Maa Gruha Maternity Home: Supporting Safe Motherhood and Child Health

 Maa Gruha Maternity Home, managed by Shakti Organisation, continues to provide essential maternal and child healthcare support to rural communities. The centre serves as a safe and supportive space for expecting and new mothers, ensuring that women receive proper care, guidance, and health awareness during pregnancy and after childbirth.

Through regular health monitoring and counselling sessions, Maa Gruha helps mothers understand the importance of nutrition, hygiene, and proper child care practices. The initiative also promotes institutional deliveries and timely health check-ups, which are important for reducing health risks for both mothers and newborns. Community outreach activities further help spread awareness about maternal health, safe motherhood practices, and child nutrition at the village level.

 

The maternity home not only provides health support but also creates a supportive environment where mothers can seek advice, share concerns, and receive guidance on childcare and personal health. This approach helps improve confidence among mothers and encourages healthier practices within families and communities.

By strengthening access to maternal and child healthcare services at the grassroots level, Maa Gruha Maternity Home is contributing to healthier families and safer motherhood. Through this initiative, Shakti Organisation continues its commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes and supporting the well-being of rural communities.

Empowering Farmers through Scientific Pointed Gourd Cultivation

Shakti Organisation successfully conducted a Training Programme on Scientific Pointed Gourd Cultivation for leading farmers at Nuamahulpali Micro Watershed (MWS), Jujomura. The initiative aimed to promote improved cultivation practices, enhance productivity, and strengthen farmers’ technical knowledge for sustainable vegetable farming.

The programme was graced by the presence of the PD Watershed, Sambalpur; ASCO Sambalpur; and Sri Manoj Kumar (I&CB – REWARD Project), reflecting strong institutional support for climate-resilient and income-oriented agriculture. The technical session was led by Shri Biswanath Sahoo, KBK Scientist, Sambalpur, who provided practical insights into scientific farming methods. Topics covered included seed selection, land preparation, nutrient management, pest and disease control, irrigation practices, and market opportunities in pointed gourd cultivation.

Farmers actively engaged in the session by raising field-level challenges and sharing their experiences. The interactive discussions enabled them to gain clarity on improved production techniques and strategies for increasing yield and income. The emphasis on scientific methods encouraged farmers to adopt systematic, knowledge-based approaches to vegetable cultivation.

The programme concluded with a strong message on the importance of modern, science-backed farming practices to enhance productivity and ensure long-term livelihood security. Through such capacity-building initiatives, Shakti Organisation continues to strengthen farmers’ skills and promote sustainable agricultural development in the region.

Strengthening Forest Governance through EHM Survey at Gulunthi Village

 As part of Shakti’s Community Forest Rights & Commons Management initiative, an EHM (Ecological Health Monitoring) survey was conducted at Gulunthi village to assess the status and health of local forest and common resources.

The survey focused on evaluating ecological conditions, documenting resource use patterns, and strengthening community-based data systems. By generating reliable field-level information, the initiative supports informed decision-making and better planning for sustainable forest governance.

Through participatory processes, community members were actively involved in understanding ecological indicators and the importance of monitoring biodiversity and resource use. This approach not only improves transparency but also enhances local capacity to manage commons effectively.

The activity reinforces community ownership, promotes evidence-based planning, and contributes to long-term conservation and livelihood security. By combining scientific assessment with community participation, Shakti Organisation continues to support resilient and sustainable management of forest and commons resources.

End Line Survey Completed in Ramanaguda Block

Shakti Organisation successfully completed the End Line Survey of the Trickle Up India Foundation Project from 3-12 February 2026 in Ramanaguda block, Rayagada. The survey saw active participation from SHG members, PRI representatives, community leaders, and frontline stakeholders.

Across 24 villages, the survey covered 96 SHGs and 207 participants, and included 5 Focus Group Discussions, 10 Key Informant Interviews, and 2 case studies. The objective was to assess the project’s impact on livelihoods, financial inclusion, community participation, and institutional strengthening, while documenting key learnings and challenges.

The process highlighted strong community ownership and collective commitment toward sustainable development and empowerment in the region.

Strengthening SHG Enterprises through Product Development Training at Rugudubaei Village

Shakti Organisation organised a Product Development Training for Self Help Groups (SHGs) at Rugudubaei village, aimed at enhancing enterprise skills and strengthening community-based livelihoods. The initiative focused on improving product quality, promoting value addition, and building the technical capacity of SHG members to expand their income-generating activities.

The training provided practical guidance on refining product standards, packaging, branding, and market-oriented approaches. By equipping women with improved skills and knowledge, the programme encouraged SHGs to move beyond basic production and adopt more competitive and sustainable enterprise models.

Participants actively engaged in discussions and hands-on learning sessions, exploring ways to increase the market value of their products while maintaining quality and consistency. The emphasis on value addition not only improves income potential but also enhances the long-term viability of SHG-led businesses.

Through such capacity-building initiatives, Shakti Organisation continues to support women’s economic empowerment and promote sustainable livelihood opportunities at the grassroots level. The training at Rugudubaei village marks another step toward strengthening local enterprises and fostering resilient community development.

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.

“A Home of Care, Dignity, and Happiness for Our Senior Citizens”

Shakti Organisation, Rayagada, Odisha, is lovingly managing two old age homes—Shakti Senior Citizen Home with 25 residents and Matrushakti Senior Citizen Home with 50 residents—to provide care, dignity, and a healthy life to poor and needy senior citizens. At present, the homes support 75 elderly persons. This initiative is supported by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.

Both homes offer a safe and peaceful shelter where elders receive nutritious meals four times a day, prepared with care for their physical and mental well-being. Regular health check-ups by qualified doctors, daily exercise, and medical support help residents stay active and healthy. The facilities include clean dining areas, comfortable bedrooms, hygienic bathrooms, indoor games, and television. Cultural programmes, annual picnic, and celebrations create happiness, emotional bonding, and social connection. Through love, respect, and dedicated service, Shakti Organisation ensures that every elder feels valued, secure, and happy

 

100 Days Initiative: Advancing the Movement for a Child Marriage - Free Rayagada

 

100 Days Initiative: Advancing the Movement for a Child Marriage - Free Rayagada

The district-level inauguration of the 100 Days Initiative - Awareness Campaign for a Child Marriage Free India was successfully held at the DRDA Conference Hall, Rayagada, marking a strong collective commitment to end child marriage in the district. The programme was attended by key officials including the Chief Development Officer (CDO-cum-EO), District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), and representatives from all line departments. Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs) from various levels and more than 50 stakeholders participated, reflecting a shared resolve to protect children’s rights.

The 100 Days Initiative aims to prevent and reduce child marriage through sustained awareness, community engagement, and effective enforcement of laws. The campaign focuses on strengthening coordination among departments, improving legal awareness, empowering frontline functionaries, and mobilising communities - especially to safeguard the rights of adolescent girls.

A key strength of the initiative lies in its integrated approach, which emphasises inter-departmental convergence, capacity building of CMPOs, community sensitisation, and engagement with schools and adolescents. Vigilance at village and block levels, combined with timely response mechanisms and regular monitoring, forms the foundation for effective implementation.

The programme was organised by the District Social Welfare Office, Rayagada, along with AVA Organization, in collaboration with Shakti Organisation, Rayagada, with strong support from the District Administration. This collective effort reinforces a united movement toward a Child Marriage Free Rayagada and contributes to the larger national vision of a Child Marriage Free Bharat.

 

“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.

SHGs Showcase Millet-Based Innovations at Sub-Division Level Krushi Jantrapati Mela, Gunupur

 

On the concluding day of the Sub-division Level Krushi Jantrapati Mela at Gunupur, Self Help Groups (SHGs) supported by Shakti Organisation played an active role by showcasing and distributing a variety of millet-based recipes through Maa Manikeswari WSHG, Ramanaguda. The initiative demonstrated the nutritional value of millets while highlighting their potential to strengthen women-led livelihoods and local agri-enterprises.

The event witnessed the presence of key public representatives and officials, including the MLA of Bissamcuttack, MLA of Gunupur, ADO Gunupur, ADO Muniguda, and agriculture department officials such as BAOs, AAOs, and VAWs from across Gunupur Subdivision. Their participation reflected strong institutional support for promoting sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices.

The mela served as an important platform for farmer interaction, knowledge sharing, and value-chain development, enabling SHGs to engage directly with farmers, officials, and stakeholders. By participating in such events, SHGs are strengthening their role in agricultural value chains while contributing to improved nutrition and sustainable rural livelihoods.