Action for Agricultural Renewal In Maharashtra (AFARM)

AFARM (Action for Agricultural Renewal in Maharashtra) is a collective platform that strengthens grassroots NGOs, empowers rural communities, and promotes sustainable development in Maharashtra. With a commitment to social equity, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience, AFARM’s vision is to facilitate the mainstreaming of marginalized rural populations by enhancing their access to knowledge, skills, resources, and government services.

Major Interventions:

Sustainable Agriculture and Livestock Development: To combat challenges like soil degradation and high input costs, AFARM promotes climate-resilient, low-input farming practices. It trains farmers in organic methods, mixed cropping, soil health management, and efficient irrigation. Livestock development is also supported through good animal husbandry practices and doorstep veterinary services via community-based resource persons.

Micro Enterprises and Rural Development: Through entrepreneurship training, financial linkages, and market exposure, it nurtures micro-enterprises in the farm, livestock, and non-farm sectors. Women and youth are key participants, contributing to household income and strengthening local economies.

Education and Capacity Building: AFARM fosters educational advancement by building the capacities of rural youth, women, and community institutions. It provides skill development training in agriculture, enterprise management, and digital literacy. Community cadres like Krushidoots and Digital Sakhis ensure knowledge transfer, promote informed decision-making, and facilitate access to government schemes, creating a foundation for informed, empowered, and self-sustaining communities.

Watershed Development: It implements soil and water conservation practices, revives water harvesting structures, and promotes afforestation and agroforestry. It enhances land productivity, ensure protective irrigation, and improves water availability, especially in drought-prone and rainfed regions. Participatory water budgeting and community engagement strengthen resource governance and long-term sustainability.