Gram Saksham
Following the successful implementation of the Gram Seva programme, the SBI Foundation partnered with ACRD in November 2022 to launch the Gram Saksham initiative across 10 villages in Baksa district, including those previously part of the Gram Seva programme. This project aimed to create alternative livelihood opportunities for disadvantaged women through sustainable pig rearing practicesin villages of – Doomni, Dekadong, Ahopa, Sonapur, Arnibil, Subansri, Palasguri, Naharbari, Bhogpara, and Narayanpur.
In the initial phase, each member of 10 Self Help Groups (SHGs), comprising 10 members each, received one Hampshire female piglet from ACRD. Additionally, one member from each SHG was selected to receive an additional male piglet for breeding purposes. Beneficiaries committed to returning one piglet after it reached 2-3 months of age, ensuring sustainability and benefiting other community members. ACRD supported beneficiaries in constructing pig sheds, providing pig rearing training, insurance coverage, and health supplements to enhance productivity and reduce mortality.
The project's success was cemented by strong community participation, ensuring that investments in community assets were sustainable. Pig rearing, known for its profitability and low maintenance in Assam's rural economy, significantly boosted beneficiaries' incomes.
In February 2024, ACRD expanded the Gram Saksham project in collaboration with the SBI Foundation to 20 villages, including 10 new ones such as Lafakuchi, Rampur, Matipur, Manikpur, Amarawati, No 1 Katligaon, No 1 Katligaon, Uzirbari, Adalbari and Chanbarikhuti. Over 20 months, ACRD plans to form 40 pig rearing groups involving 400 women. The project includes comprehensive support like vaccination, deworming, insurance, and supplements for the pigs. Beneficiaries will also receive training, market linkages, exposure visits, and participate in pig melas to raise awareness and generate additional income.