The High Impact Mega Watershed Project "Jiwi Daha Hasa", operated by the civil service organization "Jan Jagaran Kendra", headquartered in Hazaribagh, has brought about significant positive changes in rural livelihoods. The Jiwida Hasa project has taken crucial steps to promote fish farming through reservoirs and water management structures in the rural areas of Tantnagar block. The aim of this initiative is to strengthen the economic condition of local farmers and fishers while efficiently utilizing natural resources. Here we narrate case of Kaushalya Samad, for her innate will to do best of what project has to offer.
Program Overview
The "Jiwi Daah Hasa" project is a holistic initiative aimed at sustainable watershed management. By integrating natural resource conservation with livelihood generation, the program transforms rural communities."
Also known as the Jharkhand High Impact Mega Watershed Initiative, the project focuses on bringing life to soils, water resources, and rural livelihoods. The project effectively integrates community participation, watershed planning, and government schemes like MGNREGS to address critical challenges in rural development. The program aims to conserve water resources, improve agriculture, and enhance livelihoods.
The project was conceived to show how small investments in water management can yield significant economic returns. Such investments help rural community to address common challenges such as irregular rainfall, lack of irrigation, crop failures, and livelihood insecurities.
Emphasis is placed on finding long-term solutions for recurring problems. Activities include constructing ponds, check dams, reforestation, and groundwater recharge systems. Such interventions aim to ensure year-round water availability and reduce dependency on rainfall.
Villagers are encouraged to collectively plan for funds and explore available government schemes or external funding opportunities. Practical steps like forming committees, creating water structures, planting trees, and adopting new farming techniques are presented as solutions for long-term growth.
Community ownership is central to the program. Powers are decentralized to Panchayats and Gram Sabhas to plan and implement interventions. Stakeholders like ward members, farmers, NGOs, and government officials collaborate to ensure accountability and execution.
The project identifies and addresses major concerns of farmers, such as Low productivity and frequent crop failures, Water scarcity in wells and streams, Land degradation and aspires to address them through runoff harvesting, crop diversification, plantation and fodder production for livestock.
The program banks on Lveraging MGNREGS for Sustainable Development. Assured wages, productive assets, and long-term livelihoods are created using MGNREGS funds. Activities are planned to restore soil fertility, ensure sustainable water use, and improve productivity. Organized community groups and support from technical experts create a robust foundation for growth.
Through this, the program intends to enhance rural livelihoods, reduce migration, and empower women through economic activities like fish farming and market linkages. It is expected that project activity would lead to reduction in water runoff by 50% and improve water availability by 60%. Converting unirrigated land to irrigated fields, enabling crop diversification and higher yields. Intensification of farming on 50% of the land area, improving productivity and incomes.
Why Fisheries ?
Fisheries has been conceived as a strategic intervention under JDH with an intention to :
A. Community Participation : Villagers, including men and women, actively participate in the fish farming process. Fish are harvested using traditional nets in local water bodies, emphasizing collective effort.
B. Strengthening Livelihoods: The project promotes fish farming as an additional income-generating activity. The harvested fish are sold in local markets, as evidenced by images showcasing women selling fresh fish.
C. Sustainable Utilization : Local ponds and water bodies have been leveraged for fisheries, addressing both food and economic needs. Farmers and fisherfolk are trained in sustainable aquaculture practices to ensure long-term productivity.
D. Market Linkages: Fish are weighed and sold directly in nearby markets, ensuring fair prices and access to local consumers. Images depict weighing scales and sales activities, highlighting the community's entrepreneurial spirit.
E. Empowerment and Inclusion: Women play a significant role in the intervention, from harvesting fish to selling them in markets.The initiative fosters gender equity and community participation, empowering marginalized groups.
Village Profile
Kasiya is a rural village located in the Tantnagar Block, West Singhbhum District of Jharkhand, India. The village lies approximately 7 kilometers southeast of Tantnagar and 23 kilometers south of the district headquarters Chaibasa. The elevation is around 260 meters above sea level, contributing to its semi-humid subtropical climate. The region experiences moderate rainfall with a mix of clear and cloudy weather, making it ideal for agriculture and fish farming initiatives.
The total geographical area of the village is 384.62 hectares, and it lies within a defined micro-watershed area, crucial for the local agro-ecological balance. The presence of drainage lines and nearby rivers like Subarnarekha and Roro supports water availability and prevents soil erosion. The village benefits from the proximity of forest patches that further aid in maintaining ecological balance.
According to the 2011 Census, Kasiya has a total population of 1,679 residents, with 836 males and 843 females living in 317 households. The literacy rate stands at 37.88%, with 46.05% literacy among men and 29.77% among women, indicating the need for continued educational interventions.
Kasiya was incorporated in the Jiwi Daah Hasa Project, a watershed-based initiative aimed at regenerating the agro-ecosystem while securing livelihoods in 2023. A number of projects on sustainable natural resource management and improved income generation opportunities for local farmers are at various stage of development in Kesia Village - Panchayet.
Participant Profile
Name: Kaushalya Samad Husband: Rengo Samad Village: Banabeer Kasia Panchayat: Kasia Block: Tantnagar District: West Singhbhum (Jharkhand)
Water Source: Pond Size: 50'×50'×10'
Under this project, fish farming was initiated in Kaushalya Samad’s pond. The "Jiwida Hasa" project team deployed by CSO Jan Jagaran Kendra provided fish seeds and regular technical assistance. Beneficiaries were also taught the proper techniques for feeding fish to enhance production. The following procedure was followed by the participant with help of the project team for effective fish farming under the project:
The pond size should be 0.04 to 0.10 hectares with a depth of 1.5 to 2 meters. Ponds are selected near rural areas and should be free from water logging. The surrounding area is cleared, and the soil is leveled before digging the pond. Water is tested to ensure the pH level is between 7 and 8. Before filling the pond with water, it was cleaned and purified. Lime was applied to enhance soil fertility and eliminate bacteria, generally at a rate of 200-250 kg/hectare.
Only healthy and high-quality fish seeds were selected. 5,000 to 10,000 fish seeds were stocked per hectare. The seeds were acclimatized to the pond water temperature before release. Fish are provided with both natural (plankton) and supplemental feed (rice bran, oil cakes, etc.). Feed is given twice daily, in the morning and evening, amounting to 5% of the fish’s body weight.
The water level was maintained at 1.5-2 meters. Weeds and unnecessary plants were regularly removed. The pond was cleaned to maintain adequate oxygen levels in the water. Daily monitoring of fish health was conducted. When symptoms of disease appeared, expert advice was sought, and appropriate treatment was administered.
Fish mature within 6-8 months, after which they are harvested. The harvested fish are sold in local markets and mandis, increasing the beneficiaries' income. Beneficiaries are trained in pond management, feeding practices, and marketing strategies. The project promotes the collective use of ponds through community participation.
Income -Expenditure
Particulars | Quantity & Rate | Amount in ₹ | Particulars | Quantity & Rate | Amount in ₹ |
Fish Seeds | 6 kg × ₹350 | ₹2100 | First Harvest | 10 kg × ₹220 | ₹2200 |
Feed Expenses |
| ₹700 | Second Harvest | 15 kg × ₹220 | ₹3300 |
Total Expenses |
| ₹2800 | Third Harvest | 25 kg × ₹220 | ₹5500 |
Project Initiatives: Under the project, local fishers were provided with knowledge of modern fish farming techniques. Efforts included rebuilding ponds and utilizing local resources for fish farming. Beneficiaries were trained regularly to adopt advanced fish farming practices. Key training areas included Selection of suitable fish species. Determining the correct feed quantity and Maintaining water quality. The beneficiaries were provided with Fish seeds to stock the ponds. The project encouraged the active participation of women in fish farming.
Benefits of Fish Farming: Fish farming has led to higher incomes for rural families. The revenue from selling fish has significantly improved the beneficiaries' standard of living. Increased fish production has spurred demand in local markets. Fish have become an essential source of protein for villagers, enhancing their nutritional level.Ponds not only support fish farming but also assist in other agricultural activities. Working together on fish farming has fostered stronger community ties among villagers.
Beneficiary Experience: Kaushalya Samad shares, "This project has become a means to improve my family’s living standards. Today, I earn a steady income by selling fish in the weekly market. Sometimes, the fish are sold as soon as they are caught from the pond. This has not only increased my income but has also given me an opportunity to become self-reliant. I am extremely happy with this initiative."
Measuring Impact : Livelihood
A small and marginal rural household in West Singhbhum district, particularly in Tantnagar block, primarily depends on subsistence farming, daily wage labor, and minor forest produce for their livelihood. Based on typical agricultural patterns, local economy, and available income sources, the annual income is estimated as follows:
Small and marginal farmers typically own less than 2.5 acres of land. They grow crops like Paddy, minor millets, and pulses (arhar, urad) are commonly grown.Average paddy yield can be around 8-10 quintals per acre.Assuming a farm gate price of ₹1,500 per quintal, and production of 15 quintals (for 2 acres), the gross income from paddy would be ₹22,500. Including pulses and minor crops, the total can reach around ₹30,000 annually.
Rural households often rely on MGNREGA work and other local wage labor opportunities. Daily Wage may be estimated as ₹250 per day.Assuming 100 days of wage labor (common under MGNREGA), the income would be approximately ₹25,000 annually.
Livestock rearing (goats, poultry) and MFP collection like mahua, tendu leaves, and lac. May add income to the tune of ₹10,000 to ₹12,000 annually.Non-Farm Income like Handicrafts, small businesses, or remittances from family members working outside the district may earn ₹5,000 to ₹8,000 annually.
Total Estimated Annual Income works out to be ₹70,000 to ₹80,000 annually. An income of Rs. 11,000.00 amounts to around around 13-14 percent of annual income .
Measuring Impact :Migration
Migration Patterns and Impact from Small and Marginal Farming Households of West Singhbhum District, Tantnagar Block
Migration among small and marginal farming households in Tantnagar block of West Singhbhum district is a common livelihood strategy due to limited agricultural productivity, seasonal employment, and economic distress. Local Migration involves approximately 20-25% of small and marginal households.
Local Migration within the block or nearby villages for agricultural labor, minor forest produce collection, and local construction work is either daily or often short-term (1-2 months during non-harvest periods).
Inter-district Migration to nearby districts such as Saraikela-Kharsawan, East Singhbhum, and Khunti for longer-term wage labor, brick kilns, and construction work duration ranges from 3 to 6 months, depending on the agricultural cycle.Inter-district Migration involves around 30-35% of households.
Inter-state Migration here is significant to states like Odisha, West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu for labor-intensive work in industries, brick kilns, construction, and domestic work. Duration varies from 6 months to a year, often leading to semi-permanent migration patterns.Inter-state Migration involves approximately 40-50% of households, particularly the younger working population and male members.
Factors Driving Migration includes agricultural Constraints, Seasonal Employment, Limited water availability among others. Distress Migration leads to
· Family Separation: Male members migrating often leave women and children behind, leading to emotional strain and social challenges.
· Disrupted Education: Children may drop out of school due to frequent migration cycles.
· Agricultural Neglect: Migration during the cropping season can lead to reduced agricultural productivity.
· Health and Safety Risks: Migrant workers often face unsafe working conditions, exploitation, and poor living standards.
· Cultural Erosion: Prolonged migration can lead to detachment from local cultural and social practices.
As the case exemplifies, initiation of Fisheries has been able to reduce migration and helped the young ones continuing with their education.
Measuring Impact :Status of Women
Women in small and marginal farming households in West Singhbhum district, particularly in Tantnagar block, face significant socio-economic challenges. The region, dominated by tribal communities, presents a complex landscape where women play a crucial role in agriculture and household management but continue to face disparities across key indicators. The female literacy rate in West Singhbhum stands at 41.2%, significantly lower than the national average of 68%. In Tantnagar block, tribal women’s literacy rates are even lower due to limited access to education and early dropout rates.
High dropout rates among girls, especially after primary education. Cultural norms often prioritize domestic roles over education. 52% of women in the district suffer from anemia, indicating poor nutritional intake. High maternal and infant mortality rates due to inadequate institutional delivery facilities and limited health infrastructure.
Women actively participate in agriculture and minor forest produce (MFP) collection but face significant wage gaps. Daily wages for women are 30-40% lower than those of men for similar work. Only 5% of women have access to formal banking services, limiting their financial independence.
Strong patriarchal norms often limit women's decision-making capacity in households and communities. Challenges include High prevalence of child marriage, Cases of domestic violence and restricted mobility.
As evident from Kaushalya’s story, participation in Fisheries through JDH project seems to gave her opportunity to connect with community, a source of assured Gender neutral income and a better tomorrow for her beloved ones.
Note : Report based on JDH project being implimented by Jan Jagaran Kendra at Tantnagar Block of West Singhbhum district . Research and content created by Kallol Saha
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