WOTR, HUF launch sustainable farming program in across 30 villages in Maharashtra

The Watershed Organisation Trust (WOTR), non-profit driving climate-resilient agriculture and rural transformation, has collaborated with Hindustan Unilever Foundation (HUF) to launch a three-year programme to strengthen water security, livelihoods and sustainable farming practices in 30 villages of Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra.

The initiative, “Holistic Development of Tribal Communities in Gadchiroli through Improved Irrigation Facilities and Alternate Sources of Livelihood,” seeks to create 9.6 billion litres of additional annual water potential. It aims to enhance agricultural and allied production by 4212 tonnes, benefiting 3000 hectares and more than 3116 households and generate an additional income of 15.12 crore rupees for the community.

Gadchiroli faces mounting environmental and livelihood pressures, with forest cover declining from 74% in 1989 to 68% in 2019 and land degradation affecting over 1,045 sq. km.

The project will implement soil and water conservation measures, including the creation and deepening of bodies (traditional ponds), to increase water availability and prevent erosion. It will expand irrigation coverage in the project villages to enable year-round cultivation and also promote climate-resilient farming practices such as the System of Crop Intensification (SCI), crop rotation, intercropping, inland fisheries, and horticulture.

Farmers will also be supported in other income-generating activities including beekeeping, animal husbandry, handicrafts, and micro-enterprises, with training, inputs, and market linkages, with a particular focus on women-led initiatives.

Prakash Keskar, Executive Director, WOTR, said, “With over 32 years of experience across Maharashtra, WOTR considers Gadchiroli a key focus area. Our collaboration with the Hindustan Unilever Foundation will drive meaningful change and foster sustainable development in the region.”

Dr Shraman Jha, CEO, HUF, added, “By combining sustainable water solutions with diversified livelihood opportunities, we aim to nurture a future where every drop counts and villages thrive.”

WOTR said that the campaign leverages local institutions like Gram Sabhas and state schemes such as MGNREGA to maximise impact. This initiative aims to bring a change in the region by leveraging the natural resources while also enhancing agricultural productivity and improving average household incomes in the region.