“Laying the Foundation for Resilient Tribal Livelihoods in Rayagada”

Even though agriculture is the main source of income for small and marginal farmers in Rayagada, it remains vulnerable due to its strong dependence on monsoon rainfall. In our ongoing efforts to strengthen tribal livelihoods in Rayagada district, Shakti Organisation, in collaboration with Ashraya Hastha Trust, is steadily moving toward creating meaningful and tangible change for small and marginal farmers through its Vegetable and Climate Resilient Tuber Crop Farming.

Following successful farmer mobilization and capacity-building activities, Shakti Organisation is now boosting farmers’ confidence by providing essential agricultural inputs including protective fencing wire, drum-based drip irrigation systems, high-quality vegetable seeds, seedlings, and vines for climate-resilient tuber crops.

A key milestone so far has been enabling 50 farmers to access the Government’s Micro Irrigation Scheme, ensuring reliable irrigation support and laying the groundwork for stronger, more secure livelihood opportunities.

As we progress, we remain hopeful and optimistic that these interventions will help reduce crop loss, enhance soil health and moisture retention, and support more consistent year-round cultivation for the farming communities we serve.

 

“Block-Level Conclave on Forest Rights & Post-CFR Management”

Shakti Organisation, Rayagada, Odisha organised a meaningful Block-Level Conclave on the Forest Rights Act and Post-Community Forest Rights (CFR) Management on 9th December 2025 at Ramanaguda, with support from FES. The presence of the Tahasildar, Forest Department officials, civil society leaders, and people's representatives added strong value to the event.

More than 200 Community Forest Rights Management Committee (CFRMC) members from different villages participated and shared their ground-level experiences and challenges in managing community forest resources. Officials responded to their queries clearly, especially on SDLC and DLC procedures, pending joint verification of CFR claims, and other key steps under the Forest Rights Act.

The conclave focused on developing stronger and more practical Community Forest Rights Management Plans to help villages implement the Forest Rights Act smoothly and ensure sustainable forest governance.

This event strengthened community knowledge, encouraged local leadership, and inspired collective action to protect forests and common resources for future generations. It served as an important step toward empowering tribal communities and promoting fair, effective, and sustainable forest management.

Block-Level Conclave on Forest Rights & Post-CFR Management Held in Padamapur

A Block-Level Conclave on the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and Post-Community Forest Rights (CFR) Management was organised on 28th November 2025 at Padamapur by Shakti Organisation, Rayagada, with support from FES. The event brought together more than 200 members of Community Forest Rights Management Committees (CFRMCs) from across the block.

Senior officials—including the BDO, Tahasildar, WEO, and Forest Department representatives—joined the conclave, offering guidance and addressing key community questions related to SDLC & DLC processes, CFR claim verification, and post-rights implementation.

The discussions focused on strengthening CFR Management Plans, improving village-level implementation, and building stronger community-led forest governance systems. Participants shared on-ground challenges and gained clarity on procedures, responsibilities, and sustainable forest management practices.

The event served as an important platform to enhance community understanding, boost local leadership, and encourage collective action to protect forests and commons. With renewed confidence and collaboration, the conclave marked a meaningful step toward strengthening community forest rights and long-term conservation efforts. 

 

Cluster-Level Orientation on Community Forest Rights Management & Interaction with Community Forest Resource Management Committee (CFRMC) members for Strengthening Community Leadership in Forest Governance

 Shakti Organisation, Rayagada–Odisha, with the support of the Foundation for Ecological Security (FES), successfully organised a one-day Cluster-Level Orientation on Community Forest Rights (CFR) management. The programme brought together Community Forest Resource Management Committee (CFRMC) members from Ramanaguda, Gunupur, and Padampur blocks, offering a shared platform to learn, discuss, and strengthen their role in sustainable forest governance.

This orientation is part of the ongoing CFR & Commons Management Project, a long-term effort that has already trained 2,220 CFRMC members across multiple blocks. The project aims to empower communities with knowledge, tools, and collective strength to manage forest and non-forest commons effectively. Forests are central to tribal livelihoods in Rayagada, and this initiative helps villagers become informed custodians of these critical resources.

Purpose of the Orientation

The one-day session was designed to address gaps in understanding and to equip CFRMC members with practical skills. Many villages have received CFR titles, but challenges often arise in organising committees, preparing management plans, and ensuring sustainable use. This orientation responded directly to those needs by emphasizing clarity, practice, and collective decision-making.

Step-by-Step Learning Process

The orientation followed a structured, simple three-step process so participants could easily understand and apply the concepts in their daily forest management activities.

 

Step 1: Understanding CFR Provisions

The session began with an explanation of Community Forest Rights as provided under the Forest Rights Act (FRA). Facilitators discussed:

·         the meaning of CFR titles,

·         the rights communities hold over forest resources,

·         the responsibilities involved in sustainable harvesting, and

·         the importance of protecting biodiversity.

Participants learned how CFR empowers communities to manage, conserve, and use forest resources according to traditional practices. Discussions also included the challenges caused by forest degradation and how empowered, legally informed communities can help reverse this trend.

Step 2: Roles and Responsibilities of CFRMCs

The next part of the session focused on the functioning of Community Forest Resource Management Committees. Trainers explained how CFRMCs are formed, how records and resolutions should be maintained, and how committees can prepare village-level forest management and conservation plans.

Practical examples were shared from other villages, helping participants understand:

·         how to monitor forest use,

·         how to prevent illegal felling or excessive extraction,

·         how to organise regular committee meetings, and

·         how to ensure transparency and accountability in decision-making.

This step helped participants recognise that good governance at the village level can significantly strengthen long-term forest health.

Step 3: Strengthening Collective Action

The final step highlighted the power of collective action. Participants discussed working together across villages, forming cluster-level networks, sharing experiences, and supporting each other in managing forest and non-forest commons. Team-based approaches ensure fair benefit-sharing, reduce conflicts, and build stronger resilience to climate and livelihood challenges.

The session emphasised that sustainable forest management is not the responsibility of one committee alone—it requires cooperation from every household and coordination between neighbouring villages.

Outcome of the Orientation

The active participation and thoughtful discussions throughout the day reflected growing confidence and leadership among community members. Many participants expressed renewed motivation to protect their forests, develop village-level plans, and involve youth and women in CFRMC activities.

By strengthening local knowledge and collective action, the orientation marks another important step in ensuring long-term ecological sustainability and improved livelihoods. Shakti Organisation and FES remain committed to supporting communities as they work to protect their forests and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

 

Proud Moment for Shakti Organisation!

Shakti Organisation, Rayagada,Odisha  working dedicatedly for the last three decades for the development of rural, poor, and marginalised communities in Southern Odisha, is proud to have secured 1st Position in the Photo of the Month Campaign 2025, organised by Dhwani Foundation and 1forNGO. This recognition highlights not only a powerful photograph but the depth of Shakti’s long-term community engagement, field presence, and commitment to social change.

The Photo of the Month Campaign is a national initiative aimed at digitally empowering grassroots NGOs and strengthening their visibility. With 24 inspiring NGOs participating, the competition evaluated entries on creativity, impact, relevance, field engagement, and digital presentation. Shakti Organisation stood out for its ability to capture real community emotions and the transformative journey of rural families.

For over 30 years, Shakti has been working systematically through community mobilisation, leadership development, livelihood promotion, women empowerment, Community Forest Rights, youth development, and natural resource management. Our step-by-step approach—starting from trust building to capacity development, institution strengthening, and digital documentation—has created sustainable change across Southern Odisha.

This award is a tribute to our staff, community leaders, partners, and supporters who continue to inspire our mission. We extend heartfelt thanks to Dhwani Foundation and 1forNGO for creating a platform that celebrates grassroots stories and encourages digital excellence.

Shakti Organisation remains committed to strengthening community voices and advancing inclusive development in the years ahead.

 

“Millet day 2025 the Spirit of Millets and Women Empowerment”

 

Shakti Organisation, under the Shree Anna Abhiyan, proudly joined the District Level Millet Day Celebration organized by the District Agriculture Office, Rayagada, on 7th November 2025. The event became a symbol of empowerment, resilience, and sustainable farming.

Amidst the inspiring gathering of farmers, volunteers, implementing partners, and dignitaries, Smt. Rina Aprika from Ramanaguda Block was honored as the Best Women Progressive Farmer, receiving her award from the MP representative. Adding to the pride, BLF Ramanaguda was recognized as the Best Federation by the CDAO, Rayagada.

This celebration stands as a powerful reminder that women farmers are not just cultivators of crops—but nurturers of change. Together, we grow not just food, but a future rooted in sustainability, unity, and self-reliance.

#ShaktiOrganisation #ShreeAnnaAbhiyan #MilletDay #WomenEmpowerment #SustainableFarming #Rayagada #CDAO #TribalLivelihoods #FoodSecurity

Block Level two days Training Program on Using of E-Marketing and Social Media for Smart Sakhi’s and Community Leaders

Block Level two days Training Program on Using of E-Marketing and Social Media for Smart Sakhi’s and Community Leaders

 

Shakti Organisation, in collaboration with TrickleUp, successfully organized a block-level two-day’s training program was held on 4th to 5th September 2025 on Business Promotion through using of E-Marketing and Social Media at SRDTC, Ramanaguda.This initiative aimed to equip 20 Smart Sakhis and 5 Community Leaders with essential digital tools to strengthen entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods at the grassroots level SHG members

The whole sessions were facilitated by Mr. Rashmiranjan Sahu, E-Commerce Experts with the presence of Mrs. Utpaline Jena -Program officer from the Trickle up Foundation, in the company of active support from Shakti’s project staff of Ramanaguda. A per the training agenda, the participants were introduced to four key elements of digital tools, each designed to enhance their ability to operate in an increasingly digital ecosystem and directly benefit Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and their members.

1. Digital Payment Systems

Participants were trained in the use of secure and accessible digital payment platforms such as UPI, PhonePe, and Google Pay, through this tools SHG members can Enables cashless transactions, reduces dependency on middlemen, improves financial transparency, and empowers SHG members to handle their own finances confidently.

2. Social Media Platforms

The session highlighted how platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram can be used for brand building, customer engagement, and story telling.through this tools SHG members can Assists in marketing local products, reaching wider audiences, building brand identity, and networking with buyers, thereby increasing visibility and sales opportunities.

3. E-Commerce Platforms

Participants explored how small rural businesses can scale through platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and local marketplaces. Topics included product listing, pricing, digital catalogs, and order management. Through these tools SHG members can Opens up new markets beyond the local area, increases income potential, and provides an opportunity for rural women entrepreneurs to run online businesses effectively.

4. Other Digital Tools

This included exposure to tools like Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Gmail), digital photography, and mobile stock management apps. Through these tools SHG members can enhances record-keeping, improves communication, boosts product presentation,

 and helps in professionalizing operations, making SHG enterprises more organized and efficient.

This capacity-building initiative empowered grassroots leaders with essential digital skills that align with the broader objectives of women’s economic empowerment and community-led development. The training received enthusiastic participation and positive feedback, laying a strong foundation for future digital transformation efforts in the cluster.

As a whole the training will help SHG members improve their income, expand their market reach, and manage their enterprises more efficiently using digital tools. in fact this initiative marks a significant step toward digital inclusion and economic empowerment for rural women entrepreneurs. 

EMPOWERING WOMEN, STRENGTHENING FAMILIES

 

Shakti Organisation, through its committed Maternity Waiting Home (MWH) team in Kashipur Block, Rayagada, is proud to support the ongoing Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyan (SNSPA) from 17 September to 2 October 2025. The campaign aims to improve women’s health and nutrition through early disease screening, maternal care, and community awareness.

In Kashipur block, Shakti’s MWH team is playing a critical coordination and implementation role, working alongside government health officials, ASHAs, and Anganwadi workers. They are mobilizing women from remote villages for screening camps, conducting awareness sessions, and ensuring timely referrals

More than just a health facility, the MWH under Shakti Organisation has become a trusted platform for health education, community empowerment, and access to life-saving services for underserved women in tribal regions.

This campaign is not just about health — it’s about equity, inclusion, and dignity for every woman. Shakti Organisation is honored to support this mission in volunteer partnership with the Government of Odisha.

Greening Lives Through Millets

 

Shakti Organisation is proudly leading the Sree Anna Abhiyan in the picturesque landscapes of Ramanaguda Block, Rayagada district, Odisha, marking another milestone in its decades-long commitment to empowering tribal farmers. This transformative initiative promotes the System of Millets Intensification (SMI), encouraging the adoption of sustainable, climate-resilient, and nutrition-focused agricultural practices. Covering 10 Gram Panchayats, 145 villages, and engaging 1,820 farmers across 600 hectares, the project is creating a lasting impact on both livelihoods and the environment.

Across the project area, farmers are actively involved in preparing their lands, removing weeds, and nurturing their crops with organic methods as per SMI guidelines. The once-dry fields now flourish with lush green millet plants, symbolizing renewal, resilience, and the spirit of collective growth.

Beyond boosting crop productivity, millet cultivation has evolved into a powerful movement for food security, nutritional well-being, and economic empowerment among the tribal communities of Rayagada. By blending traditional wisdom with modern techniques, Shakti Organisation continues to lead the way in restoring ecological balance and promoting self-reliant rural livelihoods — truly greening lives through millets.

Community Mental Health Program (CMHP) 2025 Launched in Rayagada & Kashipur

Shakti Organisation, in collaboration with The Live Love Laugh Foundation, has launched the Community Mental Health Program (CMHP) 2025 in Rayagada and Kashipur blocks of Odisha. The initiative focuses on improving access to mental health services and reducing stigma in rural and tribal areas where access to professional support is limited.

The program focuses on building a community-based mental health support system, where early intervention, awareness, and consistent care are central.

What the Program Offers

• Mental Health OPDs: Regular outpatient services are being conducted to offer clinical support, diagnosis, and treatment for common mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and trauma-related issues.

• Follow-up Support: Many people drop out of mental health care due to distance, cost, or social pressure. This program ensures consistent follow-ups, so no one is left behind once treatment begins.

• Community Champion Training: Over 100 local volunteers and workers are being trained to identify early signs of distress, offer first-line emotional support, and connect individuals to care. This is critical in areas with limited professional services.

• Street Plays & Awareness Campaigns: With over 48 street plays and campaigns planned, mental health messages are being delivered in local languages using relatable, everyday stories. This method helps break myths and normalizes seeking help.

• Home Visits & Open Talks: Trained teams conduct door-to-door visits, offering quiet, non-judgmental support in spaces where people feel most safe—inside their homes.

• Advocacy & Rights: Beyond care, the program promotes awareness of mental health as a basic human right. This includes the right to dignity, inclusion, and non-discrimination.

Why It’s Important

According to the National Mental Health Survey of India (2015-16), nearly 1 in 7 Indians experience mental health issues, but treatment gaps—especially in rural India—exceed 70–80%. Stigma, lack of awareness, and poor accessibility are major barriers.

Rayagada and Kashipur, being tribal-dominated and geographically remote, face higher risks due to poverty, displacement, and limited health infrastructure. CMHP 2025 addresses this gap by bringing services to the community itself.

This initiative sets a replicable model for rural mental health care, where awareness, accessibility, and empathy go hand-in-hand. Programs like CMHP 2025 are key to making mental wellness a priority— not just in urban centers, but at the grassroots.

Celebrating International Yoga Day with Shakti & Matrushakti Senior Citizens Home 🧘‍♀️✨

Every year, International Yoga Day becomes a beautiful reminder to reconnect — with our breath, our body, and our community. And for us, that reconnection finds its most soulful expression at Shakti & Matrushakti Senior Citizens Home, where this celebration has become a heartwarming tradition.

For years now, this space has opened its doors (and hearts) to Yoga Day — turning it into more than just a wellness event. It’s a ritual of love, healing, and shared energy between generations.

From the moment you walk in, there's a quiet kind of magic. The elders at Shakti & Matrushakti radiate wisdom, warmth, and grace that only comes with lived experience. Their presence grounds you. Their stories elevate you.

Why This Celebration Hits Different Every Time:

• Timeless energy: These aren’t just yoga sessions; they’re soulful exchanges. A blend of tradition and newness, where each breath carries a story.

• Community bonding: Young hearts and wise souls flowing together in asanas — bridging age with empathy.

• A culture of care: Thanks to Shakti Organisation, this isn't just a senior home — it's a sanctuary where every individual is seen, heard, and celebrated.

Big love to DLSA Rayagada for consistently showing up and being part of this tradition. Their presence amplifies the community spirit we all strive for. 💫

Every year, we leave a little more grounded, a little more inspired — reminded that yoga isn’t just about the body; it’s about presence, connection, and love across lifelines.

Here's to many more years of this meaningful tradition. 🌿
Until then — stay rooted, breathe deep, and let the wisdom flow.

Promoting Eco-Friendly Pulse Farming in Koraput, Odisha

Shakti Organisation is facilitating the implementation of the NFSM-TRFA Pulses scheme across all 14 blocks of Koraput District. The initiative aims to promote pulses cultivation in rice fallow lands, helping farmers utilize underused farmland while adopting eco-friendly and climate-smart practices.

As part of the program, pheromone traps were distributed to help farmers monitor and control pest populations without relying on chemical pesticides. This simple yet effective tool supports safer pest management and contributes to protecting soil and environmental health.

In addition, a distribution-cum-demonstration of solar light traps was conducted during the harvesting stage of lentil crops, in the presence of the Agricultural Officer (AO). These solar traps are a sustainable solution that attract and control pests during nighttime, reducing crop damage and pesticide usage.

By introducing these low-cost, environment-friendly technologies, the initiative supports farmers in improving yields, income, and resilience to climate change. Shakti Organisation continues to champion sustainable agriculture and rural empowerment through on-ground action and collaboration.

Material Distribution under Pre-Nutrition and Education Program

Shakti Organisation believes that every child deserves not just access to education and nutrition, but also the basic necessities that ensure their well-being and dignity. As part of its commitment to holistic child development, Shakti Organisation is facilitating the Pre-Nutrition and Education Program with support from the Jiv Daya Foundation.

This initiative reached out to children in the Ramanaguda Block of Rayagada District, Odisha, providing them with essential items to help them feel safe, warm, and confident as they grow and learn.

Distributed items included:

• 🧥 120 winter jackets

• 👟 120 pairs of shoes

• 🧦 240 pairs of socks

• 👕 120 T-shirts

• 👖 120 track pants

These aren’t just clothes—they are tools of empowerment. For many children, receiving something as simple as a warm jacket or a pair of shoes can mean a more comfortable journey to school, better health, and a boost in self-esteem.

This effort is part of a larger movement to bridge the gap between opportunity and access in underserved communities. With the generous support of the Jiv Daya Foundation, our program ensures that the children we serve are not held back by circumstances, but rather supported to step forward into a brighter future.

Shakti Organisation remains dedicated to fostering environments where every child feels safe, supported, and valued. Through thoughtful interventions and collaborative efforts, the organisation continues to create meaningful change—one small act at a time.

Together, let’s continue creating lasting change through small, meaningful actions. 💫

Shakti Organisation’s Poultry Initiative

Poultry for Economic Growth & Strengthening SHGs: Building Sustainable Livelihoods Through Community Empowerment

To boost rural self-sufficiency, Shakti Organisation, under the Mpowered Project, supported Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through poultry farming. 230 chicks were distributed to 23 SHGs, with each group receiving 10 chicks and hands-on poultry training. This initiative promotes income generation and nutrition security, helping families become self-reliant.Recognizing the role of SHGs in financial inclusion & entrepreneurship, Shakti provided guidance on market linkages, supply chain management, and business growth. This enables SHGs to scale their poultry ventures sustainably.

Impact & Future Growth

Through this initiative, SHG members are achieving: 

• Financial independence
• Better nutrition & livelihoods
• Entrepreneurial confidence

By fostering self-reliance & market access, Shakti Organisation is driving long-term grassroots empowerment.