In collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), The Art of Living has embarked on a transformative journey to uplift tribal communities across India. Through innovative initiatives and strategic partnerships, significant strides have been made in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, preserving indigenous knowledge, and fostering economic empowerment among tribal populations.
Strengthening Agriculture in Aurangabad
One of the flagship initiatives under this collaboration is the sustainable development project launched in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, in 2020. The project focuses on training 10,000 farmers in natural farming techniques, aimed at enhancing productivity through traditional practices. This training not only empowers farmers with essential skills but also promotes environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on chemical inputs.
Empowering women
A key highlight of the initiative is its focus on women’s empowerment within tribal communities. Innovative income-generating programs, such as the production of seed rakis using desi seeds, provide women with meaningful economic opportunities. These initiatives not only contribute to financial independence but also foster community resilience and inclusive growth.
In addition to agricultural and economic empowerment, the initiative emphasises strengthening local governance through the training of Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members. Over 580 PRI members across 50 Gram Panchayats have been trained to enhance their awareness of Tribal Acts, Rules, and government welfare schemes. This initiative aims to empower local leaders to empower community driven development and ensure inclusive growth.
Solar Electrification in Tribal Areas
Beyond agriculture and governance, The Art of Living has also championed initiatives like solar electrification in remote tribal areas. For instance, in Uttarakhand, solar electrification efforts have brought electricity to 500 households in forest reserve areas inhabited by the Van Gujjar nomadic tribal communities. Similar efforts have also been extended to tribal communities in Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, and Jammu and Kashmir, providing them with sustainable energy solutions.
Inspired by globally acclaimed spiritual leader and humanitarian, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s vision, The Art of Living remains committed to enhancing the emotional, physical, and economic well-being of rural and tribal communities. Through strategic partnerships with governments, the private sector, multilateral organisations, and civil society, these initiatives continue to evolve, ensuring greater accountability and tangible benefits for beneficiaries.
This holistic approach not only addresses immediate socio-economic challenges but also lays a foundation for long-term sustainability and prosperity within tribal communities across India.
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