The Project Monitoring & Review Committee of the Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP) convened on March 27th, 2024, at the office of the Relief & Development Department, Evangelical Assembly Church (RDD-EAC) in Churachandpur, Manipur. This committee oversees a project aimed at improving the livelihoods of tribal communities in Vangai Range, Pherzawl District.
Project Background:
- Project Name: TDF Project-200 for Integrated Wadi approach for sustainable promotion of their livelihoods
- Implementing Agency: RDD-EAC
- Project Goal: Economic development of 200 tribal families through sustainable natural resource management practices (“WADI” approach)
- Funding: NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development)
- Target Area: 11 villages in Vangai TD Block
Project Activities:
The ITDP follows a three-pronged approach:
- Capacity Building: Empowering local communities through training and exposure programs on improved natural resource management (NRM) techniques and environmental restoration.
- Orchard Development: Developing a 1-acre orchard program for each participating family. This program integrates horticulture, forestry, intercropping for food and income generation, and intensive cultivation of cash crops.
- Women’s Empowerment: Raising awareness about community health and overall well-being, with a specific focus on women.
Meeting Outcome:
The Project Monitoring & Review Committee reviewed the project’s progress and expressed satisfaction with its performance. Consequently, the committee recommended releasing the 6th installment of the grant amounting to Rs. 767,800 to RDD-EAC for continued project implementation.
Looking Ahead:
The ITDP’s positive performance is a promising sign for the economic upliftment of tribal communities in Vangai Range. The project’s emphasis on sustainable practices ensures not only improved livelihoods but also environmental well-being for the region.