CIRHEP: 30 Years of Impact (1994-2024)

Building Resilient Communities through Sustainability & Justice

Three decades ago, the Kadavakurichi Reserve Forest region faced a severe crisis. Mismanagement of natural resources—exacerbated by climate change, government policies, and a shift from organic to chemical-based farming—led to extreme drought. Overextraction of groundwater, unsustainable agricultural practices, and changing food habits pushed small and marginal farmers to the brink, forcing many to migrate in search of livelihoods.

In response, CIRHEP was founded in 1994 to empower rural and Indigenous communities through sustainable natural resource management, climate justice, and social development. Partnering with organizations like Future Earth, LIFE, and government agencies, CIRHEP implemented watershed projects funded by NABARD, restoring degraded landscapes and addressing critical socio-economic and health challenges.

Transformative Impact

Over the past three decades, CIRHEP’s integrated approach—bridging environmental sustainability with health, education, and social equity—has created lasting change:

Sustainable Water & Land Management – Revitalized groundwater sources, improved soil health, and promoted long-term resilience through watershed development.

Climate Justice & Indigenous Rights – Secured land rights and sustainable livelihoods for Indigenous communities, ensuring their inclusion in climate adaptation efforts.

Women’s Rights & Leadership – Formed self-help groups to enhance financial independence, decision-making power, and leadership opportunities for women.

Adolescent Health & Youth Empowerment – Provided reproductive health education, leadership training, and economic opportunities for adolescent girls and young people, equipping them for a more secure future.

Access to Healthcare & Nutrition – Strengthened maternal and adolescent health programs, improving healthcare accessibility for marginalized groups.

Biodiversity & Sustainable Agriculture – Promoted organic farming, agroforestry, and the revival of native seeds, increasing farmers’ incomes and restoring local ecosystems.

CIRHEP’s work has transformed not only landscapes but also lives—particularly those of women, youth, and Indigenous communities. By integrating climate resilience with social justice, CIRHEP continues to build a sustainable and equitable future for rural Tamil Nadu.