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Research & Publications

Network Past Issues

Issue: April-June 2006 Volume 10 No. 2
Issue Title: Potential of Small-Scale Income Generation Activities
Author: Jayesh Talati et. al.

Several Non Government Organisations (NGOs ) a r e wo r k ing f o r o v e r a l l socioeconomic development of socially and economically deprived and weaker sections of rural Gujarat. Bhartiya Agro-Industries Development Research Foundation (BAIF) is one such NGO. With the aid from KFW, Germany and support from NABARD, Government of India and Government of Gujarat, BAIF has implemented a ‘Comprehensive Tribal Development Programme’ in Dharampur and Kaprada blocks of Valsad district, Vansda block of Navsari district and Dang block of The Dang district of South Gujarat. These are predominantly tribal blocks of the state. Wadi cultivation (orchard development through plantation of mango, cashew nut and forest plants), Soil and water conservation, water resource development, women’s development, health improvement and training and capacity building are major programme components. Among all the programme components, women’s development project attracts special attention as 424 self help groups (SHGs) have been established so far. Nearly 120 SHGs have taken up small-scale income generation activities (IGAs) of various types (Source: Progress report no 22, BAIF). These IGAs have brought positive changes in the lives of tribal women. This case study is a testimony of the well planed target oriented development project that yield better results in a due course of programme period. It also highlights how joint efforts of a few development organisations have the potential to create positive socioeconomic impact.