PROGRESS REPORT

ACCION FRATERNA ECOLOGY CENTRE Upparapalli Road, Bangalore Highway, Anantapur – 515 002

+91 (0) 8554 - 244222, 246884 - Fax : +91 (0) 8554 – 244990, E-mail : actionf@sancharnet.in; actionf_atp@dataone.in and yvmallareddy@yahoo.co.in

Web : www.af-ecologycentre.org

For the period 01.04.2011 to 30.09.2011

ICCO : Project No. : 71-03-03-016 (2009-12) EED : Project No. : 20090224 G (2009-12) FMSF : Project No. : 20090224 G (2009-12)

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INDEX

Code No.

Description Page Numbers

From To

1. GENERAL INFORMATION 4 4

2. DIRECTOR’S REPORT 5 8

2. OUTCOME & IMPACT 9 19

3. ACTIVITIES 20 32

4. CHANGES IN THE ORGANISATION 33 34

5. CHANGES IN DEVELOPMENT CONTEXT & PROBLEM ANALYSIS

35 38

CASE STUDIES 39 42

ANNEXURES 43 57

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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS Sl.No. Abbreviation Expansion

1  AF‐EC  Accion Fraterna, Ecology Centre 

2  BIFSRA  Bio‐intensive Farming System in Rain fed Areas  

3  CDM  Clean Development Mechanism

4  CER  Certified Emission Reduction 

5  CLDP  Comprehensive Land Development Programme 

6  CBO  Community Based Organization 

7  CSA  Centre for Sustainable Agriculture

8  CSO  Civil Society Organisations 

9  DPR  Detailed Project Report 

10  E&E Coalition  Empowerment & Entitlements Coalition

11  FCN  Fair Climate Network 

12  FCRA  Foreign Contribution Regulation Act  

13  FGD  Focused Group Discussions 

14  FFS  Farmer Field School

15  GSS  Grama Sasyamithra Samakhyas 

16  HEIDA  High External Input Destructive Agriculture 

17  ICRISAT  International Crop Research Institute for Semi Arid Tropics 

18  IFS  Integrated Farming System

19  ITES  Information Technology Enabled Services 

20  IWMP  Integrated Watershed Management Program 

21  KK  Karyakarthas 

22  LCF  Low Carbon Farming

23  LEISA  Low External Input Sustainable Agriculture 

24  MFTC  Multiple Fruit Tree Cropping  

25  MGNREGS  Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee  Scheme

26  MSS  Mandal Sasyamitra Samakhyas 

27  NABARD  National Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development 

28  NGO  Non‐Governmental Organization 

29  NPM  Non‐pesticidal Management

30  PDS  Public Distribution System 

31  PIME  Planning, Implementation, Monitoring & Evaluation 

32  PPME  Participatory Planning Monitoring & Evaluation 

33  RDT  Rural Development Trust

34  SA  Sustainable Agriculture  

35  SC  Scheduled Caste 

36  SMGs  Sasya Mitra Groups 

37  SRI  System of Rice Intensification

38  ST  Scheduled Tribe 

39  STO  Socio‐Technical Organizer 

40  VER  Verified Emission Reducation

41  WCC  Watershed Computer Centre

42  WDC  Watershed Development Committee 

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General Information Name of organization : ACCION FRATERNA ECOLOGY CENTRE Physical Address : Upparapalli road, Bangalore Highway Anantapur – 515 002 A.P. – India Postal Address : Upparapalli road, Bangalore Highway Anantapur – 515 002 A.P. – India Telephone : +91 8554 244222 / 246884 Contact Person : Dr. Y.V. Malla Reddy (with cell phone no.) (0)98490 56555

Fax : +91 8554 244990 Email : actionf@sancharnet.in;

action_atp@dataone.in

Website : www.af-ecologycentre.org Project Title : Sustainable Agriculture & Rural Livelihood

Program Project Number : ICCO : 71-03-03-016 EED : 20090224 G FMSF : 20090224 G Project Period : 01.04.2009 to 31.03.2012 Reporting Period : 01.04.2011 to 30.09.2011 Date of the Report : 30.12.2011 Author of the Report : Dr. Y.V. Malla Reddy

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1. DIRECTOR’S REPORT

1.1 Introduction. The year 2011-12 had a good start for AF – EC, with an intensive training program on Natural Farming to all our staff members and CBOs leaders by Natural Farming expert Mr.Subhash Palekar. During this reporting period the organization has become more compact, cohesive and flat with 3 tier structure and recruited more women staff. It has resulted in improved efficiency and effectiveness. The systems of staff accountability, transparency in financial transactions and CBO involvement in decision making have been firmed up. The overall discipline in the organization has improved.

1.2 General Situation of Anantapur District 1.2.1 A favorable year for wage laborers:

The year 2011-12 is relatively favorable for the wage laborers of MGNREGS. They availed good wage employment under MGNREGS during April – June 2011. But there was no work for them during July – Sep’ 2011 as the MGNREGS works were stopped, in order to make labor available for farmers for agricultural operations. However the laborers did not get sufficient employment during Kharif 2011 from agricultural operations, as the crops were failed due to lack of timely rains, which also resulted in low or no crop yields. During the reporting period 40% of households availed wage labour under MGNREGS. Out of them 36% families belong to SC& ST communities. The average no. of days of work availed per family is 51 days and the average wage per day is Rs 109. So the family that had availed work has earned about Rs 5550 in 3 months period from MGNREGS. AF has been coordinating with Govt. staff in proper implementation of MGNREGS and motivating the labor families to avail 100 days of employment every year. Youth from AF’s project villages were trained by AF in verification of Muster rolls, quantity of work done, payment distribution etc.

1.2.2 A “hopeless season” for farmers Farmers had lost hope of getting a groundnut crop during 2011 kharif, as there were no timely rains. The erratic rainfall had adversely affected groundnut and other crops. Farmers lost the hope by end of September and left the crop for grazing. There was a huge crop failure all over the District.

The ponds and bore wells did not get recharged this season due to scanty rainfall. Farmers are also worried about Rabi crops as there no sufficient water available. The extent of cultivation in Rabi season is expected to come down drastically. The farmers with fruit trees also face problems this year, because of no ground water.

1.3 Programmatic Changes in AF 1.3.1 Changes in Staff:

During the reporting period i.e. 01.04.2011 to 30.09.2011, totally, 9 staff members (5 men and 4 women) resigned for various reasons and 13 candidates have been newly recruited, of whom there are 8 Women. Presently, AF has 35% women staff (23 out of 66). AF has started to work with fewer no. of STOs and appointed a Karyakarta (volunteer) in each of its 230 program villages. Since these karyakartas are village - based, they can provide a closer monitoring and follow

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up at each farmer family level. They will be paid monthly performance-based incentives, as per the recommendation of the GSS.

1.4 Update on other Programs of AF 1.4.1 Update on NABARD watersheds

AF is working in 6 Watersheds funded by NABARD. Totally, Rs. 69 millions has been sanctioned for these watersheds to be implemented in 4 years. During the reporting period, AF has implemented various activities like; (a) Land development works (b) Plantation works and (c) Providing loans for Agricultural Productivity Enhancement, Non-farm livelihoods etc. All the above activities were implemented in a participatory and transparent manner. The details of works & payments have been clearly displayed on the walls in prominent places in the villages.

1.4.2 Update on IWMP watersheds The State Govt. has sanctioned 3 mega watersheds to AF under its Integrated Watershed Management Program (IWMP). Muttala mega watershed sanctioned in 2009-10, covers 4 villages. The Project period is 7 years and the total financial outlay is Rs. 30.42 millions. Bandameedipalli mega watershed has been sanctioned in the year 2010-11. It covers 4 villages. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) is prepared and submitted in September’2011. The financial outlay of this watershed is Rs. 59 millions. The third watershed sanctioned under this project in 2011 is Kuderu watershed. The DPR is under preparation. The activities being implemented in Muttala watershed are related to Natural Resource Management, Productivity Enhancement & Livelihood Promotion.

1.4.3 Update on CDM-Bio-gas project

AF’s Biogas project under CDM has progressed well during the Reporting period. The proposal has gone for registration in UNFCC. AF is in final lap of preparation work in CDM project. All the other approvals have come including the Host Country approval. The registration with UNFCC is only a formality now and we are expecting it to be completed by January 2012. During the recent Durban climate conference, the Kyoto protocol is extended till 2017. Earlier only Annexure I countries (developed) were involved in CDM and now EU strongly argued for including developing countries in the list (mainly China, India and Brazil). All the countries including India have agreed upon common but differential responsibility and that by 2017, all the countries have to be under CDM. This will have lot of implications on our work. Already buyers are coming forward to give forward funding to CDM project of A.F-EC. In general conditions, the construction cost of the Biogas unit will be deducted from the income that farmer gets through CERs during the initial years i.e., 6-7 years and income from 8th year would go to the farmer. So A.F is exploring possibilities to raise “slow capital” from social Investors which help farmers getting income from the early years.

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1.4.4 Update on Low Carbon Farming (LCF) project AF has been piloting the LCF project to help Anantapur farmers especially rainfed farmers to generate income through carbon credits in agriculture. AF – EC is one among the 5 network members who have taken up this pilot LCF programme. During this reporting period, LCF is taken up in paddy crop by 838 farmers in 1315 acres in 55 villages. AF has established a paddy reference plot in Raminepalli village to measure green house gas emissions. However a functional lab could not be established in time to capture kharif crop. The lab is now functional with one research Assistant and two lab assistants appointed to collect samples of GHG emissions and analyze in the laboratory. The experiments now have to be carried out in Rabi season. AF is preparing the farmers for experimenting with Groundnut and Paddy crops. We have to wait up to March 2012 to see the results of the pilot project. We are only optimistic, but not aware of its potential.

1.4.5 Update on E&E coalition Program

During the reporting period the E &E coalition mainly focused on; (a) Its Strategic future direction, (b) Reflection on its program, (C) Leadership in the coalition, (d) Rules of engagement and (e) Partners’ mutual exchange visits. The present Plans & Budget were reviewed and a new action plan was prepared. The legal holder ship and coordination of the E & E has shifted from Timbaktu Collective to REDS, Tumkur.

1.5. Important Events / Trainings 1.5.1 Training on Zero Budget Natural Farming – an alternative to HEIDA

Accion Fraterna has been passionately working towards bringing a paradigm shift in agriculture from HEIDA (High External Input Destructive Agriculture) to LEISA. To increase awareness on LEISA among farmers of Anantapur district, AF had organized a training program on Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF). This 4 day training program for farmers was organized in collaboration with Timbaktu Collective during April 25 - 28, 2011 at MGR functional hall in Anantapur town. Mr. Subhash palekar, a renowned expert in Natural Farming from Maharastra was the resource person. 720 farmers (170 women and 550 men) have attended the meeting from all over the district. The participants from AF project villages were mainly karyakarthas, convenors and co-convenors of Sasya Mitra Groups (SMG) and Grama Sasyamitra Samakyas (GSS). All the methods and techniques learnt were simple, practical, cost effective and nature friendly. The participant farmers were very attentive and learned many useful Sustainable Agriculture practices in this training. This training was really helpful in creating awareness on sustainable agriculture which is essential for combating drought and desertification of Anantapur district. (See Annexure 1)

1.5.2 Training on Social Business, Civic Driven Change and Social Return on Investment

The NGO sector has seen a phenomenal change during the last few years. The whole development sector is undergoing a metamorphosis. The current

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emerging paradigm shift in the this sector is to look at social business as an important tool to achieve the development goals As a leader in this sector, Accion Fraterna is always keen to explore new emerging ideas for achieving its goals. As part of this exploration, AF has organized training on Social Business, Civic Driven Change and Social Return On Investment. This five day training and seminar was co sponsored and organized by Accion Fraterna and Context International Cooperation, Netherlands, from 13.09.2011 to 17.09.2011 at AF Ecology centre, Anantapur. About 30 participants from India, Srilanka and Netherlands have attended the training. The resource persons were Fons van der velden, Udan Fernando and Pradeep Esteves from Context, International cooperation, Netherlands and Satyasree Goswami from Foresee social entrepreneurs, Bangalore. The purpose of the training was to develop an understanding about Social Business approach to Social Change and Development and application of Social Business in real life. The training and seminar gave a very practical understanding of the concept and practice of Social Business, Civic Driven Change and Social Return on Investment. It also analyzed the importance of social business in developing country like India. The 3 day training was followed by a two day seminar on Social Business in which the ways for taking forward the concept and practice of Social Business was explored. (See Annexure 2)

1.5.3 Collaboration with ILRI for investigating the impact of Groundnut variety ICGV-9114 variety and its fodder value.

AF – EC is promoting cultivation of ICGV 9114 variety of Groundnut (which is also called Ananta Jyothi) in Anantapur district, especially for Rainfed farmers. During the reporting period AF –EC has collaborated with International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), New Delhi, to study the impact of ICGV 9114 variety Groundnut in rainfed lands and value of its fodder for livestock. (For more information see the report in Annexure – 3)

1.6 The challenges ahead

The changes initiated in the staff structure, participatory systems, CBOs etc., are to be consolidated and strengthened. The systems of staff accountability, transparency and performance assessment have to be strengthened and consolidated. The NABARD Watershed Programmes, IWMP Watershed Programmes and MGNREG Programmes have to be further focused and streamlined incorporating the lessons from within and outside. The LCF programme and Biogas CDM programme have to be developed and integrated gradually into the core programme of Sustainable Agriculture. And then get ready for next phase i.e. 2012-2015 projects.

So, we see so many things lined-up, competing with each other and challenging us to be done urgently. And we shall live up to the challenge.

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2. OUTCOME & IMPACT

2.1 PROJECT Objective:

To enhance the quality of life of 60,000 resource poor farmer and farm labor families by promoting; (a) Sustainable Agriculture, (b) Additional off-farm & non-farm livelihoods, (c) Youth rehabilitation in non-farm sector, (d) Access to basic services and (e) Pro-poor policies, through CBOs, in a participatory approach encompassing gender and equity.

2.1.1 Objectively Verifiable Indicators:

Ind-1 : Status of family - Economic and Food Security. Ind-2 : Diversity in skills and employment. Ind-3 : Occupational mobility of rural youth towards non-farm sector. Ind-4 : Rate of distress migration. Ind-5 : Social and Gender equity in benefits.

2.2. Objectives for Project Components (Specific Objectives): 2.2.1 Component-1 : Promoting Sustainable Agriculture

Ind-1: % of farmer families practicing at least 3 NPM / LEISA practices. Ind-2: % of farmer families practicing multiple cropping with at least 3

other crops. Ind-3: % of farmer families accessing land devt. works under MGNREGS.

2.2.2 Component-2 : Promoting the access of basic services and promoting diversified livelihoods.

Ind-1: % of job-seeking labor families accessing a minimum of 100 days of employment under MGNREGP in a year.

Ind-2: % of labor families accessing basic services like PDS, education, health.

Ind-3:% of labor families accessing credits for dairy/livestock development.

Ind-4:% of labor families with their youth (both boys & girls) either employed in non-farm sector or self-employed.

2.2.3 Component-3 : Alliance Building and Policy Advocacy.

Ind-1:No. and type of other NGOs and CSOs, with whom alliances are made. Ind-2: No. of CBOs involved in policy issues. Ind-3: No. & type of issues identified and represented at various levels. Ind-4: No. & type of issues taken up for lobbying with Govt. Ind-5: Changes brought about in policies / implementation procedures.

2.2.4 Component-4 : Organizational Development. Indicator-1: Improved gender policies within the organization. Indicator-2: Gender & social equity policies integrated in program activities. Indicator-3: PPME reports prepared.

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1.3. Achievement of Project & Project Component Objectives 2.3.1 Achievement of Project Objective

IND No

Impact Indicator

Status during the Reporting Period

1 Status of family - Economic and Food Security.

During kharif 2011 there were prolonged dry spells. The dry spell in July resulted in delayed sowings and reduction in the extent of sowings and the dry spell in September resulted in huge crop loss and severe drought across the district. The farmer and farm labor are expected to be left with low / no income from agriculture. The implementation of MGNREGS was a little relief as 40% of rural population got wage labour. Added to that, the price hike of food grains, Groceries, fuel costs and indiscriminate power cuts have badly affected the lives of farmer and farm labor families. Severe seed scarcity is also expected for the coming Rabi 2011 and kharif 2012 seasons. The acute scarcity of fodder might lead to distress sale of cattle and small ruminants and also migration to cities.

Govt announced crop insurance for the year 2009-10. All the 8 mandals of AF’s project area have been covered, but not yet received the crop insurance. AF-EC campaigned and promoted millets and pulses through Village Seed Banks. 2,090 rainfed farmers sowed millets, pulses, Castor etc in their 8,126 acres of lands. But, only about 40 – 50% of the normal yields are expected in the above crops, because of unfavorable weather conditions.

The target families are able to access the PDS. 17,294 farmer and farm labor families (81% of the total 20,764 families, enrolled into AF’s SMGs) are accessing PDS, which has ensured food security to an extent. MGNREGS provided good employment to wage seekers during April – June 2011. But the MGNREGS works were stopped during July – Sep’ 2011 to make labor available for farmers for agricultural operations. However the laborers did not get sufficient employment during Kharif 2011 from agricultural operations, as the crops were failed due to lack of timely rains, which also resulted in low or no crop yields. During the reporting period 40% of households availed wage labour under MGNREGS. Out of them 36% families belong to SC& ST communities. The average no. of days of work availed per family is 51 days and the average wage per day is Rs 109. So the family that had availed work has earned about Rs 5550 in 3 months period from MGNREGS.

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2 & 3 Diversity in skills and employment. Occupational mobility among rural boys & girls towards non-farm sector.

The poor rainfed farmer and farm labor families of Anantapur district need additional sources of income to withstand the highly adverse living conditions like harsh climate, unproductive agriculture, lack of industries & marketing facilities, poverty etc. So, AF is striving hard to bring, occupational diversity & mobility of rural women and Youth in Off-farm & Non-farm sectors.

During 2006-09, AF provided Alternate livelihoods support for 2,607 farmer and farm labor women. Of them 2,170 (83%) have been enrolled into AF’s SMGs. Of these 2,170 women, 1,143 (53%) are continuing those livelihoods and earning an income of Rs. 2,500 to 4,500 per annum.

Women from 432 SMG families have accessed loans from banks and purchased Dairy animals, Sheep & Goats during the reporting period.

Totally 313 rural youth, 99 boys and 214 girls have been trained in job oriented skills during the reporting period. Of them 218 youth (70%) are from SMG families.

Totally, 124 youth (40%) have found employment. Of them there are 86 girls and 38 boys.

Of the 86 girls, who have found employment; (a) 28 girls are doing piece work on contract basis and earning about Rs. 2,000 – 2,500 p.m, (b) 16 girls are working in tailoring shops and earning about Rs.1,500 – 1,800 p.m and (c) 42 girls are working from their homes and earning about Rs.1,000 – 1,200 p.m, on an average.

Of the 99 boys trained in Driving, 38 boys are employed in Private sector and earning about Rs. 4,000 – 6,000 p.m.

This has enhanced the self worth of rural women and youth in the community. Their importance has grown in the family and their opinions are being considered in family decisions. They have become confident and outgoing and want to work and earn more.

4 Rate of distress migration.

The crisis, financial break-down and the consequent distress among the poor farmer and farm labor families, during the reporting period has led to considerable migration in the district. However, its rate is very low in AF’s project villages. The migration has started mostly from end August. Also the distress sale of cattle was witnessed in the district.

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2.3.2 Achievement of Project Component Objectives

PCO No

IND No

Desired End Result

(By 2012)

Achieved during April-September 2011 Remarks

1 1 Of the total 16,000 small and marginal farmer families, atleast 1,600 families (10%of the target families), reduce their Cost of Cultivation by practicing at least 3 of the following LEISA practices: Use pest

traps. Use bio-

pesticides. Use bio-

fertilizers. Practice SRI

and provide Azolla & alleys in paddy.

Of the 15,605 small & marginal farmer families enrolled into AF’s SA program; During the Reporting period 934

families (About 6%), and during the present phase (2006-09), 2,066 families (About 13%), have used Pest traps in their fields.

During the Reporting period 527 families (About 3%), and during the present phase 1,475 families (About 9%), have applied Bio- pesticides to their crops.

During the Reporting period 1,014 families (About 6%), and during the present phase 2,205 families (About 14%), have used Bio-fertilizers like Jeevamritam to their crops.

During the Reporting period 446 families (About 3%) and during the present phase 1,049 families (About 7%), are practicing SRI and have provided Azolla & alleys in paddy. Totally, during the Reporting period 674 families (About 4% of the enrolled families) and during the present phase (2006-09) 1,387 families (About 9%) have adopted at least 3 of the above LEISA practices saving atleast Rs 1500 per ha.

Performance of this indicator has gone down compared to last year because: (a) AF is working only with focus groups and the no. of enrolled farmer families in each village has come down from 200 to 75 and the indicators have been measured only w.r.t. the enrolled families. (b) The SMGs were reorganized during 2011 and it is taking time for them to settle down. (c) Mostly new farmers, who have not received any incentives were enrolled into the SMGs.

2 Of the total 16,000 small and marginal farmer families, 20% practice multiple cropping with at least 3 of the following crops : Fruit tree

crops. Farm forestry

with wild fruit, fodder

Of the 15,605 small & marginal farmer families enrolled;

During the Reporting period 309 families (About 2 %) and during the present phase 1,038 families (About 7%) have grown Fruit tree crops.

During the Reporting period 1,443 families (About 9 %) and during the present phase 4,107 families (About 26%) have raised Farm forestry through seed dibbling.

During the Reporting period, 2,090 families (About 13 %) and during

Performance of this indicator has gone down compared to last year because: (a) All the reasons mentioned above. (b) AF itself is not providing fruit plants & has to mobilize it from Govt. & other agencies.

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and bio-mass plantations.

Food crops like millets, pulses etc.

Vegetables Fodder.

the present phase 4,426 families (About 28%) have grown food crops like Millets & Pulses.

During the Reporting period 896 families (About 6 %) and during the present phase 2,160 families (About 14%) have grown Vegetables in their farm lands.

During the Reporting period 1,267 families (About 8 %) and during the present phase 3,393 families (About 22%) have grown fodder in their farm lands.

Totally, during the Reporting period 1,215 families (About 8% of the enrolled families) and during the present phase 2,632 families (About 17%) have adopted multiple cropping with at least 3 of the above crops.

3 Of the total 16,000 small and marginal farmer families, 10% improve the carrying capacity of their lands by accessing land developmental works under MGNREGP.

Of the 15,605 small & marginal farmer families enrolled; During the Reporting period only 165

families (About 1%) and during the present phase 3,284 families (About 21%) have accessed land devt works like Farm Compost Pits, Farm Ponds & Soil Bunding under MGNREGP.

Of the 4,600 small & marginal farmer families in the 16 NABARD & IWMP watershed villages;

During the Reporting period, 171 families have accessed SMC works like Soil and stone bunds in their 280 ha. of lands and during the present phase 329 families have accessed the above works in their 586 ha. of lands

During the Reporting period 9 families and during the present phase 26 families have excavated farm ponds in their lands.

During the Reporting period 194 families have raised mango plantations in their 289 ha. of dry land and during the present phase 314 families have raised mango plantations in their 414

Implementation of NABARD & IWMP watershed programs was as planned during the reporting period.

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ha. of dry land. During the Reporting period 86

families have raised Bio-mass plantations in their 120 ha. of land and during the present phase 118 families have raised Bio-mass plantations in their 204 ha. of dry land.

Totally, during the Reporting period 625 families (3% of the total families) and during the present phase 4077 families (20% of the total families) have improved the carrying capacity of their lands by accessing land devt works under MGNREGS, NABARD watersheds & IWMP watershed programs .

2 1 Of the total 13,000 farm labor families (incl. small & marginal farmers), 60% families get atleast 60 days of employment under MGNREGS during a year.

During the Reporting period, of the 12,432 farm labor families enrolled;

6,418 persons (3,412 men & 3,006 women) from 5100 families (41% of the farm labor families) could access wage employment in MGNREGS.

255,400 person days of work was provided @ 51 person days/ family.

Each family earned Rs. 5,550 at an average wage rate of Rs. 109 per day.

Women got equal wages, on par with men.

MGNREGS provided timely employment to wage seekers during April – June 2011 when there was no other work available in villages. More than 40% of households availed wage labour under MGNREGS. Out of them 36% families belong to SC& ST communities.

2 Of the total 13,000 farm labor families, 90% access basic services like PDS, education, health etc.

During the reporting period, of the 650 farm labor families surveyed (5% sample);

530 families (About 81%) have accessed PDS.

217 families (About 33%) have 316 children of primary school age. Of them 287 children (About 91%) have been enrolled. But 32 children (About 11%) have dropped out.

Presently, 255 children (About 81% of the school-aged children from the labor families) are continuing in primary schools, which Indicates a better retention rate in primary schools)

The divide between the rainfed small and marginal farmers & laborers has become very thin. So, both farmer and labor families were considered for the survey.

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3 Of the total 13,000 farm labor families, about 650 families (5%) access credit support from Banks for the purchase of dairy animals or small ruminants.

During the reporting period, of the 650 farm labor families surveyed;

12 families (About 2%) have accessed loan from Banks & other agencies for purchase of dairy animals.

28 families (About 4%) have accessed loan from Banks for the purchase of Sheep and Goats.

--

4 1,300 Rural youth (Girls & Boys) from atleast 10% of the 13,000 farm labor families, diversify their occupational base thro’ acquisition of job-oriented skills.

Of the 12,432 farm labor families enrolled; During the reporting period, Youth

(Girls & Boys) from 313 families (About 3%) and during the present phase, Youth from 1,837 families (About 15%) have diversified their occupational base with non-farm sector.

During the reporting period, 214 Girls and during the present phase 1,351 Girls have been trained in Tailoring & Embroidery.

During the reporting period, 99 Boys and during the present phase 486 Boys have been trained in Driving, IT Enabled Services etc.

-

3 1 Building issue based alliances with concerned NGOs & CSOs:

a) To focus on policy & implementation issues related to agriculture, off-farm & non-farm livelihoods, accessing employment and basic services etc.

b) To mobilize public opinion on

AF has taken the following measures to focus on issues related to policies & implementation, mobilizing public opinion and lobbying with Govt.: Actively participated in Issue based

alliances like (a) Food security coalition (b) All India Coordinated Millets Improvement Program (AICMIP) (c) E&E coalition for Social equity (d) Integrated Child Devt Scheme (ICDS).

Also AF has been lobbying for taking up dry land horticulture Under MGNREGS. Now this has become a policy.

Discussed with CBOs, at different levels to identify issues related to SA and Rural livelihoods and consolidate people’s voice for advocacy.

Arranged public campaigns, Rallies at different levels on SA, to publicize the

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the above issues and represent them in relevant forums

c) To lobby with Govt. for appropriate action.

issues and for a Govt – public interface.

Presently conducting Research on issues related to SA for taking up national level advocacy thro’ E&E coalition.

Presently lobbying with Govt. for promotion of Millets & their inclusion in PDS, Subsidy for practicing SA etc.

Under ICDS, AF lobbied for providing fresh cooked food for mothers and children in the Anganwadi centers.

2 Bringing on desired changes in policies and / or in the implementation procedures.

The process of Lobby & Advocacy with Govt. is in progress and as a result;

Freshly cooked food is introduced in Anganwadi centers on an experimental basis in Anantapur district.

Rainfed horticulture is taken up under MGNREGS in some select districts including Anantapur.

-

4 1 By 2012 AF Ecology Centre has :

(a) Improved gender sensitivity among staff. (b)An operational PPME in place. (c) Improved expertise in ; (i) Sust.Agrl, (ii) Alternate livelihoods devt and (iii) Training rural youth in job-oriented skills & Rehabilitating them. (d) Accounts &

Gender policy has been framed in a participatory process. Presently AF-EC has 66 staff members.

Of them 23 (35%) are women. Of the 13 new staff members recruited

during the Reporting period, 8 members (62%) are women.

Ensured equal representation of women in all CBOs and in their leadership positions, giving preference to the women for convener’s post.

Making payments related to program activities to women.

AF is working on making PPME

operational.

AF has developed a ‘change envisaged by 2016’ involving all the staff and as seen by the staff.

AF has arranged trainings on

Sustainable Agriculture, Seed Banks & Alternate livelihoods devt, to improve

-

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Finance shifted from RDT and Self – managed.

their expertise in the above areas. AF staff has also been oriented on

Clean Devt Mechanism (CDM) and Low Carbon Farming (LCF).

Accounts and finance have been

shifted from RDT office and are being self - managed by AF Ecology Center, except for FCRA and Income Tax requirements.

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2.4. What other observations did you make? Please mention any thing that may be enlightening for the progress of the project, provide case stories if any in the annexure.

Some important observations: Farmers’ preference for the usage of bio-fertilizers (Jeevamritham) and

bio-pesticides (Decoctions of locally available herbs) is increasing in vegetable crops because of the saving in investment and better yields.

The Training on ‘Zero Budget Natural Farming’ has inspired farmers to take up sustainable Agriculture practices like use of local seeds and cultivating paddy in SRI method

Women are benefitting from kitchen gardens in 2 ways 1) Nutritional security to the family and 2) Additional income from sale of vegetables.

All these observations can contribute to the achievement of AF’s development goal considerably. (please refer the case studies provided)

2.5 In case that you observed any Negative Outcome please describe.

No Negative outcome is observed.

2.6. Could any impact (Positive or Negative) be observed in the wider context of the project that might be related to the project interventions? Do those observed facts contribute to achieving the development goal?

Anantapur faced droughts for 4 consecutive years during 2008 – 2011. The last harvest the poor farmer families had, was in Dec’ 2007. This year too more than half of the poor farmer families had to face a crop failure because of scanty rainfall. During this reporting period 2,090 farmers (13% of 15,605 farmers) have grown food crops in their 1,184 ha of farm lands.

These adverse conditions are also seen by AF as a good opportunity to:

o To motivate the farmers to shift from mainstream G.R model of agriculture to Low External Input Sust. Agriculture (LEISA).

o Make the GSSs & Seed Banks work together, supply food crop seeds to farmers in time and become strong in the process.

The above trend can contribute further to the achievement of AF’s Development goal in the long run.

The wage rates in MGNREGP are good and the farm labor families are getting benefited by that. This is a very positive development that has come about in recent times. However it has its own share of negative effects - The cost of labor for already volatile agriculture has gone up heavily, because laborers are demanding wages on par with MGNREGP or even more! Though it is very good for laborers, yet small, marginal and even medium rain fed farmers are unable to afford the high cultivation costs, particularly when the yields are not guaranteed and most of them have turned into laborers in desperation!

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This is an undesirable scenario because it could contribute to the disappearance of small & marginal farmers from agriculture and force them to become labour – a downward occupational mobility! So AF’s programme is directed to strengthen small and marginal farmers with LEISA. AF is advocating that the same MGNREGS be used to enhance agri-production of small and marginal farmers.

2.7. Which methods did you use for assessing Outcome and Impact? 2.7.1 Impact Assessment:

Impact Assessment was done in a participatory methods like focused group discussions, group interviews and individual interviews, involving the target population throughout the process.

Impact assessment was done in 36 villages (About 16 % of the 230 project villages)

50 families were selected for impact assessment from each village (19 % of the average 260 families per village).

Totally, 1,800 families were selected for impact assessment (About 9 % of the 20,764 families enrolled into AF’s program).

Household survey was done for these 1,800 families to collect information for assessing the impact.

Ration cards were verified.

Data was collected from various sources like (a) School attendance registers, (b) Govt. mandal level Offices, (c) Fair price shop records (d) MGNREGP website etc.

2.7.2 Outcome Assessment:

Outcome Assessment was done in a participatory manner by having Focused Group Discussions (FGD) involving the farmers and farm laborers throughout the process.

Outcome assessment was done in all the 230 project villages.

For Outcome Assessment, the data of all the participating families was considered.

The main source of this data is the Village Activity Registers being maintained in each of the 230 villages by the STOs - Our village level staff.

Information on Outcomes was also collected from various means like (a) Random Physical Verification, (b) Interviews with farmer & farm labor families, (c) GSS records etc.

Data was also collected from various sources like (a) School attendance registers, (b) Govt. mandal level Offices, (c) Records of AF Skill Training Centers & Driving Schools etc.

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3. ACTIVITIES: Following are the main activities implemented by AF during April 2011 to September 2011: 3.1 Awareness generation on Sustainable Agriculture Promoting Sustainable Agriculture is AF’s core program. AF is campaigning, demonstrating and promoting LEISA practices and developing farming systems suitable for the harsh Agro-climatic conditions of Anantapur. AF is spreading awareness on the above activities thro’ Campaigns at Village, Mandal & District levels. AF has also started spreading awareness on the ill-effects of Climate Change and the ways for mitigation and adaptation to Climate Change. 3.1.1 Village Level Awareness Campaigns on Sustainable Agriculture. Village Level Campaigns on Sustainable Agriculture are being organized every year, in each village. The STOs facilitate the GSS and SMGs to take lead and organize these campaigns. In these campaigns awareness is created on; (a) various SA practices including Crop Diversification with millets, pulses, fruit, fodder and bio-mass yielding tree crops and (b)Integrating cattle and livestock into the farming system. Bio-fertilizers and Bio-pesticides with locally available material are prepared and demonstrated to the farmers in these campaigns. The practicing farmers share their experiences in practicing SA with other farmers. All the farmers in the village, including women are motivated to participate in these campaigns. The cost, if any, of organizing these campaigns was borne by the farmers, SMGs and GSSs themselves.

During the reporting period, 223 Village Level Campaigns (104% of the planned 214) were conducted. 8,756 women farmers (82% of the planned 10,700) attended, of whom 2,995 (34%) are from SC & ST families. 9,247 men farmers (86% of the planned 10,700) attended, of whom 3,836 (41%) are from SC & ST families.

During the present phase (2009-12), 714 Village Level Campaigns (111% of the planned 642) were conducted. 9,346 women farmers (87% of the planned 10,700) attended, of whom 3,441 (37%) are from SC & ST families. 10,102 men farmers (94% of the planned 10,700) attended of whom 3,955 (39%) are from SC & ST families.

3.1.2 Area level ecology campaigns. These campaigns were organized at Area level in each of the four operational areas of AF. Each Area consists of 50 - 65 villages. From each village 12 - 15 farmers, both men and women are mobilized to participate in these campaigns. The campaigns included exhibitions of different varieties of seeds and plants suitable to Anantapur agro-climate, medicinal plants, fodder plants, fruit plants, bio-diversity of various

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species, indigenous materials used in preparation of bio-pesticides & bio-fertilizers. Photo exhibitions of successful practices were arranged to attract farmers’ attention. Various issues such as ecology, agriculture, bio-diversity, climate change, combating droughts, rural handicrafts etc. were discussed in these campaigns. Local art-forms were performed to educate as well as to entertain people and also to appreciate local culture, which is an integral part of agriculture and environment. Mandal level government officials and elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions were also invited to participate. They educated farmers about the schemes available with their departments. It provided a direct interface with Govt. officers and first hand information to the farmers to access various Govt. schemes.

During the reporting period, one Area level Ecology Campaign and one Combat Drought and Desertification campaign were organized, during June 2011. Totally 2600 members (780 women & 1,820 men) attended these campaigns. For more details please refer to Annexures – 4 & 5. 3.2 Facilitation of CBOS

3.2.1 Individual meetings To promote Sustainable Agriculture in villages, AF staff conducted informal meetings with farmer families in SMGs, wherein they created awareness on specific SA practices suitable for them and motivated them for practice. The staff, assisted by SMG and GSS, identified the farmers interested in adopting SA practices. These farmers were educated and trained in detail to take up specific SA practices like diversified cropping and preparation of solid & liquid bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides etc. Facilitating SMGs and GSS The Karyakarthas (KKs) and STOs organized regular meetings of SMGs & GSS and discussed about implementation of various planned activities and created awareness on their benefits. Writing catchy slogans and pictorial paintings on walls was taken up in the villages to draw the attention of farmers. Selection of deserving and eligible beneficiaries for incentive based activities was a key responsibility of the SMGs and GSS. The AF staff and KKs facilitated SMGs and GSS in the selection process, following Gender & Social equity. The selected beneficiaries are the resource poor, small and marginal farmers, willing to practice LEISA/NPM practices, with preference to SC/ST and women headed families. Totally, 802 SMGs (94% of the planned SMGs in AF’s 214 project villages) have been formed covering 20,764 Small and marginal farmer and labor families. These families are represented by 10,077 women and 10,687 men. Of them 8,230 families (40% of the families covered) belong to SC & ST communities, which are represented by 4,278 women and 3,952 men.

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3.3 Trainings 3.3.1 Specific trainings on specific practices for selected farmers. Farmers taking up certain SA practices, which need technical inputs, are given activity specific trainings on the required special techniques and skills.

During the reporting period, 297 farmers (81 women + 216 men) were trained on special practices and techniques in SRI method of paddy cultivation, Integrated Farming System (IFS) and Bio-Intensive Farming System in Rainfed Areas (BIFSRA). Of them 86 (29%) are from SC & ST families.

During the present phase, 1,055 farmers (298 women + 757 men) were trained on special practices and techniques in SRI method of paddy cultivation, Integrated Farming System (IFS) and Bio-Intensive Farming System in Rainfed Areas (BIFSRA). Of them 329 (31%) are from SC & ST families.

3.3.2 Gender trainings to men and women leaders. Gender trainings are provided to both the men and women members of the GSS (4Women & 4 Men from each GSS) at cluster level, wherein women’s issues like sharing of their work load by men, domestic violence, girl child education, economic freedom, decision making in family matters, cropping choices, food and nutrition, women’s livelihoods, women health etc are being dealt with besides other relevant topical issues, if any.

During the reporting period, 27 cluster level Gender trainings (96% of the planned 28) were organized. 747 women (87% of the planned 856) attended, of whom 285 (38%) are from SC & ST families. 682 men (80% of planned 856) attended, of whom 209 (31%) are from SC & ST families.

During the present phase, 212 cluster level Gender trainings (96% of the planned 220) were organized. 839 women (98% of the planned 856) attended, of whom 342 (41%) are from SC & ST families. 762 men (89% of planned 856) attended, of whom 249 (33%) are from SC & ST families.

3.4 Promoting Sustainable Agriculture practices 3.4.1 Installation of Pest traps (Pheromone traps & Color boards). Demonstrations on effectiveness of pheromone traps and color boards are taken up to monitor the incidence of pests and to trap them mechanically before they are multiplied.

During the reporting period, 934 farmers (87% of the planned 1070) installed pheromone traps, white & yellow boards, in their 1,028 ha of farm lands (96% of planned 1070). Of them 266 farmers (28% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families with a coverage of 196 ha (19% of the area covered).

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During the present phase, 2,066 farmers (129% of the planned 1600) installed pheromone traps, white & yellow boards, in their 1,986 ha of farm lands (124% of the planned 1070). Of them 397 farmers (19% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families with a coverage of 366 ha (18% of the area covered).

3.4.2 Application of Bio-pesticides. Education and awareness is created on the ill-effects and the high investment needed for chemical pesticides. Indigenous, locally available herbs and low cost alternatives are explained to the farmers. The focus is on prevention of pest & disease incidence through usage of bio-pesticides like decoctions of local wild plants and hot spices. This activity is not budgeted and farmers are motivated to do at their own cost.

During the reporting period, 527 farmers (41% of the planned 1,284) applied various decoctions as bio-pesticides in their 588 ha of farm lands (46% of the planned 1,284). Of them 107 farmers (20% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families with a coverage of 119 ha (20% of the area covered).

During the present phase, 1,475 farmers (92% of the planned 1,600) applied various decoctions as bio-pesticides in their 1,526 ha of farm lands (95% of the planned 1,600). Of them 265 farmers (18% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families with a coverage of 228 ha (15% of the area covered).

3.4.3 Application of Bio-Fertilizers Education and awareness is created on the high costs of chemical fertilizers and their ill-effects on soil, water, food and people. AF is providing some incentives to the farmers to go in for the production and application of Jeevamrutham – An indigenous, economical, environment - friendly and highly effective concentrate bio-fertilizer. AF is demonstrating its efficiency by providing incentives to some poor farmers (marginal/SC/ST/women/rainfed) from each village to prepare and apply Jeevamrutham to their farm lands. AF is encouraging other farmers in village to prepare and apply Jeevamrutham to their farm lands at their own cost. To demonstrate the efficacy of Jeevamrutham to the farmers, AF is providing incentive to about 3 farmers from each village to purchase a local cow (The excreta of local cows is said to contain highest number of micro-organisms, that make Jeevamrutham a very high quality bio-fertilizer). AF is also supporting the farmers to establish pits for collection of cow urine and troughs for making Jeevamrutham.

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During the reporting period, 1,014 farmers (79% of the planned 1,284) applied Jeevamritam to their their 1073 ha of farm lands (84% of the planned 1284). Of them 334 farmers (33% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families with a coverage of 289 ha (27% of the area covered).

During the present phase, 2,205 farmers (at their own cost) applied Jeevamritam and other bio-fertilizers like Vermi compost, NADEP compost, FYM etc to their 1,866 ha of farm lands Of them 707 farmers (32% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families with a coverage of 523 ha (28% of the area covered).

3.5. Promoting Crop Diversity and Crop Rotation 3.5.1 Food Crops: Millets & Pulses AF is educating and advocating multiple cropping in the place of groundnut mono crop to improve soil health and ensure food and nutritional security at each household level. More and more women were mobilized to these meeting and campaigns. The crops advocated are red gram, pearl millet, sorghum, foxtail millet, field beans, cow pea, castor, etc, which can be grown as pure crop and mixed crop or intercrop with groundnut. Women are encouraged to play an important role in deciding the selection & cultivation of food crops. The Seed Banks played an important role in seed collection and distribution to promote food crops extensively.

During the reporting period, 2,090 farmers (98% of the planned 2,140) have grown the above food crops in their 1,184 ha of farm lands (111% of the planned 1,070). Of them 610 farmers (29% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families with a coverage of 317 ha (27% of the area covered).

During the present phase, 4,426 farmers (138% of the planned 3,200) have grown the above food crops in their 2,576 ha of farm lands (161% of the planned 1,600). Of them 1,023 farmers (23% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families with a coverage of 659 ha (26% of the area covered).

3.5.2 Vegetable cultivation. AF is promoting vegetable cultivation in two ways. (1) In the farm lands for income generation and crop diversity and (2) Kitchen gardens (for landless) for household food and nutritional security.

During the reporting period, 896 farmers (84% of the planned 1070) have grown

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Vegetables in their farm lands, of whom 192 (21% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families. 7,371 families (98% of planned 7490) have raised kitchen gardens around their houses, of which 3,026 families (41% of the families covered) are SC & ST families.

During the present phase, 2,160 farmers (90% of the planned 2,400) have grown Vegetables in their farm lands, of whom 502 (23% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families. 9,874 families (92% of planned 10,700) have raised kitchen gardens around their houses, of which 3,847 families (39% of the families covered) are SC & ST families.

3.5.3 Fodder cultivation. AF is organizing and facilitating the farmers to access annual fodder seed being supplied by animal husbandry department on subsidy. Perennial fodder is being raised by the farmers themselves through fodder slips.

During the reporting period, 867 farmers (81% of the planned 1070) have organized Perennial fodder plots in their 273 ha. of farm lands (128% of the planned 214). Of them 128 (15%) are from SC & ST families, with a coverage of 32 ha.

During the present phase, 3,393 farmers (106% of the planned 3,200) have organized Perennial fodder plots in their 908 ha. of farm lands (142% of the planned 640). Of them 538 (16%) are from SC & ST families, with a coverage of 127 ha.

3.6.1 Rainfed horticulture

AF- EC is campaigning for Fruit Tree Crops extensively and advocating that every rainfed farmer should have at least 30% of his land under various fruit tree crops. This is to provide some sort of safety net against the annual crop failure due to drought (which has almost become a regular phenomenon!). In these harsh conditions, tree crops will provide some assured income. AF-EC itself has not provided any incentives for tree crops, but educated and enabled farmers to access horticulture programs being implemented by RDT and Govt.

During the reporting period, 309 farmers have accessed fruit plants supplied on subsidy by RDT and from Horticulture dept and planted in their 192 ha. of dry land. Of them 120 farmers (39% of the farmers covered) are from SC/ST communities with a coverage of 68 ha (35% of the extent covered).

During the present phase, 1,038 farmers have accessed fruit plants supplied on subsidy by RDT and from Horticulture dept and planted in their 587 ha. of dry land. Of them 423 farmers (41% of the farmers covered) are from SC/ST communities with a coverage of 224 ha (38% of the extent covered).

3.7 Development of long term Tree Crop model farming systems suitable to

Anantapur Agro-Climatic Conditions.

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AF is developing three models of rainfed Farming Systems, suitable to agro-climatic conditions of Anantapur. These three farming models are aimed at creating sustainable agri-production on rainfed lands integrating annual crops, tree crops and animals, with low cost and low external inputs. Following are the three models: 3.7.1 Integrated Farming System (IFS) In this model annual crops, tree crops yielding fruit, biomass and fodder and small unit of dairy animals are all integrated in one ha. of rainfed land.

33 IFS plots have been organized by AF in its program area. The survival of fruit plants in these plots averages from 90 to 95% and that of bio-mass and fodder plants averages from 60 to 65%.This model will take 5 - 6 years to start production at an optimum level. During the reporting period, AF has introduced one local Cow in each of these plots, to enable the farmer follow SA practices like Jeevamritam. During this reporting period pot water has been organised for IFS plots.

3.7.2 Bio-intensive Farming System in Rain fed Areas (BIFSRA) This model, developed under the technical guidance of Dr. O.P.Rupela, Principal Scientist, (Retd) from ICRISAT, aims at producing adequate bio-mass on farm for mulching the land particularly during summer months, to avoid exposure to sun, rain and wind. When the soil is mulched properly the biotic life in the soil is conserved and nurtured and it does not need any additional manure. It can hold the moisture for longer periods and crop is assured under rain fed conditions.

AF has organized 8 demo plots, one each in 8 mandals of its program area. The survival of fruit plants in these plots ranges from 90 to 95% and that of bio-mass plants ranges from 60 to 65%. This model will take 4 to 5 years to yield adequate biomass for mulching the plot. During this reporting period pot water has been organised for BIFSRA plots.

3.7.3 Multiple Fruit Tree Cropping (MFTC) Plots

AF is extensively promoting Multiple Fruit Tree Crops, like Mango, Sapota, Amla, Custard Apple etc. and a lot of bio-mass yielding trees particularly with poor rainfed farmers. On an average, these MFTC plots are of about one acre size. SCs & STs are given high priority followed by small & marginal BC farmers. AF is advocating that every rainfed farmer should have at least 30% of his land under various fruit tree

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crops, which provide a safety net against the crop failures. These MFTC plots will provide adequate demonstration effect for replication by other farmers, besides providing income to the poor and socially backward farmers.

During the reporting period, no new MFTC plots were organized, but pot water has been organised for already existing MFTC plots.

During the present phase, 336 farmers (102% of the planned 330 farmers) have organized MFTC plots in their 336 acres of farm lands (102% of the planned 330 acres). Of them 192 (57% of the farmers covered) are from SC & ST families, with a coverage of 143 acres (43% of the extent covered).

3.8. Skills Development and Youth Rehabilitation Program

The objective of the program is to develop non-farm, job-oriented skills among under-educated rural youth and rehabilitate them by facilitating their access to skill-based employment for occupational diversity and occupational mobility. 3.8.1. Skill training centres The down-trend of the skill-based employment market due to falling economy in the region compelled AF to go only for ITES trade, as there was practically no demand for other trades.

During the reporting period, only one batch of ITES course was conducted in one centre. Totally 16 candidates (12 Boys & 4 Girls) were trained, of whom there are 4 youth (25%) from SC & ST communities. Of the 16 candidates trained, 8 (50%) have managed to find employment.

During the present phase, totally 55 candidates (47 Boys & 8 Girls) were trained in ITES and other courses. Of them there are 20 youth (36% - 17 Boys & 3 Girls) from SC & ST communities. Of the 55 candidates trained, 40 (73% - 35 Boys & 5 Girls) have managed to find employment.

3.8.2. Tailoring Centers

AF has established 14 tailoring centers for girls in its project area. About 25 – 30 girls are trained in each batch. The course duration is 4 months.

During the reporting period, 161 rural girls were trained in Garment making. Of them, 54 girls (34%) are from SC / ST communities.

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During the present phase, totally 1,167 rural girls were trained in Garment making of whom, 455 (39%) are from SC/ST communities. Of the 1,167 girls trained, 539 (46%) have found employment in Garment making of whom, 222 (41%) are from SC/ST communities. Of the 539 girls who have found employment; (a) 191 girls (35%) are doing piece work on contract basis and earning about Rs.2,000 - 2,500 per month on an average, (b) 93 girls (17%) are working in tailoring shops in adjacent villages and earning about Rs.1, 500 - 1,800 on an average per month and (c) 255 girls (47%) are working from their homes in the villages and earning about Rs.1,000 - 1,200 per month, when they manage to find work, mostly during festive seasons.

3.8.3 Driving schools

During the reporting period, 99 Boys were trained in light motor vehicle in Driving in 2 batches each at Anantapur and Kalyandurg Driving Schools. Of them, 75 boys (75%) belong to SC & ST communities. Of the 99 boys trained, 38 (38%) have found employment with Private employers and earning about Rs. 5,000 - 6,000 per month.

During the present phase, 374 youth (373 Boys & one girl) were trained in light motor vehicle in Driving at Anantapur and Kalyandurg Driving Schools. Of them, 215 (57%) belong to SC & ST communities. Of the 374 youth trained, 168 (45%) have found employment with private employers and earning about Rs. 5,000 - 6,000 per month.

After market study and analysis, AF has started a course on “Heavy Motor Vehicle Driving” as part of upgrading the driving school, as there is a good demand for heavy vehicle drivers. The Registration and acquiring Recognition by the Govt. Road Transport Deptt. is complete and the course will commence from October’ 2011 onwards.

3.9. Policy Advocacy at different levels

The Objectives of promoting Policy advocacy at different levels are:

To facilitate farmers’ CBOs and the farmers, to identify and debate on issues related to; (a) Govt Agriculture policies, (b) Implementation of basic services like PDS, MGNREGP, (c) Alternate non-farm livelihoods etc. and represent to the government authorities.

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To mobilize public opinion on issues concerning agriculture, rural livelihoods, farmers distress, ecology and environment, climate change etc.

To advocate for pro-poor policies with State/Central Govts, by making alliances with CBOs, NGOs & CSOs.

AF is working for pro-poor changes in two major themes, i.e. Sustainable Agriculture & Rural Employment Guarantee scheme. During the reporting period, discussions on policy change in Agriculture was taken up with farmers in Ecology day and combat desertification day celebrations. These meetings voiced the need to bring the policy changes towards eco-friendly, chemical-free agriculture and focus on rainfed agriculture which is badly neglected in the current policies. (Please refer Annexure 4 & 5)

3.10. Interventions in NABARD funded watersheds.

AF collaborated with NABARD because the objectives of its watershed program were matching with AF’s long-term objectives of sustainable development, through participatory watershed development. It is supplementary to AF’s SA program and can augment substantially to the achievement of AF’s goal. Presently, AF is working in 6 Watersheds funded by NABARD. The program is being implemented in a participatory approach. In each watershed village a Watershed Development Committee (WDC) is organized with the consensus of the whole village, ensuring adequate representation of SC, ST, women, landless and other occupational groups. WDC is formed through Gramasabha, owns the project, is responsible for planning, Implementation, monitoring and maintenance of the project. All the program-related decisions are taken and implemented by WDC. Various user groups have also been organised for promoting Income generation programmes.

The NABARD watershed program is being implemented in 1) Mallipalli, 2) Gubanapalli, 3) Papampalli, 4) Garudapuram, 5) Battuvanipalli and 6) Dasampalli villages. Totally, Rs. 69 millions has been sanctioned for this program for a period of 4 years.

During April 2011 – September 2011, AF has implemented the following activities in NABARD watersheds:

1. Soil & Moisture Conservation works - Soil Bunding of 17133 mts & Stone Bunding of 2654 mts and 58stone outlets in rainfed lands benefitting 171 farmers.

2. Gully Control works - 19 Rock Fill Dams & 35 Stone Gully Plugs benefitting 25 Farmers.

3. Water Harvesting works - 8 Farm Ponds benefitting 8 Rainfed farmers.

4. Run-off Diversion works – A Diversion Drain of 1493 running mts long in a hillock.

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5. Plantation works – (a) Fruit plants in 223 acres of dry lands benefitting 74 rainfed farmers, (b) Block plantation in 20 acres of temple land (common property resource) and avenue plantation of 2 km, (c) Bio-mass yielding Plants (Bund Plantations) in 300 Acs of rainfed lands, benefitting 200 farmers.

6. Agricultural Productivity Enhancement – Groundnut seed and Fodder Grass seed worth Rs 68,169/- were supplied to 8 farmers.

7. Livelihood Support – An amount of Rs. 1,791,300 was provided to watershed committees to provide credit for 240 families for developing various non-farm livelihoods and Entrepreneurship @ Rs. 10,000 – 12,000 per family.

All the above activities were taken up in a very participatory and transparent manner and the details of all activities & payments are clearly displayed on the walls in prominent places in the villages.

Farmers’ Clubs are functioning in all the 6 watershed villages with a membership of 12-14 farmers. Their Objective is “ To access technical knowledge and awareness on the latest developments in the field of agriculture from various sources, disseminate the knowledge among all the other farmers in the village, motivate them to use knowledge for enhancing agricultural productivity and other activities for the development of the village ”. 3.11 Interventions in IWMP watersheds

The State Govt has sanctioned 2 mega watersheds to AF under its Integrated Watershed Management Program (IWMP), thanks to AF’s experience, expertise and reputation in implementing Govt Watershed Programs in the past.

Muttala mega watershed was sanctioned under 2009-10 batch. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) prepared by AF has been approved and the implementation of activities have started from April’ 2011. The total Project period is 7 years, of which 5 years is for the implementation of activities and the last 2 years is for Monitoring & Evaluation of Impacts. The total financial outlay of the project is Rs. 30.42 millions.

This watershed covers 4 villages. It covers 1,013 families, of which there are 114 SC families (11%) and 182 ST families (18%). It has totally 2,535 ha. of farm land of which 2,304 ha.(91%) is Rainfed dry land and the remaining 231 ha.(9%) is Irrigated land under Bore wells.

The activities taken up can be broadly categorized as; (a) Natural Resource Management Activities, (b) Productivity Enhancement Activities and (c) Livelihoods Promotion Activities. 50% of the project funds are allocated for NRM activities under which Soil & Moisture Conservation, Rain Water Harvesting, Dry Land Horticulture, Farm Forestry, Fodder development, Animal Husbandry

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works will be implemented. 13% of the funds are allocated for PE activities under which loans are provided for the purchase of Agri-Implements, Bullock Carts, Seed etc. 10% of the funds are allocated for the poor and landless Livelihood activities under which various Off-farm & Non-farm livelihoods are promoted. Establishment of Safe Drinking Water Plant has been sanctioned as an Entry Point Activity.

Watershed offices were opened in each village and watershed information and maps are displayed. Each micro watershed has a Karyakartha, selected by the WDC, whose role includes; conducting User Group & Labor Group meetings, verifying Muster Rolls and monitoring the quality of works during implementation. During April 2011 – September 2011, AF has implemented the following activities in IWMP watersheds:

Soil & Moisture Conservation works (Gully Control works) - 117 Rock fill dams were constructed in rainfed lands benefitting to 140 farmers.

Water Harvesting works – 1 dugout Pond benefitting to 1 Rainfed farmer.

Run-off Diversion works – Water absorption trench of 6000 cubic meters

27150 person days of employment was generated from the above activities during this reporting period benefitting 723 families. Each labour has earned an average amount of Rs 150/- per day. The total amount spent on wages during this reporting period is Rs 4,061,000.

AF has successfully lobbied with IWMP authorities for including boulder removal works in SC & ST assigned lands and implementing Dry land Horticulture in other caste farmers lands.

Bandameedipalli mega watershed has been sanctioned under 2010-11 batch. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) was prepared in September’2011. The financial outlay of the project is Rs. 59 millions. This watershed covers 4 villages or micro watersheds. It has 1,208 families, of which there are 227 SC families (19%) and 52 ST families (4%). It has totally 4,945 ha. of farm land of which 4,389 ha.(89%) is Rainfed dry land and the remaining 556 ha.(11%) is Irrigated land under Bore wells.

A Watershed Computer Centre (WCC) has been set up at AF office, as per the guidelines of IWMP to effect On-line payments to the beneficiaries.

3.12 E&E Coalition Program

During April 2011 – September 2011, three E &E coalition meetings were held during April 2011, May 2011 and Sept’ 2011. Mr. Khaleel, Mr. Bhemappa and Ms. Rizwana have attended these meetings from Accion Fraterna. Mr. Pradeep Esteves, Kalamani and Ms. Satya Sree facilitated these meetings. The main agenda discussed includes;

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1. Experience sharing of partners 2. Reflection on the E & E programs. 3. Developing Baseline Indicators 4. Governance issues of the coalition 5. Future strategy for E & E coalition 6. Action plan

During this period the coalition decided to 1. evolve a EnE standard for CBO structure and functioning and 2. Studying, sharing, disseminating and developing strategies on various

researches (Education & Land rights study) and take up other lobby issues.

The researches planned during this period were a) Developing CBO standards & practices – ADATS & FCN b) Land rights – Lalitha, NFDLRM c) Right to Education – Janasahayog d) Pro poor agri policies – Accion Fraterna

The legal holder ship and coordination of the E & E coalition has shifted from Timbaktu Collective to REDS, Tumkur. A reflection and planning meeting will be held in November 2011.

3.13 Food and Water Security Coalition Program

AF has been playing an important role in strengthening the food and water security coalition being the member of steering committee. The coalition has been involved in planning the next phase of its programme.

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4. CHANGES IN THE ORGANIZATION: 4.1.1 Related to Climate change (LCF):

AF has been piloting the Low Carbon Farming project to help Anantapur farmers especially rainfed farmers to generate income through carbon credits in agriculture. AF – EC is one among the 5 network members who have taken up this pilot LCF programme. During this reporting period, AF has made preperations to take up LCF in paddy crop in 1315 acres belonging to 838 farmers from 55 villages. All the activities included in the process like farmer selection, plot selection, baseline survey, recording global coordinates, Uploading in the polygon recorder Software, Creating shape maps, verification of plots, maintaining farmer diary, collecting photographs and copy of land entitlement, entering data in software and finally committing the plots were completed for all the above mentioned plots. The Data of 5 Mainstream control plots was also maintained during this period. AF has established a paddy reference plot in Raminepalli village to measure green house gas emissions. The different reference plots were SRI plot, Nutrient management plot and Mainstream plot. A lab is established in AF campus with all equipment for measuring emissions from reference plots. However the lab could not capture kharif crop emissions. The lab is now functional with one research Assistant and two lab assistants appointed to collect samples of GHG emissions and analyze in the laboratory. The experiments now have to be carried out in Rabi season. AF is preparing the farmers for experimenting with Groundnut and Paddy crops. We have to wait up to March 2012 to see the results of the pilot project. We are only optimistic, but not aware of project potential.

4.1.2 PLANS & BUDGET REVISED:

AF had changed strategy to implement the program with reduced no of target families for better focus in work. (For more details, plz refer to the previous report). So AF-EC has started implementing its SA Program from April 2011, with about 100 select families in each of its program villages. However, AF-EC is also working towards creating awareness for the whole village (About 250 - 270 families). So as per changed strategy, the plans and the budget of the “Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Livelihood Program – 2009 -12” were revised and got approved.

4.2 Related to Staff Composition:

There was some staff turnover during the Reporting period. The Present total number of staff is 66. Following is the brief summary:

Totally, 9 staff members (2 AOs + 4 STOs + 1 Driving school principal + 2 accountants) resigned for their posts, for personal reasons.

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Totally, 13 staff members (5 STOs + 1 ATL + 1 AO + 1 Computer operator + 1 Engg. Supervisor+ 1 Senior Associate, PME + 1 Driving Instructor + 2 LCF Lab Assistants) have newly joined the organization.

Of the newly recruited 13 members, 8 are Women. The strength of women staff has increased from 18 to 23. Presently, AF has 35% women staff (23 out of 66)

AF has selected village Karyakartas (volunteers) from each of the project villages. These KK’s are being paid monthly performance-based incentives. KK’s facilitate the SMGs, GSSs and regular project activities like organizing meetings, Farmer Field schools and follow up of other activities in the village. They will also be helpful in future for management and monitoring of Biogas project under CDM and Low Carbon Farming Project as they are based in the concerned villages and can provide a much closer monitoring and follow up at each farmer and community level.

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5. Change in Development Context and Problem Analysis.

5.1 Are there important changes in the direct Political Environment since the inception of the project?

The political situation in Anantapur district is quite normal and peaceful. The tenure of village panchayats has expired by end Sept’ 2011 and now the special officers of Revenue department are fulfilling the responsibilities of the village presidents (Sarpanches) in 996 village panchayats in the District. The implementation of Govt Schemes and village developmental activities would continue with the special officers.

5.2 Are there important changes in the Direct Social Environment since the inception of the project? This year there were prolonged dry spells during July and September resulting in delayed sowings and thus reduction in the extent of Groundnut crop. This has resulted in extensive crop loss and has caused severe drought conditions across the district. The yields in groundnut and other crops are expected to go down drastically. Consequently the farmer and farm labor are expected to be left with low / no income from agriculture and their socio-economic conditions will deteriorate further with increasing levels of indebtedness. The acute scarcity of fodder might lead to distress sale of cattle and small ruminants. Severe seed scarcity is expected for the coming Rabi and kharif 2012 seasons. During August and September 2011, distress migration has started taking place in some villages and it is expected to go up in the coming months as MGNREGS works were stopped in cropping season. Since the media gave large publicity about distress migration, the Govt Authorities are now planning to re-start the land development and plantations work to create employment in these villages and stop migration. Employment under MGNREGS is a major source of income for more than 70% farmer and farm labor families in AFs project area. Govt has announced crop insurance for the year 2009-10 but not yet distributed to the farmers. About 30% of the 63 mandals of Anantapur have been brought under insurance coverage and all the 8 mandals of AF’s project area have been covered. Govt also announced that input subsidy will be given to farmers who are not covered by crop insurance scheme. The price hike of food grains, Groceries, fuel costs, electricity charges and indiscriminate power cuts have adversely affected the lives of farmer and farm labor families. The expected low income from agriculture and the inadequate MGNREGS works has a telling impact on the social fabric of the rural families in Anantapur district. Many families could not celebrate festivals, marriages, functions etc because of low bargaining capacity due to continuous droughts year after year.

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5.3 Are there important changes in the Direct Natural Environment since the inception of the project?

The manifestation of Climate Change has begun to appear in the form of an erratic and unpredictable monsoon pattern. The usual dry spell in August has shifted to September causing tremendous crop losses during kharif 2011. The South West monsoons were very unfavorable during June- September 2011 resulting in low and erratic rainfall (271.2 mm against 338.5 mm normal rainfall). Consequently the sowing of groundnut was delayed by one month (from last week of July to 3rd week of August) due to untimely rains which is quite abnormal in Anantapur district. Groundnut crop was sown only in 70% of the Groundnut cultivable area. Only about 10% of the area was sown in June and about 5% land was sown with alternate crops like castor and red gram during July and August 2011. About 15% land was kept fallow as many farmers could not sow because of seed scarcity, lack of crop investment and untimely rains. The following table shows the rainfall pattern during the reporting period.

PRE- MONSOON SOUTH-WEST MONSOON Total

April May June July August Sept.

Normal

mm

Actual

mm

Normal

mm

Actual

mm

Normal

mm

Actual

mm

Normal

mm

Actual

mm

Normal

mm

Actual

mm

Normal

mm

Actual

mm

Normal

mm

Actual

mm

12 50.4 40 51.8 64 46.9 67.4 85.2 88.7 113 118.4 26.1 390.5 373.4

There was also considerable variance in day temperatures during the monsoon months (June – September 2011) which affected the growth of the crops besides increase in pest and disease infestation. During September, the day temperature was as high as 38 degree celsius (normal is 33 degree celsius) and the rainfall was extremely low @ 26.1 mm (normal is 118.4 mm). This resulted in excessive wilting of the standing groundnut crop and the yields are expected to reduce drastically. The alternate crops might give some yields if conducive weather conditions continue till the harvest. The prevailing weather conditions are not very favorable for sowing of Rabi crops as well. The ground water levels are going down and some wells have already begun to dry up. The fodder availability might go down heavily because of low grass cover and bio-mass in rain fed lands, hillocks and waste lands, which may lead to the highly undesirable distress sale of cattle to slaughter houses.

5.4 Do those changes have implications for the relevance of the project?

The combined effect of continuous Crop failures, ill-effects of Climate Change and escalation of food prices has further increased the relevance of AF’s Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Livelihoods Program (SARLP). This year also there is going to be a severe drought. The majority of farmers have invested on external inputs like chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which is going to add to their indebtedness as a total crop failure is being expected. Now the farmers slowly understand the adverse effects of climate change on cropping pattern and crop yields. The farmers are being forced to bring back the age-old and cost-effective sustainable agriculture practices

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to mitigate the dwindling agrarian based rural economy. AF is now strategically better positioned to focus and work with the target population and effectively implement the sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods program. It is strengthening its CBOs viz SMG, GSS at Village level and MSS at Mandal level, with the purpose of involving them in lobby and advocacy work to mobilize / access resources from Govt and other agencies to combat the impact of the recurring droughts. AF has also intensified its work in lobby and advocacy to influence Govt @ District, State and National levels for pro-poor and pro-farmer policies. It is also extending cooperation for the proper implementation of the Govt pro-poor programs / schemes at the grass root level. The above changes coupled with the initiatives taken by AF, have definite implications for the relevance of the project as AF has been changing its strategies and priorities from time to time based on the changing scenarios.

5.5. Do those changes have implications for the project goal?

The above changes and their consequences have reconfirmed the relevance of the project goal. Recurring droughts and high investment mainstream agriculture have been posing continuous challenges to AF. The inappropriate agriculture policies regarding subsidies and supply of inputs have also contributed to the distress of the target families. Even though Govt has come up with useful schemes / programs, there are many bottlenecks at various levels in Govt administration. The prevailing situation has provided AF with a good opportunity to work with the target families in accessing / mobilizing resources from available sources, especially Govt. AF has been reinforcing its efforts towards its project goal of achieving sustainable development of its target families by strengthening the existing CBO structure (SMG, GSS & MSS).

5.6. Do those changes have implications for the project objective?

The changes in social and natural environment during the past six months are very conducive for AF to make brisk progress towards achieving its objectives of; (a) Promotion of sustainable agriculture and (b) Promotion of alternate livelihoods for rural women and youth. The Department of Rural Development is also gradually shifting its focus from chemical intensive to low external input farming through its programs like Community Managed Sustainable Agriculture (CMSA). AF has been demonstrating replicable practices, which have been proved on ground in project villages and drawing attention of the Govt Departments and Research Institutes in promoting sustainable agriculture practices. AF is also experimenting with replicable farming systems in rainfed areas. AF is building strong base in rural areas with village level CBOs (SMGs, GSS & MSS) comprised of farmers and farm labor with 50% women representation in order to promote sustainable agriculture and also to access various resources from Govt and other agencies. These CBO networks will also be involved in policy advocacy and lobbying at district level. AF has also collaborations with Research Agencies, Scientists and using their knowledge and support in this endeavor. The crop failures due to inadequate and erratic rains during the last kharif season made farmers to think about the changes that are to be

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adopted in rain fed agriculture. Now AF has better opportunity to bring in more farmers in sustainable agriculture program. 5.7. Is the underlying problem analysis of the project still valid?

The problem analysis of the project is more valid and more relevant now, particularly in these constantly changing agro-climatic conditions in AF’s project villages. To add further to the problem analysis, the abnormally high temperature variations increase the risks and uncertainty of Groundnut and other rainfed crop yields and pose yet another challenge. AF has been striving hard to develop appropriate cropping systems and practices for rainfed agriculture that suit well to Anantapur agro-climatic conditions. AF has been associated with farmer and farm labor families for more than 26 years and has varied experiences of many unpredictable weather conditions which have affected farmers’ socio-economic conditions, year after year. Based on the problem analysis done from time to time, AF has been conducting many types of experiments in order to make the agriculture sustainable and beneficial to the farmers. The Agro-climatic conditions during the reporting period reinforced that the problem analysis made by AF is further more valid and indicate the need to intensify AF’s work on sustainable agriculture and diversification of livelihoods.

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CASE STUDIES

1. Case study on Impact of Jeevamritham in Chilli crop Mr. Adinarayana Reddy s/o Madhava Reddy is a young farmer in Sanapa village of Atmakur mandal. He has 2.4 acres of land under bore well irrigation. Though Adinarayana reddy is hardworking farmer, he could not make sufficient income from Agriculture to meet his family expenditure. The cost of cultivation has gone up because of high use of pesticides to control pest and diseases. Also the costs of chemical fertilizers and pesticides have gone up along with labour hire charges. In Kharif season 2011, Adinarayana Reddy has cultivated chilli crop in 1 acre of land. In the first three months of the crop, he has used chemical fertilizers and pesticides in high quantities as usual. Though he sprayed chemical pesticides continuously the attack of spodoptera was very high. Unable to bear the expenses he got frustrated and he himself destroyed the crop in ½ acre. He was also thinking of removing the crop in remaining land when he met AF staff. He explained the situation to the staff and discussed the reasons. Upon the advice of the AF staff, he decided to follow SA practices in the remaining ½ acre. He prepared Jeevamritham and applied to the soil regularly every week. Also he sprayed Jeevamritham twice on the crop. Surprisingly all the plants have responded well and grew very healthily. The pest has disappeared. The yield from the land in last 3 months was very good when compared to first 3 months. Though the price of chilli had reduced he made good profit because of high yields. Comparison of expenditure and yields in both methods In Conventional methods in first 3 months for 1 acre

Expenditure (Rs) Income (Rs) Chemical fertilizer 4000 First Harvest (600 kg x Rs 9.60) 5760 Chemical pesticides and sprays 6000 Second Harvest (650 kg x Rs 9.60) 6240 Labour costs 2000

Total 12000 Total 12000 In Sustainable Agriculture method in ½ acre in next 3 months

Expenditure (Rs) Income (Rs) Jeevamritham preparation 600 Third Harvest (700 kg x Rs 8.40) 5760 Jeevamritham application 400 Fourth Harvest (750 kg x Rs 8.40) 6240 Labour costs 3600 Fifth Harvest (900 kg x Rs 8.40) 7560

Total 4600 Total 19740

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After this experience Mr.Adinarayana reddy is fully convinced about the efficiency of Sustainable Agriculture. He has started growing tomatoes in ½ acre in SA method. “I will never use chemical fertilizer and pesticides,” says Adinarayana Reddy emphatically. 2. Case study on Influence of ZBNF Training (Basmati – SRI): My name is Bangaru pothalaiah. I live in thopudurthi village of Atmakur mandal. I have 7 acres of cultivable land and a bore well which irrigate part of my land. My wife Nagalaxmi and two daughters help me in agricultural works. I also have two bullocks and a local breed cow which helps me in completing agricultural operations in time. In the last 10 years the investments in agriculture have shot up like anything. The investments kept on increasing while the yields were decreasing every year. My debts increased year after year and I left 4 acres of my land fallow as I could not raise sufficient money for investment. I was so frustrated and wanted to leave farming forever. At this time I have attended Subhash palekar’s workshop on Zero budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) organized by AF - EC. I am very much inspired by the teaching of subhash palekar that agriculture can be done without any cost. I understood that Green Revolution model of agriculture is not in benefit of the farmer and Farmer has to take care of soil by mulching, Jeevamrtham application and proper aeration. Soil is Annapurna (rich in nutrients) and it doesn’t require anything from outside. I resolved to do Zero budget Natural Farming. In Kharif 2011, I started the experiment in ½ acre. I have cultivated Basmati paddy in SRI method with a traditional seed variety. I have never used any chemical fertilizer or pesticide. I applied only Jeevamrutham as per protocol. To my astonishment, the crop grew very well; there was no pest or disease attack. Though I could not give proper Irrigation due to power cut problem the yields were very good. All my neighbours are surprised and praised me for growing gold.

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The Economics of the crop is as below:

Expenditure Income Seed – 2kg 200 22 quintals x Rs 4000 8800 Nursery (own labour) 1000 Fodder 1200 Transplantation 600 Weeding with weeder (own) 1000 Jeevamritham (6 times) 1000 Buttermilk spray (own) 200 Harvesting costs 1000 5000 10000 I will practice Natural Farming in my remaining land also. I will also motivate my neighbours to try Natural Farming practices and reduce cost of cultivation.

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3. Case study of Earning Income through selling vegetables from

Kitchen Garden

My name is Lingamma. I live in Muddalapuram village in Kuderu mandal. My husband had passed away few years back. I have a daughter and a son. After my husband had died, we have stopped cultivating our land as Iam unable to raise investment. We have left the land fallow. Earlier we used to grow plenty of vegetables in our farm along with Groundnut crop. So we used to give good nutrition to our children. Now it is not the case as I earn my livelihood by labour work. AF is actively working in my village and I have taken membership in the labour group formed by AF. They have supplied Vegetable seeds and encouraged me to grow vegetables in Back yard of my house. So I started raising kitchen garden with 10 varieties of vegetables. I watered them by carrying water from nearby bore well and also applied Jeevamritam now and then. Within 6 months, I have got plenty of vegetables and greens which I started sharing with my neighbours. My son had suggested me to try selling vegetables. I tried and found that it is very profitable to sell vegetables. I have decided to make living out of it.

I have improved my kitchen garden further and started selling vegetables in

surrounding villages. I earn more than Rs 2000/- per month from vegetables grown from my kitchen garden. My children eat more vegetables now. I preserve seeds and share them with my neighbours. Now I live happily with dignity.

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ANNEXURE – 1

Zero Budget Natural Farming – An alternative to HEIDA Accion Fraterna (AF) has been passionately working towards bringing a paradigm shift in agriculture from HEIDA (High External Input Destructive Agriculture) to LEISA (Low External Input Sustainable Agriculture). To increase awareness on LEISA among farmers of Anantapur district, AF had organized a training program on Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF).

This 4 day training program for farmers was organized by Accion Fraterna and Timbaktu Collective on ‘Zero budget Natural Farming’ during April 25 - 28, 2011. Mr. Subhash palekar, a renowned expert in Natural Farming from Maharastra was the resource person. The training was organized at MGR functional hall in Anantapur town. About 720 farmers (170 women and 550 men) have attended the meeting from all over the district and state. The participants from AF project villages were mainly karyakarthas, convenors and co-convenors of Sasya Mitra Groups (SMG) and Grama Sasyamitra Samakyas (GSS). Mr. Palekar discussed with farmers about evolution of agriculture and the present day agriculture crisis. He explained the changes that had taken place in Indian Agriculture after the Government had started promoting the Green Revolution since 1960’s. The Green revolution model of agriculture had ruined the Indian farmer. Most of the knowledge, technology and inputs of this Green Revolution model are not indigenous. The investments in agriculture went on increasing whereas the yields had constantly decreased which pushed the farmers into debt trap. Excessive use of chemicals has polluted water, soil and environment. The modern agriculture has become cost intensive and the soil has become unproductive because of indiscriminate use of chemicals. The mono cropping and mechanization of farm equipment have affected the cattle population which again led to infertile soils. In this backdrop, to overcome crisis in Agriculture and to ensure survival of small farmer, the only solution is ‘Zero budget Natural Farming’ (ZBNF). Defination of Natural Farming: If all the requirements of the crop are taken care by nature itself with very little intervention of farmer, then it is called natural farming (or) Creating an atmosphere where all needs of the crop are taken care by the nature is called natural farming. According to Mr.Palekar soil is Annapurna (rich in nutrients) and Plants do not need any external inputs if soil fertility is taken care of. ZBNF builds humus in the soil and improves soil fertility.

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The 4 important principles of ZBNF are:

1. Jeevamritam 2. Beejamritam 3. Mulching 4. Waphsa (aeration) 1. Jeevamritam: Jeevamritam is a culture

which enhances microbial activity in soil and thereby improves soil fertility and makes crops healthy. It is prepared using local cow dung, cow urine, Jaggery and pulses flour. It improves local earthworm activity. If used regularly as per protocol it replaces chemical pests and fertilizers efficiently.

2. Beejamritam: Beejamritam is a seed treatment solution prepared using local cow urine, cow dung and lime. It is an anti bacterial medicine and best fungicide.

3. Mulching: Mulching is a practice of covering the soil with organic matter, so that it does not get exposed to direct sunlight, wind and rain. It creates and conserves a micro climate required for the growth of micro organisms. It protects soil from sun and soil moisture is retained for longer time. If proper mulching is done for 3-5 years continuously, there is no need of applying any fertilizer. All the crop and animal residue should go back to the soil for mulching. The different types of mulching are a) soil mulching, b) straw mulching and c) Live mulching.

4. Waphsa: Excessive irrigation is detrimental for growth of crops. The air voids in soil should have a mixture of 50% air and 50% moisture, for the root system to be able to absorb water vapour from the soil. This is called waphsa.

The other important aspects covered were: Importance of retaining local seed: Local

seeds are better resistant to pests and diseases than hybrid seeds in natural farming

Nutrients in soil: Local Earth worms mine the nutrients available underneath soil and make them available to plants. Different nutrient cycles discussed

Benefits of Mulching: It protects soil from exposing to direct sunlight and air.

Importance of Indian breed cows in Natural farming: Types of Indian cow breeds and their benefits. Exotic breeds are not suitable for Natural Farming.

Importance of cow urine and cow dung in Natural Farming Preparation of Jeevamritam and Beejamritam Application and use beejamritam and jeevamritam on different crops Preparation of different Bio pesticide solutions using locally available material

without any cost. Application methods on different crops and benefits. Rainfed Horticulture model for Anantapur district. 36’ x 36’ model for kitchen Gardens ZBNF in different crops like Groundnut, Paddy, Jowar

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All the methods and techniques discussed were very practical and useful to our farmer members. They are cost effective and nature friendly. The participant farmers were very attentive and learned many Sustainable Agriculture practices in this training.

The training was organized very well. Simple lodging and boarding facilities were provided for all the participants at the venue itself. Most of the farmers have stayed all the four days and followed Mr. Palekar’s subject with enthusiasm. All the topics covered were very relevant to the work of Accion Fraterna. The question and answer session was conducted on the last day of the training in which Mr. Palekar had clarified the queries of the farmers. This training was really helpful in taking forward sustainable agriculture which will help in combating drought in Anantapur district.

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ANNEXURE – 2

Training on Social Business, Civic Driven Change and Social Return on Investment

The NGO sector is going through a phenomenal change during the last few years. The whole development sector is undergoing a metamorphosis. The whole development sector is undergoing a metamorphosis. The current emerging paradigm shift in the development sector is to look at social business as an important tool to achieve the development goalsAs a leader in this sector; Accion Fraterna is always keen to explore new emerging ideas for achieving its goals. As part of this exploration, AF has organized training on Social Business, Civic Driven Change and Social Return On Investment. This three day training was jointly organized by Accion Fraterna Ecology centre and context International cooperation, Netherlands, from 13.09.2011 to 15.09.2011 at AF Ecology centre, Anantapur. About 30 participants from India, Srilanka and Netherlands have attended the training. The resource persons were Fons van der velden, Udan Fernando and Pradeep Esteves from Context, International cooperation, Netherlands and Satyasree Goswami from Foresee social entrepreneurs, Bangalore. The purpose of the training was to develop a clear (conceptual) understanding about a social business approach to change process and development and application of Social business in real life. The topics covered in the training in 3 days respectively were

1. Social Business: why, what, what difference and challenges 2. Civic driven change 3. Social Return on Investment

The training methods adopted were brain storming, role play, Group dynamics, small group discussion, participatory plenary discussions and presentation. A role play of social business bazaar was conducted with participants forming into groups of different stakeholders in social business like Entrepreneur, Government officials, Customers, Social Investors. An exposure visit was organized to a social business enterprise. Day 1: Social Business The first day of the training dealt with the concept of social business in detail. The definition, characteristics and purpose of social business were discussed. A social business is a business that seeks, above all, to make a better world – a business for a common good. (Or) It is a business with a social cause, whose surpluses are principally reinvested. Social business is inevitable because charity is not sustainable (Grant era is almost over) and Earning with self esteem is better than charity.

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Ten characteristics of social business discussed in the training are:

1. Primary purpose of social business is change (emphasis is on maximizing impact)

2. Through the market 3. Financial sustainability 4. Multi actor environments 5. Social entrepreneurs 6. Social Investor 7. Social Accountability 8. Citizen Involvement 9. Innovation 10. Lobby & Advocacy

Day 2: Civic Driven Change On the second day Mr. Udan dealt the topic of civic driven change with real life case studies and stories. Also the relevance of CDC for social business and its practices were discussed. Civic driven change is a novel way to see / understand change. It is a set of ideas, thinking and debates about change process led by citizens. The important characteristics of CDC are 1) Rights and right to have rights, 2) Citizenship 3) Democracy 4) Civic agency and action and 5) Power sensitivity. The CDC Practices are Co creating, Organizing (not mobilizing), it happens at different levels and there is role of outsiders in CDC. Day 3: Social Return on Investment On the third and final day of training Mr. Pradeep had introduced Social Return on Investment and its importance for social business. A role play involving different stake holders of Social business was conducted to understand SROI. SROI is an approach for measurement of the value of what has changed. It looks at change from economic, social and environmental perspectives. It includes perception of stake holders and strengthens ownership. It attaches financial value to what goes into the project and what comes out of the project. An exposure visit was organized to Dharani Farmers cooperative, a cooperative owned by farmer members. The participants had a nice opportunity to understand the real social business. The training gave a very practical understanding of the concept and practice of social business. It also analyzed the importance of social business in developing country like India. The training was followed by a seminar on social business in which the ways for taking forward the concept and practice of social business were explored.

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ANNEXURE – 3

Generating a framework for strategic improvement and adoption of superior dual‐purpose (groundnut) cultivars in mixed crop livestock systems in drought prone areas

Final Technical Report ‐ Accion Fraterna 

1. The relevance of the project

Agro climatic conditions of Anantapur District: Anantapur is the second most drought-prone semi-arid district in India, located in southern Andhra Pradesh, in South India. Anantapur receives the least rainfall in the state of Andhra Pradesh and second lowest in India, averaging at 522 mm annually. Whereas its potential evapo-transpiration is 1850 mm. It is the parched and poorest district in South India declared as desert-prone by Central Government. Farmers are largely dependent on drought-prone, rain fed agriculture. Mostly a single crop of groundnut is sown under such harsh agro climatic conditions. Of its total geographical area of about 1.9 million hectares, about 1.1 million hectares is under cultivation. Of the cultivable area of 1.1million hectares, about one million hectares is cultivated under rain fed conditions. Mono crop of groundnut under rain fed conditions is cultivated in about 0.8 million hectares of farmlands.

Type of Soils The soils are predominantly red gravelly shallow soils with poor moisture retention. The shallow soils with low organic matter add to the problem with their poor moisture holding capacity and poor fertility levels. Because of the pervading mono-cropping practices not only are the soils continuously impoverished but also the pest and disease build up becomes quite acute. Soil erosion, declining soil fertility, low soil organic matter and diminished water holding capacity have affected the farm yields and increased the instability in crop production.

Lack of forest cover and vegetation across the district and soils exposed to sun and wind render the district poor in natural resources. There is quite a large livestock population, which is nondescript and very poor in productivity. Over the years, the sources of both animal fodder and organic manures have diminished.

Effects of Climate change and Mono-Cropping The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly visible since the last two decades in Anantapur district. The timing of monsoons has been badly affected. The duration of dry-spells has increased. The hazardous mono-cropping of groundnut rampant in the district has produced its highly undesirable impact in the form of severe outbreaks of pests and diseases in the groundnut crop. The existing varieties of groundnut are unable to cope up with these prolonged dry spells and the pest and disease attacks. So, there is an immediate need for some improved variety of groundnut, which can effectively withstand prolonged dry spells and the pest and disease attacks, to provide some relief to the drought-hit farmers, who are facing continuous crop failures at an alarming rate of 7 years in a decade.

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Totally, there are about 600,000 farmer families in Anantapur District. Of them, 90% are small and marginal farmers. All of them are part cultivators and part agricultural labourers. It is obvious that they are the worst hit by the recurring droughts. So an improved variety of groundnut, which can produce reasonable yields under the harsh agro-climatic conditions of Anantapur, is the need of the hour and ICRISAT came to the rescue of Accion Fraterna Ecology Centre, Anantapur in this dire situation.

2. Collaboration with ICRISAT for IFAD programme During the year 2002 an IFAD project came into existence; ICRISAT was the implementing agency in collaboration with universities, NGOs etc. In Anantapur the Agriculture Research Station (ARS) and Accion Fraterna – Ecology Centre were collaborating institutions.Dr. S.N. Nigam was the coordinator between partners and IFAD.

Dr. Nigam visited Anantapur along with a team of scientist from ICRISAT, meetings were organized in two villages i.e. in Rekulakunta village wherein ARS was working and in Danduvaripalle which was in Accion Fraterna's operational area.

The IFAD project had various components; AF's focus was on introduction good high yielding groundnut variety, which is suitable to Anantapur conditions. At this juncture, Dr. Nigam promised to provide one groundnut variety which is suitable to Anantapur conditions. This groundnut variety should be able, to withstand frequent dry spells, and rejuvenate after receipt of rains.

3. The selection of ICVG 91114 Dr. Nigam provided ten groundnut varieties, which were developed at ICRISAT. Along with these ten varieties two local varieties were also chosen to make a comparative study. During the 2002 rainy season these varieties were sown by involving the farmers. The observations like height of the plants, days to flowering, number of branches, colour and size of leaves, duration of crop etc. were recorded in a participatory manner. Before harvesting the crop, all the participating farmers were invited and were asked to select plants from the 12 varieties and do the comparison by themselves considering the good traits of each variety. Among all the twelve varieties, the participatory farmers have preferred two varieties. The farmers considered the suitable traits like height of the plant, number of branches, thickness, size of the leaves, coming to flowering one time and maturing of plants one time, the number of pods and the size of pods influenced farmers during the selection. The two selected varieties were ICGV 91114 and ICGV 8104. These two varieties were then further tested in West Nursapuram village of Singanamala mandal during the 2003 rainy season with the participating farmers. During 2003, ICGV 91114 and 8104 were tried with five farmers planting one acre each. The participating farmers and other farmers preferred ICGV91114 and while rejecting ICGV8104 as they saw no difference to the local variety i.e. TMV 2. A young progressive participatory farmer Mr. Sreenivasulu Reddy identified the good traits of ICGV91114. Also, the

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watershed committee member Mrs. Shyamala expressed how much she was impressed by this variety though she was not a participating farmer, but she had been involved in evaluation of the groundnut varieties. ICGV 91114 groundnut is high yielding, matures in 90-95 days in the rainy season and has the capacity to tolerate mid-season and terminal drought. Its average shelling turnover is 75 % with oil content48 % and protein content 27 %. Furthermore, its haulms are an excellent fodder for livestock having better palatability and digestibility coefficients.

During the 2003 post rainy season she took up seed multiplication under bore well irrigation which had recently been established. Several bore wells had been drilled in the village, mainly irrigatiing citrus orchards. The villagers saw the growth and performance of ICGV 91114 and were very much impressed.The seed multiplied by Mrs. Shyamala was distributed to other farmers of the village. In addition to this, Dr. Nigam also provided two tons of breeder seed for distribution.

The seed obtained from the 2004 rainy season was also distributed among the farmers and some quantity spread to other villages as seed was provided by participating farmers to their relatives and friends. AF also received two tons of seed from ICRISAT and distributed this to other villages including Sivapuram village in Kanaganapalle mandal and some villages in Kalyandurg area. The area under ICGV 91114 swelled to 700 acres in the 2005 rainy season from 5 acres in 2003 rainy season.

4. The development of ICGV91114 dissemination From 2005, the area under ICGV is increasing constantly. In the 2009 rainy season, it was planned to cover 50,000 acres with ICGV 91114 but due to external factors, mainly drought, the area covered achieved only 40% to 45% of this plan. Much of the seed had gone for consumption and to market; it was not possible to keep the seed for the next season as there is there is a looming threat of storage pest.

Accion Fraterna is conducting regular awareness campaigns and meetings on sustainable agriculture, which includes introduction of high yielding varieties of groundnut. The staff made efforts to take up seed production and distribution of the groundnut seed in informal way. AF motivated farmers to take up seed multiplication in 4,000 acres. With these seeds and seed accessing from ICRISAT, AF planned to cover 30,150 acres during 2011 rainy season as follows:

Sl. No. Name of the mandal No. of villages Area under ICGV 91114 Groundnut in ha

1 Dharmavaram 35 3375 2 Rapthadu 20 3125 3 Kundurpi 36 4375 4 Settur 24 4825 5 Kalyandurg 31 4725 6 Beluguppa 22 3900 7 Kudair 24 2425 8 Atmakur 22 3400

Total

214 30,150

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5. The importance of groundnut haulms for feeding livestock Groundnut haulm is an important fodder for livestock. Average haulm yield of ICGV 91114 was 11.5 quintals per hectare, which was more than that of other varieties. Consumption of ICGV 91114 haulms resulted in higher body weight gain in sheep and higher milk yields in cows. The importance of livestock is more pronounced in the district where the probability of crop failure is high; in such environments livestock serve as an institution of insurance and act as cushion against shocks of crop failure. 6. The collaboration with ILRI for investigating the impact of

adopting ICGV91114 Support given to ILRI Project: By observing and knowing the benefits of ICGV 91114 groundnut, the A.F. staff assisted the ILRI staff and Researchers in providing the basic information as they required. They also helped in selection of villages and to gather information from different villages in the project area for the research work. A.F. provided all the logistics to the staff and researchers of ILRI at all times when they worked here. 7. Conclusions Besides drought tolerance, ICGV 91114 has moderate to high resistance to insect pests and diseases compared to the other varieties. An important characteristic of ICGV 91114 is uniform pod setting and maturity. The kernels are medium to large size. Farmers retained about one fourth of the total farm produce for household consumption food and seed. Bulk of the retained produce, however was meant for the sowing in the next crop season. The seed requirement for groundnut crop is voluminous and the costs of seed multiplication, acquisition, processing, storage and distribution are exorbitant. The seed to price ratio is very low for groundnut. These factors restrict private sector participation in multiplication and distribution of groundnut seed. At present, a considerable proportion of farmer's seed demand is met from their own farm saved seeds. A.F. play an important role in informal seed distribution by the ICGV 91114 growers to other farmers in the same village or other villages.

The benefits of adoption of improved drought tolerant varieties would go beyond the farm gate encompassing the whole groundnut value chain. Oil manufacturing firms would experience stability in the groundnut supplies; hence can optimally utilize their processing capacity and financial and human resources. Consumers benefit from increased supply through low and stable prices of groundnut and groundnut products.

The benefits of adoption of improved drought tolerant varieties would go beyond the farm gate encompassing the whole groundnut value chain. Oil manufacturing firms would experience stability in the groundnut supplies; hence can optimally utilize their processing capacity and financial and human resources. Consumers benefit from increased supply through low and stable prices of groundnut and groundnut products.

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ANNEXURE – 4

A Brief report on “Ecology Day” Celebrations I. Introduction: On the eve of World’s Environment Day, the Kalyandurg and Kundurpi area teams (2 of the AF’s 4 project areas) organized the “Ecology Day” in Kalyandurg town. The venue was Sree Vasavi Kalyanmantapam. A rally and public meeting was organized with farmers and farm labourers. Different stalls and exhibitions related to environment awareness were organized. The objective of organizing “Ecology Day” was to enhance awareness on the role of rural community in restoring ecological balance by protecting and conserving natural resources.

II. The participants and invitees: About 1250 people from 4 mandals (Kalyandurg, Beluguppa, Kundurpi and Settur) of AF project area participated in the celebrations. Dr.Y.V.Malla Reddy, Director of AF Ecology Centre, Mr. Sreenivasulu, Circle Inspector of Police of Kalyanadurg , Mr. T.V.Chalapathi, Director of RDT Ecology programme were the invitees for the celebrations. The participants include Convenors and Co-convenors of SMGs, GSSs and MSSs, progressive farmers, Karyakarthas and Village Panchayath leaders. III. Rally by the participants: The participating farmers and farm labours had taken a rally through the main streets of Kalyandurg town with play cards displaying the adverse effects of climate change, deforestation and chemical agriculture & the need of protecting the environment through various measures like Sustainable Agriculture practices, Low Carbon Farming etc. The general public also joined the rally and raised slogans in support of protecting the environment. They have appreciated AF’s efforts in creating awareness and sensitizing people on environmental issues. IV. Exhibitions and stalls for awareness creation: After the rally, all the participants assembled at the venue for the meeting. Before entering into the meeting hall, the participants (Farmers and Farm labours) visited the stalls and exhibitions. A model demo plot of Sustainable Agriculture with all components was

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demonstrated in one of the stalls, which impressed the participants very much. The other stalls exhibited various kinds of traditional and indigenous seeds, food grains, fruits, forest species plants, traditional agriculture implements, bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides (decoctions), different products made by local artisans, birds and snakes. A cultural program was organized with awareness songs on ecology and environment. V. Awareness meeting: The meeting started at 10.30 am with lighting of lamp by Dr.Y.V.Malla Reddy and other invitees. The meeting was presided over by M.S.Vannurakka, the GSS Convenor of Duradakunta village. In his inaugural address Dr. Y.V.Malla Reddy highlighted the human made damage to the environment. He said that environment is nothing but resources given by the mother nature for survival of living beings. Human beings have been indiscriminately destroying and exploiting the natural resources which ultimately are posing threat to human survival. The production and emission of green house gases into the atmosphere is aggravating the problem. He said “All the countries in the world are now paying attention on protecting the environment. Conserving the bio-diversity in nature is very vital and we all should strive for it”. He also added that there is need to bring in multiple cropping systems in place of mono cropping and shift from chemical agriculture to sustainable agriculture. VI. Consolidation of messages by guest speakers: Farmers are advised to take up massive vegetative plantations which provide

Food, Fodder, Fruit, and Timber. This will provide livelihoods and also protect the environment. The agriculture should be eco-friendly and sustainable.

“RDT and Accion Fraterna have been working to protect the ecology and environment in Anantapur district since 40 years through various programmes like watershed development afforestation, horticulture, sustainable agriculture, providing safe drinking water etc. The people of Anantapur district should remember these two forever” said Mr. Sreenivasulu, C.I. of Police.

“The annual rainfall has increased in the district from 400 mm (1968-1988) to 614 mm (2004-2010),” said Mr. T.V.Chalapathi, Ecology Director, RDT. He advised the farmers to protect the existing trees and vegetation in their villages by adopting social fencing. This model has been demonstrated in Hulikal, Vittampalli, Palavenkatapuram villages with large scale horticulture

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plantation to combat the recurring droughts. He also said that LEISA/NPM practices in horticulture will yeild good quality fruits.

The speech given by the women leaders on ecology and environment enhanced the spirit of women participants to take active part in protecting the environment. The CBOs like SMGs, GSS and MSS have a greater role in bringing radical changes in present agriculture system. LEISA should replace the green revolution (GR) model agriculture which is high external input agriculture.

VII. Cultural activities: The cultural activities impressed the participants with messages on importance of protecting the environment. They include folk songs, folk dance, Kolattam, Keelugurram (men wearing horse frame and dancing) and puliveshalu (men wearing tiger mask and dancing) etc. The celebrations ended with delicious lunch and entertainment by cultural team and local artists. VIII. Conclusion: The participants actively participated in all the activities of environment day celebrations. Some of the women leaders (Convenors of SMG, GSS and MSS) like Vannurakka (Duradakunta village), Bheemakka (Settur mandal), Varalakshmi (Kundurpi mandal) enlightened the participants with their motivating messages on sustainable agriculture and role of CBOs. All AF staff and the invitees expressed that the day was very fruitful and the messages given by the invitees and women leaders inspired the participants. All the participants have taken an oath adopt Low Carbon Farming (LCF) and save the ecology.

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ANNEXURE – 5

A Brief report on “World day to combat Drought and Desertification” - 17th June, 2011

I. Introduction:

The world day to combat drought and desertification was held at Lalithakala parishat, Anantapur which was organised by Accion Fraterna Ecology Centre on 17-06-2011. The UNCCD has decided in 1994 to celebrate 17th June of every year as world day to combat drought and desertification. It also declared the decade i.e., from 2010 to 2020 as “Combat Drought and Desertification” decade where in many programmes will be taken up for overcoming Drought and Desertification in different parts of world. The main objective of the UN declaration is to warn and make the people and Governments to take up the Drought mitigation and Anti Desertification activities in affected areas. Accion Fraterna Ecology Centre took initiative to celebrate this day and sensitize the people and Government on the issues of drought & desertification as Anantapur is a chronically drought-prone area and fast desertifying!

II. The participants and Invitees :

About 1350 people from 4 mandals of AF project villages participated the meeting. The meeting started at 11.00 AM with lighting lamp by Dr. Y.V.Malla Reddy, the District Collector Mr. B.Janardhan Reddy, IAS., Mr. Subba Reddy, DFO, Mr. Murali Project Director, DWMA, Mr. Vidhya Shankar, JD, Horticulture, Mr. Purushotham Reddy, DD, Ground Water, Mr. Imam, Editor, Kadalika Magazine, Mr. Govindu Chowdary, Progressive Farmer, Mr. Lakshmikantham, DFO (Rtd.) and Mr. B.Kondaiah, Head, Sustainable Agriculture, the MSS (Mandal Sasyamithra Samakhya) convenors Ms. Anasuyamma, H.S.Varalakshmi, Ms Sulochanamma and Saralamma also shared the Dias along with other dignitaries.

III. Inaugural Address:

Dr.Y.V.Malla Reddy presided over the meeting and in his inaugural address he remarked that Anantapur district has become a home for droughts and desert. Scientists have been warning that rapid desertification is also taking place as sand domestic seen in Kanekal mandal of Anantapur district. A large sheet rock, Spread over in 10 acres in Andepalli village of Kambadur mandal was broken into pieces

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due to increased heat in the weather indicating the desertification process. He opined that appearance of sand domes and camels is not the only indication of desertification. But disappearance of trees, animals, birds and unfavorable conditions for agriculture is the indication of desertification; and this is the reason why farmers are reaping only 3 normal crops in a span of 10 crop years in Anantapur district.

IV. Consolidation of messages by guest speakers

1) Generally the human undue interference with nature and over-exploitation of natural resources causes the droughts and desertification and the single most important remedy begins with an proving vegetation in the area. There is about 10% forest land in the District, but devoid of vegetation. So all the people, Especially farmers are advised to protect the existing vegetation and take up massive plantations where ever possible, with suitable species for food, fodder, fruit, fibre etc. The plantations should be eco-friendly as well as economy friendly to the farmers on sustainable basis.

2) The erratic rainfall with high intensity causing soil erosion apart from the wind erosion. The soils are becoming unproductive due to erosion of fertile top soil. Protection of soil from sun (heat) and directly intense falling of rain on top soil are to be taken care of thro developing green cover on the soil and mulching. It was suggested to grow trees across in the District on large scale, so that top soil as well as moisture can be conserved.

3) Harvesting of scarce rain water by construction of water bodies like check dams, Farm ponds, Repair of old tanks, rejuvenation of natural springs etc is required to improve surface and ground water. The speakers appreciated and put on record the efforts of Accion Fraterna Ecology Centre and RDT in rain water harvesting as well as soil & moisture conservation and vegetation development though their watershed programme, horticulture and tree cropping programmes. Further the speakers also appreciated the recent efforts in this direction by DWMA under MGNREGS.

4) Development of tree crops in Anantapur District (Sustainable income and healthy environment) helps a lot in combating Drought and Desertification. The Government, RDT and AF Ecology Centre have been implementing special rainfed horticulture and other tree cropping programmes on large scale. Further under MGNREGS. Government is providing 100% subsidy to SC/ST farmers and 90% subsidy to other farmers including provision for pitting, plant cost, watering charges, weeding, mulching etc. The participant farmers are requested to effectively make use this scheme and thus secure income security to themselves and also help in combating

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drought and desertification. The Department of Horticulture suggested the farmers to plant densely different fruit plants in one acre land in order to get stable (assured) income year after year.

5) The MGNREGS is being implemented in Anantapur District and about 6 lakhs labour are getting employment through which the family income is stabilized to some extent. Mr. L.Murali, Project Director, DWMA expressed that earlier there were not enough funds to combat drought in Anantapur district. But now MGNREGS has come as boon and up to now Rs.1051 crores have been expended to mitigate the drought and poverty. Variety of activities related to trees, horticulture, water bodies, rain water management, land development, fodder development etc are being implemented under MGNREGS with the objective of combating drought & desertification. The Project Director, DWMA appealed the participants to effectively utilize the MGNREGS programme, which is helping in mitigating the drought and desertification.

6) The District Collect Mr. B.Janardhan Reddy, IAS appealed to the people of Anantapur District to protect the soil and use scarce rain water efficiently. Out of the 522 cm rainfall received only 10% is infiltrating into the ground (converted as ground water). With appropriate land and water management measures we can increase the ground water soil productivity substantially. Plantation on large scale and cloud seeding is to be taken up to improve the rainfall, apart from protecting the soil from exposure and various erosions. He added that it will take 10 thousand years to form 1” (one inch) of top soil. He explained that the rain water is simply reaching the sea without being utilized for the Agriculture and other beneficial purposes. He demonstrated this to the participants by pouring water one person’s bald head and showed how it ran-off and on other person’s head with lot of hair and how it was obsorbed into the hair. It was well understood by the people how vegetation helps the land to absorb the rain water. The Collector emphasized that protecting soil from sun and effective utilization of rain water is the most important measure in combating the drought and desertification.

Conclusion:

The MSS conveners also expressed their views and appealed the gathering to implement the measures suggested by the guest speakers.

The meeting was successful and ended by 2.15 pm with vote of thanks to the participants and invitees. The initiative of conducting this meeting by AF Ecology Centre for the first time in the District was appreciated by each and every person from Government Administration, NGOs and also public. The extensive converage about this meeting was given by all popular news papers.

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www.af-ecologycentre.org

Accion Fraterna Ecology Centre Upparapalli Road,

Bangalore Highway, Anantapur – 515002 Andhra Pradesh – India

Contact Person

Dr. Y.V. Malla Reddy Director

Phone : +91(0) 8554 – 244222 , 246 884

Fax : +91 (0) 8554 – 244990

Email : actionf@sancharnet.in action_atp@dataone.in

yvmallareddy@yahoo.co.in