Dr. Gyanendra Mani Visits Maina Laranga Lodhena Watershed Project, Inaugurates Livelihood Initiatives

On September 8, 2025, Dr. Gyanendra Mani, Chief General Manager of NABARD Chhattisgarh, visited the Maina Laranga Lodhena Watershed Project to review its progress and ongoing initiatives. During his visit, he explored a range of structures developed under the project, including farm ponds, loose boulder structures, and SGPs. He also observed advanced agricultural practices being implemented by the local community, such as the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method, which has been introduced to improve crop productivity and promote sustainable farming.

As part of efforts to strengthen local livelihoods, Dr. Mani inaugurated a grocery shop and a puffed rice mill that were set up for a self-help group. These initiatives aim to create income-generating opportunities for villagers and enhance the economic resilience of the community.

The visit was attended by Shri Miliyor Bada, NABARD District Development Manager, and Shri Soham Choudhury, Assistant Manager from NABARD Regional Office. Members of the Village Watershed Committee were also present, interacting with the officials and sharing their experiences of how the project has been impacting their lives. Dr. Mani appreciated the collective efforts of the community and encouraged them to continue working together to make the watershed project a model of sustainable rural development.