Where we work
In Maharashtra, we are present in the Ghatanji taluka of Yavatmal district and Chandur Railway taluka of Amravati district in the Vidarbha region, an area characterised by severe agrarian distress. The terrain is predominantly undulating, with high rates of surface runoff. Excessive water extraction has reduced both surface and groundwater, thus leading to water scarcity. Though rich in forest and mineral wealth, the region’s economy is mainly agricultural. Neglected traditional agricultural practices, low levels of crop diversification, a strong preference for high risk and high input cash crops such as cotton, and the rising cost of agricultural inputs, have all contributed to the region's agrarian distress.
What we do
We connect farming with the common pastures and forests as a viable, larger system, and work towards strengthening local governance for improved management of natural resources, as well as providing livelihood security.
Impact at a Glance
As on Mar 2023Village Institutions
Strengthened
Through FES
Teams
Through Government
& NGO Partners
Thousand Lives
Impacted
Through FES
Teams
Through Government
& NGO Partners
Thousand Acres of Commons under Community Governance
Through FES
Teams
Through Government
& NGO Partners
Through Direct Engagement
*Map not to scale
*Map not to scale
Testimonials
"We faced several challenges as women. It was difficult to even talk in the Panchayat meetings. But all 30 of us came together, and women from other villages supported us too. We made the GP hand over the community tank to us (from the contractor) for fishery. Now, we have framed rules on water usage for purposes other than fishery. By doing so, we have managed to generate around INR 2 lakhs' income within the village community. We could do this because of our collective strength."
Mandabai Khushalsingh Thakur, President of Matsyapalan Samiti (Fishery Committee)
Lingi Village, Ghatanji Block, Yavatmal District
"Unlike previous years, once we repaired the damaged Cement Nala Bund, it has helped us get the water we need to irrigate our crops this year. In addition to this, it has also helped arrest water runoff from the drainage, therefore promoting local groundwater recharge."
LAXMAN GANPAT ANAKE
Jarur, Yavatmal
"Earlier, I was able to cultivate only 0.25 acres with flood irrigation. After attending the training on water budgeting and better agriculture practices, I now cultivate my entire 2 acres using sprinkler irrigation. I am able to grow more crops, and vegetables. This meets my family needs and I sell the surplus in the market. This has made my land healthier and I also get an additional income, which helps me better support my family."
Subash Sadhu Choudhry
Ramnagar, Yavatmal
Partner Highlights
The MoU signed with the Maharashtra Government and several state departments has furthered the efforts towards Community Forest Rights in Vidarbha, river rejuvenation in Amravati and Yavatmal, development of Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) in Yavatmal, and strengthened livelihoods in Vidarbha through the Maharashtra State Rural Livelihood Mission. 7.08 million people across 11 districts and 8,282 villages will benefit from these efforts, directly and indirectly.