By Fr Bento D’Souza & Ms Ankita for BIS Mumbai

Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK) facilitated a field visit for the Local Ecology Coordinators of the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco, INB Province on September 19, providing an opportunity for learning, reflection and practical engagement around ecological care and sustainable agriculture.

The programme began with a brief orientation to BGVK’s sustainable development initiatives, facilitated by Fr George, Director, BGVK. He introduced the participants to BGVK’s work in areas such as sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, watershed development and rural livelihoods, helping the participants understand how ecological sustainability is integrated into BGVK’s broader approach to community development.

This was followed by a “Care for Creation” session facilitated by Ms Ankita, which explored the connection between climate change, everyday choices and sustainable living. The session encouraged participants to reflect on the environmental challenges being experienced by communities and on the role individuals, institutions and schools can play in responding to them. The discussion moved from understanding climate change to identifying practical areas where ecological responsibility can be incorporated into everyday life and institutional practices.

The participants then engaged in a session on sustainable agriculture practices facilitated by Mr. Ransingh. The session focused on practical and locally relevant approaches that can support soil health, reduce dependence on chemical inputs and promote more sustainable farming practices.

A key component of the field visit was a practical demonstration of vermicomposting. Participants learned how organic waste can be converted into nutrient-rich compost using earthworms. The demonstration highlighted the potential of biodegradable waste to become a useful agricultural resource while contributing to better waste management and soil health.

The participants also observed a demonstration on the preparation of Jeevamrut, a natural agricultural input used in sustainable farming. The practical session introduced the preparation process and its potential application in agricultural practices.

The field visit created space for interaction, questions and exchange of experiences among the Local Ecology Coordinators. The combination of orientation, reflection and hands-on learning enabled participants to connect ecological concepts with practices that can be adapted within their own institutions, schools and communities.

The visit reinforced the importance of moving from awareness to practice. By experiencing sustainable approaches firsthand, the participants were encouraged to explore how ecological care can become part of their ongoing community engagement and educational initiatives.

The programme concluded with a shared reflection on the role of local action in promoting care for creation, sustainable livelihoods and resilient communities. Through this learning exchange, BGVK provided a practical platform for strengthening ecological leadership and encouraging the Local Ecology Coordinators to carry forward the learning within their respective communities.