpredictable weather, lack of proper storage and transportation, low market prices, and dependence on middlemen leave farmers with very little income.

Since vegetables like carrots, potatoes and other produce are highly perishable, farmers are often forced to sell quickly at low prices, while much of the profit goes to intermediaries. The meeting focused on finding sustainable solutions to reduce losses, improve market access, increase farmers' income and ultimately enhance their standard of living.

Under the warm morning sun, the golden millet crop stood tall across the field, reflecting the hard work and dedication of the farming community. Amidst the thriving crop, Future Trust field staff met with farmers to understand their experiences, challenges, and aspirations.

The visit was more than just a routine field meeting. It was an opportunity to stand alongside farmers — to observe their crops, listen to their concerns, and share knowledge on sustainable farming practices. The farmers proudly explained their cultivation methods and showed the progress of their harvest.

For Future Trust, such field-level interactions are at the heart of its work. By meeting farmers where they work every day, the team can better understand their needs and support them with practical guidance, improved agricultural practices, and opportunities to strengthen their livelihoods.

The flourishing millet field is a symbol of what can be achieved when farmers' traditional knowledge, hard work, and timely guidance come together. This visit reflects Future Trust's continued commitment to empowering farming communities, promoting sustainable agriculture, and building resilient livelihoods for a better future.

“Real change begins in the field — by listening to farmers, learning together, and growing together.”

In Dindigul District, a meaningful gathering unfolded as Rev. Fr. Joseph Gunalan and his team met with street vendors to listen to their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. In the warm and welcoming atmosphere, the vendors shared the struggles they face in sustaining their livelihoods and supporting their families.

The meeting became a space of hope and solidarity, where open conversations focused on strengthening their economic opportunities, improving working conditions, and exploring ways to build more secure and dignified livelihoods. Through this dialogue, Rev. Fr. Joseph Gunalan and his team reaffirmed their commitment to walking alongside the street vendors and supporting them toward a more sustainable and empowered future.

In the heart of the countryside, a farmer stands proudly in his field, holding the fresh vegetables nurtured by his own hands. Behind him are green fields, coconut trees, mountains and wind turbines — a beautiful picture of nature, hard work and hope. What looks like a simple harvest carries a much bigger story: the story of farmers who work every day to put nutritious food on our tables.

Future Trust believes that supporting vulnerable communities begins with strengthening dignity and livelihoods. When we value the farmer, we value the food system. When we support sustainable farming, we help build healthier and more resilient communities.

From farm fresh vegetables to families in need, every harvest can become an opportunity to share, nourish and empower.

• 🌾 Support the farmer.
• 🥬 Share fresh, nutritious food.
• 🤝 Stand with vulnerable communities.
• 💚 Build a stronger future together.

“Every vegetable grown with care can nourish a family. Every act of support can change a life.”