The Jiwi Daah Hasa (JDH) project aims to revitalize land and water resources while creating sustainable livelihoods for marginalized and landless farmer families in the most deprived geographical regions of Jharkhand.
This project is structured as a long-term initiative and is jointly managed by the Bharatiya Gramin Aajeevika Foundation (BRLF) and the Rural Development Department of the Government of Jharkhand. The primary goal of the JDH project is to establish sustainable livelihood opportunities in rural panchayats by following the Watershed Development approach and leveraging MGNREGA-based infrastructure development.
Additionally, this project plays a crucial role in enhancing the ecological balance in village communities and building resilience to climate change by implementing sustainable agricultural practices and resource management.
The JDH project is operational in several blocks across Jharkhand through a network of 12 non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The districts covered include West Singhbhum, particularly in blocks such as Chaibasa, Khuntpani, Anandpur, Jonamundi, Jagannathpur, and Tatanagar. The project is supported by Jan Jagran Kendra, which has its main office in Ranchi and a regional office in Kekchi (Tatanagar).
To ensure effective execution, the project began with Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and Map Marking, which allowed for a phased selection of locations within 53 villages in Tatanagar. The ODK platform is being used to record and monitor implementation at the Gram Sabha level. Project stakeholders in Gramsabha include Gram Sabha members, Village Munda, Ward members, JSLPS representatives, Elected Panchayat leaders (Mukhiya and Up-Mukhiya), Employment assistants (MGNREGA workers)
Each stakeholder plays a critical role in ensuring the execution and monitoring of the project's activities. The presence and participation of stakeholders are recorded in the Gram Sabha Register, and after preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR), work codes for different projects are generated at the block level.
Key government officials involved in the project include the Block Program Officer (BPO) and MGNREGA officials, who provide approval and ensure that the projects are executed efficiently. Several work codes have already been generated, and multiple projects are now successfully operational.
Some of the major initiatives implemented under the JDH project include: 30x40 Lapse Model for soil and water conservation, TCB (Trench Cum Bund) construction, SCT (Soil Conservation Trench) initiatives, LBS (Land Bunding Structures), BHGY (Birsa Harit Gram Yojana) plantations, Irrigation well schemes and Common water resource projects (ponds, dobas, and contour bunding).
These initiatives have led to increased employment opportunities, reduced migration, and improved agricultural productivity. Once essential infrastructure, such as ponds and dobas, was established, efforts shifted towards improving Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) and High-Value Agriculture (HVA). Beneficiaries were provided guidance on implementing sustainable agricultural models, which have increased their incomes significantly.
Additionally, the project introduced organic inputs like Jeevamrit, Amrit Pani, and Neem-based bio-pesticides, which have enhanced soil fertility and crop productivity. Beneficiaries are now processing their own farm produce, leading to higher yields in both staple crops and vegetables.
The Jiwi Daah Hasa project has had a transformative impact on the communities involved. By reviving degraded land and water resources, it has not only created employment but also ensured food security and sustainable livelihoods. Beneficiaries have expressed their satisfaction, stating that this initiative has significantly improved their living conditions and provided them with long-term economic stability. The JDH project stands as a model for integrated rural development, demonstrating how community-driven planning and implementation can bring about lasting positive change in vulnerable regions.
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