Project Overview:
The Tribal Development Fund (TDF) project named TDF Manora/Jashpur, initiated by the Rural Education And Development Society (READS) with the support of NABARD, aimed to uplift marginalized communities in the Jashpur district. The project focused on revitalizing barren lands through agroforestry and sustainable agricultural practices.
Interventions Implemented:
1. Agroforestry: One-acre areas were designated for WADI plantation, involving the cultivation of fruit-bearing trees like mango, guava, and apple berry. The project also facilitated the setup of irrigation pumps to ensure adequate water supply for the plantations.
2. Crop Diversification: In addition to fruit trees, farmers received seeds for cultivating crops like ginger, turmeric, tomatoes, chilies, bottle gourds, cucumbers, and eggplants.
Success Stories:
1. Sipriyanush Xolxo - Cultivating Hope and Healing:
- Pre-Project Status: Sipriyanush, a resident of Karadana village, struggled with barren land and family illnesses.
- Intervention: Engaged in WADI plantation and received ginger and turmeric seeds.
- Post-Project Outcome: Cultivated intercrops like tomatoes, chilies, bottle gourds, cucumbers, and eggplants, yielding Rs. 48,500 income. Additionally, ginger and turmeric production exceeded 200 kg each.
- Impact: The surplus income enabled Sipriyanush to provide medical treatment for his disabled siblings, bringing hope and healing to his family.
2. Guthlu Ram - Cultivating Prosperity:
- Pre-Project Status: Guthlu Ram from Karadana faced challenges due to barren land.
- Intervention: Implemented WADI plantation and received ginger and turmeric seeds.
- Post-Project Outcome: Cultivated chili on 70 decimal land, earning Rs. 65,000 income. Ginger and turmeric production exceeded 200 kg each.
- Impact: Utilized the income to improve living conditions and prepare for subsequent pea cultivation.
3. Binoth Panna - Transforming Barren Lands:
- Pre-Project Status: Binoth Panna from Chhatori had barren land.
- Intervention: Undertook WADI plantation and received ginger and turmeric seeds.
- Post-Project Outcome: Earned Rs. 38,000 from intercrop cultivation of chili. Ginger and turmeric production exceeded 200 kg each.
- Impact: Utilized income for family welfare and invested in quality seeds and fertilizers for pea cultivation.
Conclusion:
The TDF Manora/Jashpur project has significantly transformed the lives of tribal communities in the region. Through sustainable agricultural practices and crop diversification, farmers have not only increased their income but also improved their living standards and access to healthcare. The success stories of Sipriyanush Xolxo, Guthlu Ram, and Vinoth Panna serve as compelling examples of the project's positive impact on socio-economic development and livelihood enhancement in the Jashpur district.