Agriculture & Irrigation Development

Empowering Farmers, Securing Livelihoods

Agriculture is the lifeline of rural India, especially in tribal and backward regions of Jharkhand. However, poor irrigation facilities, declining soil health, climate vulnerability, and outdated techniques have severely affected farm productivity and income. At Pradan Foundation, we believe that a sustainable and inclusive model of agriculture can uplift entire communities.

Our Agriculture & Irrigation Development initiative focuses on enhancing farm productivity, water management, and agri-based livelihoods while promoting climate-resilient practices and farmer empowerment.

Core Objectives

  • Promote sustainable agriculture and increase productivity among tribal and small farmers

  • Ensure year-round irrigation through community water structures and micro-irrigation systems

  • Build capacity among farmers for scientific farming, soil health, and organic practices

  • Encourage multi-cropping, integrated farming, and livestock rearing

  • Facilitate access to financial institutions, agricultural experts, and market linkages

Key Components

Soil and Land Development

  • Promote System of Rice Intensification (SRI) and improved cropping systems

  • Train farmers in soil testing, organic inputs, composting, and crop rotation

  • Encourage vermi-compost units and green manure practices to restore soil health

2. Irrigation Infrastructure

  • Construct check dams, farm ponds, dug wells, and percolation tanks

  • Install drip irrigation, sprinklers, and water-lifting devices

  • Promote rainwater harvesting and roof water collection structures

  • Ensure equitable and sustainable usage of water through Water User Groups (WUGs)

3. Water Management & Multi-Cropping

  • Transition from mono-cropping to multi-cropping systems to maximize land usage

  • Introduce vegetable cultivation, pulses, spices, and oilseed farming

  • Train farmers on climate-smart practices to withstand drought and excess rainfall

4. Agro-based Livelihoods

  • Integrate farming with livestock, poultry, fishery, and horticulture

  • Promote pond-based farming, especially in tribal areas

  • Support farmers with seed banks, input kits, and marketing guidance

5. Farmer-Scientist Interface

  • Organize regular agri-expert meets, farmer field schools, and Kisan Melas

  • Facilitate dialogue between farmers, scientists, bankers, and extension workers

  • Encourage digital literacy in farming techniques and weather forecasting

Measurable Impact

  • Over 4,000 farmers trained in sustainable agriculture across Jharkhand

  • 80+ irrigation structures built, increasing water availability across 1,000+ acres

  • 35% increase in crop yield among trained SRI paddy farmers

  • 500+ families practicing integrated farming, improving income and nutrition

  • Reduction in seasonal migration due to improved agriculture-based livelihoods

Cultivating Prosperity

With the Agriculture & Irrigation Development program, Pradan Foundation is working towards a self-reliant and food-secure future. By equipping rural communities with the tools, knowledge, and infrastructure needed for productive farming, we are sowing the seeds of economic growth, sustainability, and dignity.

Together, we grow stronger. Together, we farm a better tomorrow.