Sabuj Sangha believes that there is no simple solution to poverty. In order to overcome poverty, it is necessary to address the range of issues that poor people face on a daily basis. For this reason, Sabuj Sangha adopts an Integrated Sustainable Development Model. It works in five main operational areas:

• Health and Nutrition
• Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
• Education and Protection
• Livelihood and Women’s Empowerment
• Environment and Disaster Response

By tackling all of the issues, Sabuj Sangha seeks to improve the quality of life for some of the most vulnerable people in the world. An example of this approach is the Model Village Programme.

Model Village Programme: An Integrated Approach

The Model Village Programme in the Sundarban Delta (MVSD) is a unique effort aimed at enabling local communities to make significant improvements in their lives. Building on organisational experience, the programme facilitates comprehensive development of deprived communities. It address multiple issues and needs in health and nutrition, water, hygiene and sanitation, education and protection, livelihood and women’s empowerment and environment and disaster response. The programme has been implemented in 24 villages across Mathurapur II and Pathar Pratima Blocks in South 24 Parganas.

In its initial phase, 2003-2006, this GOAL Ireland supported programme focussed on infrastructural needs. A comprehensive integrated framework with output and outcomes linked to multiple sectors emerged in 2006. A greater emphasis was placed on working with communities and other key stakeholders.

The second phase of the programme is due to complete in 2011. The interventions have had a significant impact at various levels. There has been a growing understanding of the connections between n various sectors and the need for integrated development. It is clear that a holistic development in the Sundarbans is not possible without first addressing the complex and interrelated issues that shapes the lives of people living in the region. Sabuj Sangha intends to utilise these learning’s throughout the remainder of the project and beyond.