Change-making foundation that focuses on sustainability and empowerment.
Kuddle Life Foundation was started in 2020, a year that will go down in history. The founders of Kuddle Life Foundation, or KLF as it is referred to by the team, are like-minded individuals that have spent their lives in Pondicherry. They have seen the land and seascape change over the years and though Pondicherry is one India’s premier tourist destinations, this may not have been the best outcome for its local communities.
Where wildlife and habitat protection meet
community development
The founding members have long wanted to give back to the community and it was this desire that drove the inception of Kuddle Life Foundation. A mixed bag of backgrounds and personalities came together for one common goal, to help the marine environment and improve conditions for the fishing villages and their communities.
50 fishing villages, one common problem.
The Union Territory of Puducherry has 50 fishing villages along its coast; seafood is a very intricate part of the diets of the locals and a major driving force for the tourism industry. This is true of most coastal regions, but what makes Puducherry different is the small area of coastline along which these 50 villages juxtapose with dozens of villages from neighbouring Tamil Nadu, creating an intense demand for marine resources. In recent years, the artisanal fishermen’s struggles have increased, and this is where we are looking to make a difference.
Reef with a purpose.
Our pilot project is to design, deploy and monitor Artificial Reefs for all the fishing villages. We have chosen this program based on multiple conversations with the fishing communities and research data collected on similar projects in India and across the globe. We are using this opportunity to start a larger dialogue with the fishing villages on community development, education, alternate livelihood options, sanitation and potential policy changes that will make a difference to the next generations of Puducherry’s fishing communities.
Mission, vision & values
Our Mission: “To enhance coastal livelihoods, safeguard marine biodiversity, and promote eco-friendly policies, ensuring oceanic health for future generations.”
Our Vision: “To foster a future where flourishing oceans and sustainable coastal communities coexist in balanced harmony.”
Our Values: “We are committed to sustainability, community empowerment, and unwavering integrity in our quest for marine conservation and coastal progress.”