IMPROVED AGRICULTURE

The aim of the improvedagriculture component of the BAIF-led NAIP project in Maharashtra is to improve the productivity of crops and animals through technological interventions.This component will reach out to 350 participants. The key activities envisaged under this component are conducting trainings, establishing demonstrations and introducing a range of improved agricultural practices.

The project implementation will begin with a baseline survey and a technical survey of selected participants. BAIF’s organizations, theCentral Research Station and MITTRA, will provide training as well as support for action planning and phasing schedule. There will be two trainings, one for the districts in Vidarbha and the other for the districts of Nagar and Nandurbar. Linkages will be established with local Krishi Vigyan Kendras and relevant Government organizations through a planned programme.

Improved practices on fodder, seed, crop rotation,integrated nutrient management(INM) and integrated/biological pest management will be introduced. Demonstrations will be on different composting methods and green manuring. Rates offertilizer and manure application in demonstrations and INM intervention will bebased on soil analysis.The entire improved agriculture component will be linked to the WRD activity so that the main constraint of water for crops will be addressed.

Support to participants for the improved agriculture component, if required, will be provided in the first year. The support for INM will be reduced to 50% and 25% for second and third years, respectively. Participants’ contribution will be in the form of land, labour and water. They will also contribute inputs from the second year onwards.

The seed bank replenishment – In case of hybrid varieties instead of taking seeds, the seeds of other crops of same value will be replenished. In other varieties the same quantities of seeds to be taken back for replenish the seed bank.