Communities United for Biodiversity Conservation

 Shakti Organisation, Rayagada organised Panchayat-Level Biodiversity Festivals to raise awareness among youth, women, and local leaders on biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest use. The programme witnessed active participation from over 800 community members, including elders who shared traditional ecological knowledge and Panchayat representatives who reinforced local forest governance efforts.

Through demonstrations of minor forest produce, cultural activities, and interactive discussions, participants gained a clearer understanding of the link between biodiversity, livelihoods, food security, and climate resilience.

With support from the Foundation for Ecological Security (FES), the initiative strengthened community ownership and collective responsibility toward long-term forest conservation across Ramanaguda, Gunupur, and Padampur blocks of Rayagada district.

Strengthening Climate-Resilient Livelihoods in Rayagada

With the support of Ashraya Hastha Trust, Shakti Organisation is promoting climate-resilient agriculture across 14 villages in Rayagada, working closely with small and tribal farming communities.

The initiative includes protective fencing, mulching, access to quality seeds and seedlings, capacity building, and drum-based drip irrigation systems to improve water efficiency. These interventions have helped reduce crop losses, enhance productivity, and strengthen food and nutrition security.

Over 300 farmers have adopted diversified cropping practices, including climate-resilient crops such as sweet potato. By linking farmers to government micro-irrigation schemes, the programme ensures long-term sustainability, improved incomes, and stronger rural livelihoods.

Shakti Organisation Empowering Farmers with Rabi Crops under REWARD

Shakti Organisation, Rayagada, Odisha, under the REWARD Project and with the support of PD Watershed Sambalpur, successfully implemented Rabi season agricultural activities in Jujomura Block. The initiative was designed to strengthen farmer livelihoods through crop diversification, improved productivity, and climate-resilient practices.

The programme covered 74 acres and benefited 156 farmers across eight Micro Watershed villages—Andijharana, Barlui, Hatibari, Nuamalupali, Dhadumunda, Bhadimura, Nuabangmal, and Jamloi—within the Micro Watershed area of Jujomura Block. By reaching multiple villages, the intervention ensured inclusive participation and broad-based impact at the community level.

During the Rabi season, farmers adopted a diversified cropping pattern. Onion was cultivated on 14 acres by 28 farmers, mustard on 11.5 acres by 14 farmers, green gram on 14 acres by 14 farmers, and potato on 34.5 acres by 100 farmers. This diversification helped reduce risk, improve soil health, and open up better income opportunities for participating households.

Through the REWARD Project, Shakti Organisation aims to enhance farmers’ income, promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve soil health, and encourage climate-resilient farming systems. The successful Rabi season implementation reflects a strong commitment to farmers’ welfare and long-term sustainable rural development, reinforcing the role of watershed-based approaches in building resilient agrarian communities.