2008 Opus Prize Finalist -

2008 Opus Prize Finalist
Krishnammal Jagannathan
Land for Tillers’ Freedom (LAFTI)
 
An unfathomable tragedy was a turning point in Krishnammal Jagannathan’s life. In 1968, 44 Dalits—members of India’s lowest caste and some of its poorest residents, previously known as the “Untouchables”— were murdered at Kilavenmani village in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu. This devastating occurrence proved to be the impetus for founding Land for Tillers’ Freedom (LAFTI).

Formally founded in 1981, LAFTI allowed Jagannathan and her husband to work toward justice and land rights in Tamil Nadu, India by elevating the social status and acceptance of the Dalits through housing and farmland provisions. LAFTI is equipping the landless with land through loans and work opportunities, thereby allowing them to become self-sufficient. LAFTI’s skills workshops allow people to support themselves during the nonagricultural season through entrepreneurial efforts like mat weaving, tailoring, plumbing, carpentry, masonry, computer education and electronics.

Through LAFTI, Jagannathan has negotiated land subsidies with the government and reduced-interest bank loans to purchase land. Because of her work and LAFTI’s exceptional results, the government of India is also considering implementing LAFTI’s approach to achieve greater peaceful transfer of land throughout India.

However, LAFTI is about more than protection of land rights. It encourages empowerment and sustainable practices to benefit other oppressed communities. Hundreds have benefited from educational and outreach opportunities that promote viable wasteland development, self-employment and environmental protection.

With dignity, vision and an indefatigable spirit, Jagannathan is improving the living conditions and the future of the Dalits. LAFTI has changed the lives of 13,000 families; and those who were once powerless are now in charge of guiding their future.