“Step Towards Land, Soil, Water and Forest Conservation” Objective:

To conserve and restore natural resources, such as wildlife, forests, soil, and water, and promote sustainable livelihoods through organic farming and community engagement around Bhimbandh Sanctuary.

Description:

The project saves fauna, flora, soil, and water resources by integrating forest conservation and agro forestry with eco-friendly farming methods. Community members actively participate in sowing seed balls, growing organic vegetables, and running collective farmer clubs.

Key Challenges:

  • Deforestation and soil degradation threaten forest and wildlife
  • Dependence on ponds and rivers makes irrigation vulnerable to water
  • Sustaining community participation in organic farming and conservation activities.
  • Farmers require continuous training and technical support for organic and agro forestry
  • Limited market      access      and infrastructure may reduce income from crops and value-added
  • Wildlife and crops are at risk from pests, diseases, and unpredictable
  • Ensuring long-term sustainability of initiatives requires ongoing funding and community commitment.

Key Activities:

  • Vegetable cultivation and natural organic farming have been initiated by the people of Bhimbandh areas.
  • Fruit plants have been planted around every house, with all families receiving
  • Every year, about 5,000 seed balls of timber trees are made and scattered in wild bushes, accompanied by the message: “Plant trees and save trees.” This initiative raises environmental awareness among children and promotes forest
  • Water is supplied to fields from the pond through lift irrigation in Sonarwa

Key Achievements:

  • Paddy and Madua were cultivated for the first time in 2024 by 60-year-old Indra
  • Around 10 farmers have secured their livelihoods by planting crops and vegetables in their fields this year.
  • Water is supplied to farmers’ fields from a small river through a lift irrigation pump set.
  • Five farmer clubs have been formed, where members collectively engage in organic farming, fish farming, and vegetable cultivation.
  • Two agro forestry sites have been created, along with two organic farming laboratories-cum-native seed banks, enabling farmers to learn organic farming
  • Initiatives like Mahua laddu preparation and mushroom cultivation have been
  • The women farmers’ organization in Dhamankunda has improved their standard of living through activities such as producing nutritious sattu, making laddu, and fish farming.