In the remote tribal village of Birinchibari in the Basanti block of Sundarbans, West Bengal, the daily struggle for livelihood shapes every decision. While men migrate for work, women take on multiple roles—including fishing in the rivers, even during menstruation.
With constant exposure to saltwater, irregular meals, and physically demanding work, women’s health is often at risk. Malnutrition affects not just them, but also their children.
During Break the Silence meetings conducted by Goonj’s West Bengal team, these concerns came to light. But instead of just acknowledging the challenge, the women decided to take action—to build a kitchen garden, ensuring access to fresh, nutritious food for their families.
Meeting
A Community-Led Kitchen Garden for Nutrition & Resilience
With local families working together, land was identified, prepared, and cultivated.
- Fresh vegetables are now available right in their village, adding vital nutrition to daily meals.
- More than food security, this initiative reinforced the power of collective action—ensuring that no woman has to compromise her well-being due to lack of access to nutrition.
“This kitchen garden means more than food—it means strength, health, and the ability to take care of our families without depending on outside sources,” shared a participant.
As a part of Goonj’s Not Just a Piece of Cloth (NJPC) initiative, participants were rewarded with menstrual health kits, further empowering their well-being.
Collective action for sustainable nutrition
Grassroots-Led Solutions for Health & Dignity
The Birinchibari kitchen garden is a testament to the strength of women-led community initiatives. When people take charge of their challenges, solutions emerge that are practical, sustainable, and deeply rooted in dignity.
Women-led kitchen garden in Sundarbans
Be part of this movement
For over two decades, Goonj has facilitated thousands of such conversations, sparking action-led solutions where communities take charge of their own challenges. Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
