Implementation Partner: Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati

Project Focused Area: Focused Development Program (FDP)

Districts: Hailakandi and Tejpur, Assam; Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya

Project Objective: To empower rural communities and promote sustainable agricultural practices by implementing a comprehensive project focused on agriculture and agri-residue based enterprises development through Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs).

Target Group: FPOs, FIGs, SHGs

Project 1: Developing SHGs to run a solar-integrated processing and dehumidifier unit for Ashwagandha and other medicinal herbs blended tea value-added supply chain through a 50-kilowatt agro-voltaic plant

The FDP project is being implemented covering 15 villages in Hailakandi district for the first year and in another 15 villages in Tejpur district of Assam in the second year. The project aims to promote Ashwagandha farming among 300 farmers in Assam State while simultaneously harnessing renewable energy through a 50 KW agro-voltaic structure. The project also involves setting up a medicinal herbs blended tea production unit. By creating Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs)/FPOs, the project aims to enhance farmers' income, foster sustainable agricultural practices, and promote renewable energy utilization for community development.

Project 2: Harnessing Agri-Residue: A Sustainable Approach to Pellet Production for Agriculture and Income Generation in Assam & Meghalaya

The FDP project is being implemented covering 15 villages in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya for the first year and in another 15 villages in the Hailakandi district of Assam in the second year. The project aims to utilize agricultural residues for pellet production in Assam and Meghalaya State. The focus is on collaborating with 300 farmers, establishing Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and promoting clean energy alternatives. The objectives include enhancing farmers' income, improving environmental conditions, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.

Project 3: Value Addition of Herbal Sugarcane as Packaged Juice in Dried Form and Establishment of Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for Sustainable Operations in Meghalaya State

The FDP project is being implemented covering 15 villages in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya in the first year. The project aims to add value to existing herbal sugarcane crops by processing them into packaged juice in dried form. It also aims to create Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for the sustainable operation and management of this value-added product in Assam State. The initiative seeks to promote economic empowerment, enhance local agricultural value chains, and provide healthier beverage options.