Sustainable Agriculture Project
Bhoomi Sustainable Development Society (BSDS) initiated the Sustainable Agriculture Project in the Belavadi cluster of Chikmagalur district, supported by funding from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). This project has made a significant impact, benefiting over 2000 families across 13 villages in the region.
Key Features of the Sustainable Agriculture Project
Objective: The primary objective of the project was to enhance the productivity of key crops and activities by promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Focus crops included coconut, finger millet, maize, and horse gram, chosen for their significance in the local agricultural landscape.
Community Impact: By implementing sustainable agriculture practices, the project positively impacted the livelihoods of rural families, enhancing their agricultural productivity and income generation opportunities. The project’s interventions reached a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, encompassing diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
Technical Support: BSDS provided comprehensive technical support to farmers, including access to quality seeds, agricultural inputs, and knowledge resources. This support aimed to empower farmers with the necessary tools and information to optimize their agricultural practices effectively.
Establishment of Farmer Producer Organization (FPO): As part of the project’s sustainability strategy, BSDS facilitated the establishment of a robust Farmer Producer Organization (FPO). The FPO served as a platform for collective action, enabling farmers to pool resources, access markets, and negotiate better prices for their agricultural produce.
Post-Project Sustainability: Recognizing the importance of continuity beyond the project period, BSDS ensured that the FPO was equipped to continue its operations independently. This included capacity building, market linkages, and institutional strengthening to enable the FPO to thrive beyond the project’s duration.
Market Linkages: BSDS facilitated market linkages for agricultural products, ensuring that farmers had access to viable markets for their produce. This strategic approach aimed to enhance the economic viability of sustainable agriculture practices and promote income diversification among farming communities.
Long-term Impact: The Sustainable Agriculture Project aimed not only to achieve immediate improvements in agricultural productivity but also to foster long-term sustainability and resilience within rural communities. By promoting sustainable practices and empowering farmers, the project laid the foundation for enduring positive change in the agricultural sector.
Through the Sustainable Agriculture Project, BSDS demonstrated its commitment to promoting environmentally sound and socially inclusive agricultural practices, driving holistic development and prosperity in rural areas.