Increasing Salinity is Putting Marginal Minority Coastal Community in a Vicious Cycle of Debt

Critically Acclaimed Reports

DW Akademie’s Great Rivers of the Indo-Pacific - Lifelines and Sources of Conflict Award- 2021

This investigative report delves into the struggles of the ethnically migrated Munda community during pregnancy, shedding light on how increasing salinity levels exacerbate their financial burden during childbirth. Salinity often leads to edema, a condition where the body retains excess water to counter saline effects, resulting in elevated blood pressure and a heightened risk of premature childbirth. Consequently, the associated expenses can be up to ten times higher than those of a natural birth. The Mundas, originally from Rachi, Jharghand—an infertile region of India—were brought to the coastal areas of Bangladesh during the British colonial era. Despite their efforts to improve their socioeconomic status, the Mundas face significant challenges due to their low-caste status and lack of access to education, employment, and essential resources. Now, they must confront the additional obstacle of salinity as they strive to improve their circumstances.

Parenting in a Pandemic

Thomson Foundation Mobile Journalism Competition Top Finalist- 2020


During the coronavirus pandemic, when many people were feeling overwhelmed by negativity, these parents discovered a way to empower their children and foster resilience. This heartwarming tale offers a solution-oriented approach to provide comfort during these challenging times.

Additionally, this story served as an experiment to gauge social media responses to a positively framed narrative. In the Thomson Foundation Mobile Competition, a global contest, this story earned a spot among the top five finalists.


The countries most affected by climate change are often impoverished, where women have limited access to education and job opportunities. They are often relegated to household duties, but when climate-related disasters strike, women are compelled to seek employment.

With limited opportunities, women are forced into challenging jobs due to their circumstances. This investigation delves into the experiences of climate migrant women, who find themselves in various difficult workplaces, including brothels. This investigative project received a grant from the German Federal Foreign Office. The entire story was captured and edited using a mobile phone.

Women Navigating Risky Profession Amidst Climate Change Challenges

DW Akademie’s Eco Frontlines Grant Winner-2021