NIRMAN

NIRMAN is taking on the challenge of water scarcity through innovative and collective efforts. It is actively engaging in the promotion of community-led sustainable rainwater management in four tribal villages located in Rayagada district, Odisha. Looking ahead, the organisation has a clear vision of gradually extending this impactful intervention to encompass all the areas they operate in.

NIRMAN promotes ecological farming by encouraging the use of indigenous seeds, manure, and nature-friendly pest management systems. Five farmers' groups in Odisha's Tumudibandha Block have been certified under the Organic PGS, showing success in millet-based biodiverse farming, increasing crop diversity from 13 to 35 types, and extending food security by 45 to 60 days. NIRMAN's significant efforts in millet revival have led to Government recognition, including the inclusion of millets in the Mid-Day Meal and Public Distribution System, and partnering with Odisha Millets Mission for implementation in specific regions.

With the support of CWS-SDTT (Centre for World Solidarity-Sir Dorabji Tata Trust), the promotion of SRI (System of Rice Intensification) has expanded since July 2009. It now encompasses three Blocks in the Nayagarh district, one Block in the Kandhamal district, and one Block in the Rayagada district. The initiative has engaged 1825 farmers, emphasizing the adoption of SRI techniques while prioritizing the use of local seeds and inputs.

NIRMAN has partnered with ICRISAT-WWF to implement the 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative' (SSI) since 2009, aimed at enhancing sugarcane productivity. SSI's innovative approach raises sugar content, employs organic inputs, and reduces seed and water usage by 75% and 40-60%, respectively. The adoption of SSI by sugarcane farmers resulted in a 25% increase in yields, reduced input costs, and improved resilience. Expanding successfully to Ganjam and Bargarh districts with the support of ICRISAT-WWF and Ag SRI, SSI has provided farmers with a net average income of Rs. 56375 per acre, signifying a 47% higher return compared to traditional sugarcane farming.

NIRMAN initiated efforts to safeguard indigenous seeds and knowledge through regular training and seed treatment orientations for farming communities. This resulted in the conservation of 38 native rice varieties and various indigenous vegetables like brinjal, chilly, and ridge gourd. Additionally, NIRMAN preserved 31 millet and pulse varieties in the Kandhamal district. By closely collaborating with local communities, the organization empowers them to control local genetic resources (seeds, medicinal plants, and livestock) and uphold their rights while benefiting from biodiversity.

NIRMAN empowers community resource persons in sustainable farming and natural resources management. It has assisted 600 tribal families in obtaining Legal Rights to 750 acres of customarily used forest land. Moreover, 69 villages acquired Community Rights over Community Forest Resource areas under the Forest Rights Act, of 2006. Its participatory forest governance involves the Gram Sabha in conservation and management. It has created a valuable manual on Community Claims Filing under FRA, aiding NGOs, communities, and Government officials advocating for Adivasi and forest dwellers' rights. NIRMAN also facilitates community-based forest management plans through innovative socio-ecological assessments as mandated by the FRA.