Balasore, Odisha – At the half-yearly review meeting of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) in Balasore, officials requested AMMACHI Labs to submit its goatery implementation strategy as a model for other partner institutions across India.
This recognition marks a significant milestone, highlighting AMMACHI Labs’ contribution to sustainable rural livelihoods through innovative, community-driven approaches.
Scalability: The goatery model has proven practical and adaptable, enabling smallholder farmers to secure sustainable livelihoods.
Innovation in Integration: By combining orchard development with livestock rearing, farmers gain year-round income and resilience against crop losses.
Policy & Practice Impact: NABARD’s request will help replicate the model across tribal and rural communities nationwide.
Orchard and Crop Development
The second round of mango and cashew saplings was recently distributed at Kharmul and Tantichira, with gap filling completed across all Wadi sites. Preparations are underway for planting lemon saplings as natural fencing, further strengthening long-term sustainability.
Intercropping for Nutrition and Income
Farmers across multiple Wadis planted brinjal seedlings, while intercropping plots of chili, ladies’ finger, ridge gourd, and brinjal were carefully maintained. At Bramhaniapal alone, brinjal intercropping now spans over 8 acres, ensuring both nutritional security and additional income for families.
Empowering Goat Rearing Groups
Community meetings with Goat Rearing Groups (GRGs) in Rajang village reinforced grassroots participation and leadership, ensuring that local communities remain at the center of goatery activities.
Driving Sustainable Rural Development
NABARD’s recognition underscores the wider impact of AMMACHI Labs’ WADI project, which is implemented by Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham and supported by NABARD. By empowering tribal communities through orchard development, intercropping, and livestock rearing, the initiative continues to strengthen self-reliance and resilience—one harvest at a time.