Livelihood
Promoting interventions that maintain and improve the ability of rural communities to derive food and livelihoods from their local environment is a crucial component of RJSS Program. Rural communities are highly dependent upon forests, watersheds and natural resources for their sustenance. However, due to climatic conditions and poor geographical accessibility, many communities experience difficulties in maintaining a productive environment and sufficient employment opportunities throughout the year.
RJSS promoted diverse methods of cultivation that enable rural communities to maximize their agricultural productivity. RJSS facilitated Horticulture, System of Rice Intensification (SRI) methods of cultivation, improved variety of crops showing etc. As a result of these interventions, villages have benefitted from positive outcome in agriculture productivity. 316 farmers in 12 villages of the project area were linked with the livelihood program. Farmers were provided revolving fund, which enabled them to start goat rearing, vegetable farming, grocery shops etc. and they earned Rs. 6 Lakhs from the major amount. Now they are trying to change their lives by spending on their children and family.
SRI was done in Satganwan block of Koderma district. Under this project, proper training on seed selection, nursery, field preparation etc. was provided to the farmers.
Revolving fund has been made available to 162 farmers for vegetable farming. Farmers have earned Rs. 6 lakhs by cultivating vegetable in around 40 acres of land, which has increased their confidence and the source of income and left a positive impact on their lifestyle. Increase in area under vegetable farming has resulted in stemming migration to cities and have increased family income.
To give special focus to lac cultivation, RJSS has provided several trainings to the women group of Khunti District, Jharkhand. To improve the lac cultivation and production, the organization started improvement of the lac cultivation skills of the community. Training was provided to the women on initial processing of lac with an aim to develop some cottage industry at village level, so that more income can be made from processed lac.
The village in the project area is considered to be one of the most backward and disadvantaged villages. In this case, goat rearing is seen as a better business opportunity for the villagers. To promote this, the organization has provided revolving fund for goat rearing to 14 farmers. Income from goat rearing gradually increased their business and helped them in empowering their family. They are now able to enroll their children to the school.
Women are worst affected when it comes to unemployment and poverty. Women empowerment through self-reliance and financial independence can be achieved by providing vocational training, through which women can either start up something of their own or take- up a job. RJSS has provided various Sewing and Cutting Training to make women SHG self-sufficient and confident. Interested women are trained for cutting, embroidery, and tailoring. Further, basic tailoring skills enable women to work from home, they can continue in their traditional role as homemaker and yet earn.