Project Vasundhara

Any rural development program must address the issues of land use and environment, as these are the life-blood of the rural communities. Prithvi’s unique holistic / empowerment approach builds community awareness and power through its recognition of the importance of land utilization and conservation, as well as the vital role of village women in the application of sustainable development.

Prithvi is promoting the Vedic method of agriculture- Rishi Krishi Deshpande Technique in a vigorous way. Prithvi team encourages farmers in the surrounding villages to join the “Farmer’s Clubs” to be a part of this movement. This is a zero budget farming, self sustainable, and 100% natural Organic

Agro forestry projects are being initiated, utilizing the available local resources and the current agriculture patterns. Experimental farming is encouraged to demonstrate new cropping alternatives, establishing broader horizons for farmers. Cooperative initiatives along with direct marketing are introduced to fetch better prices and reduce internal competition within the community. Promotion of organic farming is being initiated on a large scale, based on local cooperation. Organic fertilizers for regional crops and composting initiatives are being promoted on a large scale.

Common farming plots, or individual small plots for women to cultivate their own produce are initiated through Paras Baag (kitchen gardens) initiatives. Local indigenous products and processing are being developed to create avenues to use local resources and generate income for the women.

Water is a crucial and complex issue in rural communities. Safe drinking water and waste management, both directly related to women and their daily chores, are at the core of the Prithvi environmental project. In the growing pollution and waste infested world, many environmental programs fail because they are not “women friendly.” In many programs, the needs of the women are not considered, or are pushed off to the side. Women, the caretakers of the home environment, need to be directly involved through a participatory approach to environmental rejuvenation.