Mitigating Droughts through Community Empowerment

Gramin Vikas Vigyan Samiti (GRAVIS), Jodhpur, Rajasthan

 Contact: Dr. Prakash Tyagi

Dates: April 2018 – March 2021

Total Budget: Rs. 12,66,840

2021 Budget: Rs. 4,20,440

This project operated to improve life in three villages in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan by fostering community empowerment, improving residential water resources, and facilitating better agricultural practices. GRAVIS organized and trained Village Development Committees (VDCs) and women’s Self-Help Groups to promote community organization and self-reliance. They constructed 15 taankas (rainwater storage tanks) and 20 bio-sand water filters to provide clean water for household use and provided training in their use and maintenance. They also established 12 seed banks to provide a reliable supply of crop varieties that are suited to the local soil and water conditions. The VDCs helped disseminate information on various issues including composting, utilizing government aid, and dealing with covid-19. Farmers in the villages received training in agricultural techniques to mitigate the effects of climate change and participated in two exchange visits where they interacted with agricultural scientists. As a result of these activities, the villagers have enjoyed marked improvements in crop yields and health conditions. 

Progress Report 2018  Progress Report 2019  Progress Report 2020  Progress Report 2021