Peoples Action for Rural Advancement and Sustainability (PARAS)

The programme, supported by SDTT (Tata Trust), aims to uplift farmers in flood-affected villages of Faizabad, enhancing their agricultural livelihoods. Focused on Ramnagar Dhaurahra, Maholi Sibar, and Hazipur Barsendi, it seeks to mitigate flood damage and promote eco-friendly practices. With goals to benefit 1500 households, it introduces improved agricultural techniques, fosters community groups, and facilitates access to Government schemes. Its objectives include augmenting productivity, conserving resources, and boosting incomes, aiming for sustainable livelihoods and food security while minimizing flood-related losses in the region.

PARAS Foundation, supported by Hindustan Unilever Foundation, implemented FASAL-2, emphasizing agricultural advancements across the Sohawal and Rudauli blocks in the Faizabad district. It focused on diverse techniques like multilayer farming, intercropping, crop intensification, seed production, compost usage, and water-saving practices. The project conducted farm demonstrations and farmer training sessions, promoting sustainable livelihoods through innovative agricultural methods in various villages this year.

The ERW project, supported by MISEREOR, Germany, engaged the PARAS Foundation in empowering 1535 women across ten GPs in Rudauli Block, Faizabad district. Focused on enhancing local governance and reducing domestic violence, it aimed to improve livelihoods and bolster women's involvement in Gram Sabha meetings, PDS shops, health services, and MNREGA schemes. Achievements included issuing 42 MNREGA job cards, addressing 19 domestic violence cases, fostering leadership among 47 Nari Sangh members for monitoring schemes, increasing women's participation in Gram Sabha meetings by 62%, and ensuring 36 Nari Sangh leaders' consistent involvement in VHND for quality assurance. Additionally, 2430 women collectively demanded work in MNREGA via written letters to Pradhan, while also engaging a legislator in Nari Sangh events and conducting monthly meetings for ongoing progress.

Under the support of Madchenschule Khadigram, Germany, PARAS Foundation administers the SSP (Subham School Project), emphasizing quality education for children aged 3 to 11. With approximately 300 enrolled students from nearby villages, the school covers nursery to 8th grade, offering subjects like English, Hindi, Math, and Computer Studies. Notably, the project accommodates 30 dropout girls, extending educational opportunities and striving to enhance the educational prospects of the enrolled children for a better future.