Darabar Sahitya Sansad

With support from Tata Trusts, DSS is executing a Craft-based livelihood project in the Barkhama Dhokra cluster, located in the Baliguda block of Kandhamal district. The programme aims to achieve three significant objectives: doubling the income of 125 artisan households, tripling the volume of craft production, and ensuring wage employment for artisans for at least 200 days annually.

With funding from Madhyam Foundation, Bhubaneswar, and AWO International - Germany, DSS implemented a programme benefiting 1000 women vegetable growers across 30 villages in Nimapara, Puri district, and Balipatana, Khordha district. The programme focused on empowering the growers through training in organic farming, crop planning, bookkeeping, market management, and cooperative management. Additionally, the initiative provided support in the form of water-lifting pumps, grading centres, bore wells, and sales centres, with the aim of boosting their income levels.

DSS initiated a Migrant Workers Support Programme in collaboration with Tata Trusts to address the issue of migrant labour from the state. The programme initially covered two blocks, Balipatana in Khordha district, and Nimapara in Puri district. A subsequent three-year phase, starting in 2015-16, focused on the Balipatana block exclusively. However, Tata Trusts closed the project in November 2016, during the second year, which lasted for eight months. The primary objective was to intensify services for migrant workers, particularly the youth.

With funding from NRLM/OLM/Madhyam Foundation, DSS continued the MKSP program in Balipatana block, benefiting 600 women farmers with training in sustainable agriculture, soil testing, and group management. An exposure visit showcased vegetable farming practices. PRI members attended orientation programs, and a social audit involved 35 stakeholders. Cold chambers were built for 60 female farmers, and a computerized database was created for 600 farmers. The end-line survey revealed doubled incomes and 60% adoption of sustainable practices, while two cooperatives received strengthened support.

DSS organized two batches of Sewing training for young women, supported by Usha International through Gram Uthan. The training took place in Balipatana block, Khordha district, and Baliguda block, Kandhamal district. Usha International provided advanced sewing technique training to 30 young women sewing teachers. Additionally, 10 teachers received support from Usha with sewing machines and accessories to establish 10 sewing schools at their residences. The goal is to train 200 new women entrepreneurs in sewing/tailoring skills.

With funding from NABARD, AXIS Bank, and Gram Uthan, DSS organised five Financial literacy programs in Khordha and Puri districts for women SHG leaders, Cooperative leaders, and NGO functionaries. The programme aimed to raise awareness among rural women SHG members on financial inclusion, digital transactions, and digital literacy. Eminent resource persons and retired bankers conducted the programs, which received enthusiastic participation from the women SHG members.