Action for Social Advancement

Action for Social Advancement establishes Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) like self-help groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organisations to empower communities. These groups, including women SHGs, form the core of ASA's programmes, engaging in activities from savings to livelihood improvement. It recognizes women's pivotal role in development and ensures their active involvement, fostering confident individuals who contribute significantly within families and communities.

The organisation focuses on sustainable economic growth through its Land and Water Resource Development programme, driven by the concept "Land is Livelihood." This initiative is integral to its strategy for improving rural livelihoods. With an integrated approach, it recognizes the potential of restoring and managing natural resources in rural areas to enhance livelihoods.

Recognizing the significance of land and water for agricultural-based livelihoods, the organization highlights that families with one to two acres of land can double cropping intensity through an investment of approximately Rs. 50000-60000, aided by institutional credit from entities like Self Help Groups and Farmer Producer Organisations. The organisation supports Gram Panchayats and community groups in executing these plans, using MGNREGS funds, resulting in successful outcomes across their programme areas.

The organisation is dedicated to enhancing agricultural productivity to support sustainable livelihoods. A significant part of its approach involves the 'Responsible Crop Initiative (RCI),' commonly known as "Jimmedar Kheti." This initiative introduces a certification system for agricultural practices that reduces the ecological and social impact of farming, while concurrently increasing yields and productivity for farmers, contributing to a more sustainable farming sector. These practices are also aligned with the Good Agricultural Practices advocated by the Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations and are consistent with the proposed goals of the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture. The initiative seamlessly complements ASA's other focal points, including land and water resource development, and the promotion of Farmer Producer Organisations for agribusiness.

ASA has played a pioneering role in the realm of strengthening small-scale farmers through the establishment of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) since 2005. This innovative approach involves uniting around 1000-1500 small farmers under the umbrella of FPOs, effectively integrating them into the agricultural supply chain. These FPOs are formally registered under the Producer Companies Act.

To further support these FPOs, ASA has also introduced the "Center for Incubation and Support for Smallholder Producer Organisations (CISSPO)," a dedicated entity established in 2017-18. The primary objective of CISSPO is to collaborate closely with FPOs, enhancing their value chains and creating a favourable environment for their growth. This initiative also emphasizes the crucial aspects of ensuring food security, diverse produce, and risk mitigation at the level of producers.