Read the opinion pieces from those at the sharp end of development world – from practitioners in the field to district officers and even ideators creating schemes for the future. Field Journal is the place for civil society groups to share their experiences and insights – their highs and lows – in their journey to put India on the path to progress.
Ground Report
The much-maligned khaaps still have potential
Though rigid at times, the centuries-old informal social institution of khaap can still be effective in solving issues if it adapts to the needs of a changing society.
Women shed ‘forest encroachers’ tag, turn land owners
Dubbed as encroachers in the forest land they tilled, the women of a village in Odisha claim their land rights and get their name recorded on the property document.
Tribal women stitch a new future in Gujarat’s Dang
Left without farm work after the harvesting season ended, women from two villages in Dang district of Gujarat come together to form successful tailoring units.
The ‘queen’ of king chillies in Assam
From growing them commercially to starting a nursery, this woman farmer helps others realise the market potential of bhoot jolokia – one of the hottest chillies in the world.
Tribal woman ushers in organic farming in India’s last village
In Madhupur, a village in Assam close to the Bhutan border, an Adivasi woman’s successful switch to organic farming prompts the entire farming community to follow suit.
Student initiative promotes green period products
Bleed Green, an initiative of the students of VidyaGyan school, aims to create awareness about the menstrual cup, an eco-friendly hygiene product for women.
Kotwalia women break menstruation taboo
If lack of water forced Kotwalia women to relieve themselves in the open, their ingrained mindset made menstruation taboo. With toilets and sanitation training, they now follow good menstrual hygiene.
Less methane means more income for Gujarat herders
A balanced diet programme to curb methane emission from livestock helps Gujarat’s pastoral communities get more income through reduced fodder intake and increased milk production.
Business becoming the buzzword for tribal youth in Gujarat
Though tribal youngsters are increasingly looking to start their own businesses, they face several challenges along the way. Providing the right support and guidance is helping them become successful entrepreneurs in Dang, Gujarat.