Project Overview

In the year 2018-19, a comprehensive Detailed Project Report (DPR) was prepared to lay the groundwork for integrated livelihood interventions in the six-gram panchayats of the Karanji cluster, situated in the Pathardi Block of Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra. This ambitious endeavor was spearheaded by L&T CSR and supported by UNDP.

Project Management

This pivotal project was under the management of Vinod Raut, the COO of Global Synergizers, during his tenure with UNDP. The objective was to prepare a detailed project report to actualize a livelihood-focused initiative initially conceptualized by L&T CSR and aligned with UNDP’s vision.

Project Scope

Conducted within the Pathardi Taluka/Block of Ahmednagar district, the study encapsulated an array of stakeholders. Beyond farmer families, the project engaged UNDP, L&T teams, WOTR (Watershed Organisation Trust) representatives, Village Development Council members, community members, and governmental bodies. The primary goal was to comprehensively assess resource availability within the Karanji cluster.

Holistic Focus Areas

The study was meticulously structured to encompass various facets of livelihood enhancement, with a spotlight on agri-value chains and agri-allied activities-based livelihoods such as poultry, goat rearing, and fishery. An integral dimension was dedicated to the aspirations and challenges faced by youth, both male and female, within the community. The study’s purpose was to unearth potential interventions for youth skilling, employment, and entrepreneurship.

Research Methodology

To ensure an exhaustive understanding, the study deployed a range of methodologies:

  1. One-on-one interactions with farmers and stakeholders.
  2. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) that included representatives from all selected villages in the Pathardi block.
  3. Segregated interactions with women, men, and youth for unbiased perspectives.
  4. FGDs on agri and allied sector interventions, like agriculture, horticulture, poultry, goat rearing, and youth skilling.
  5. Collaboration with WOTR and Sampada officials to access secondary data and amplify intervention cases.

Empowering through Insight

The study’s outcomes illuminated the intricate tapestry of livelihood opportunities and challenges within the Karanji cluster. It identified interventions that could uplift the community’s socioeconomic status, especially focusing on youth empowerment. These insights form the bedrock for potential interventions that can foster youth skilling, entrepreneurship, and micro-enterprise development.

Call to Action

The Karanji Cluster project serves as a testament to the potential of integrated livelihood interventions in transforming communities. Global Synergizers, now actively engaged with farmers’ producer organizations across diverse geographies, offers the expertise to conduct in-depth studies and craft detailed project reports. For those seeking to collaborate, gain insights, or discuss similar initiatives, reach out to us at [email protected]. Together, we can pave the way for sustainable development and empowerment.