Research at Development Support Centre

LARA ( LIVELIHOOD AUGMENTATION IN RAINFED AREAS ) Strategies Based on Natural Resource Management Entrepreneurial Strategies for Augmenting Rural Livelihoods Catching the Virtual Bus : ICT for Augmenting Rural Livelihoods Creating Social Capital for Livelihood Interventions WATERSHED Research Studies / Research Papers Research Studies by Students/ Research Papers PARTICIPATORY IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT [PIM] Research Studies / Research Papers Research Studies by Students/ Research Papers Proceedings OTHERS / GENERAL Research Studies / Research Papers Research Studies by Students/ Research Papers Workshop/ Seminar Reports Monograph/ Papers Best Practice Series Articles BOOKS DSC's COMMUNICATION MATERIALS Watershed Participatory Irrigation Management [PIM] ONGOING RESEARCH STUDIES LEPNRM Enhancing Rural Livelihoods by Enriching Practice and influencing policy Strengthening Civil Society Participation in NRM

Research at Development Support Centre
This pamphlet presents in a nutshell why and how DSC conducts research and delineates the stages in research process at DSC. It then provides a list of research studies done up to May 31, 2005.

Rationale for Research

• To find out whether the particular problem is area-specific or universal
• To build up argument/ support for policy advocacy through a detailed case study
• To gauge how well the stated objectives are met when of the scheme is implemented:
• What problems are encountered and if there are any policy implications arising out of the field situation.
• To study people's priorities/requirements for development as against those assumed on their behalf of the people by development agencies
• To determine the need and the scope for placing farmers' priorities on the agenda of agricultural enhancement programmes in watershed villages

Methodology

• Reliance on primary data
• Data collection through participatory rural appraisal exercises
• Supplemented by focus group discussions and personal interviews

Thematic Areas

• Rural Development - General
• Watershed Development
• Participatory Irrigation Development
• Agricultural Productivity Enhancement and Value addition
• Joint Forest Management

Geographical Areas of Research

• Mainly Gujarat State, with focus on areas with problem of natural resources
• DSC has co-ordinated two national level studies

Impact of Research

• Consequences on recommendation for policy reforms
• Policy Changes
• Changes in Practice

Stages in Research Project

• Identification of the Problem
• Preparation of Research design which includes Literature Review, Problem Definition, Selecting Methodology, Identifying Researchers, , Selection of Study Sites, Budget and Timetable
• Data Collection
• Analysis and Interpretation of data
• Report preparation
• Presenting Report to policy makers and others for Feedback
• Publication of Report
• Dissemination of Research through Publication, Policy Advocacy where appropriate, Practice change where necessary, and Using findings in training.    Top

LIVELIHOOD AUGMENTATION IN RAINFED AREAS

• Strategies Based on Natural Resource Management. (DownLoad)
  Removal of poverty and hunger is the first of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) adopted by the United Nations. About 400 million rural poor reside in about 200 poorest districts of the country that constitute rainfed areas.
  
  
• Entrepreneurial Strategies for Augmenting Rural Livelihoods. (DownLoad)
  With the Green Revolution areas showing signs of fatigue, and public investments in rainfed regions not yielding the desired results, Indian agriculture once again finds itself at the crossroads. The crisis of productivity in agriculture is linked to an impending crisis of food security, reminiscent of the PL-480 days, prior to the Green Revolution.
  
  
• Catching the Virtual Bus : ICT for Augmenting Rural Livelihoods. (DownLoad)
  guidelines of April 2008, as guiding principles for implementing the programme. The new guidelines give due recognition to the need for improving rural livelihoods through participatory watershed development, with the focus on integrated farming systems for enhancing income, productivity and livelihood security in a sustainable manner.
  
  
• Creating Social Capital for Livelihood Interventions (DownLoad)
  If one looks at the overall agricultural pattern across the country, almost 85 million ha, that is, about 60% of the 142 million ha of cultivable land is under rainfed conditions. These make a significant contribution to the production of pulses, oil seeds and cereals in the country. Public investment in irrigation has steadily declined. In addition, even if the entire irrigation potential of the country is developed, 50% of the arable land is likely to remain rainfed. There is, therefore, an urgent need to give attention to improving the agricultural productivity and diversifying the economy of these areas.

WATERSHED

    Research Studies / Research Papers:

• Advantage Regained, Joydeep Sen, Preface by Anil C. Shah, May 2005. 45p.(DownLoad)
  Part- IV of the longitudinal study comparing and measuring the impact of drought on watershed and non-watershed villages in drought affected districts of Gujarat. Longitudinal study is being conducted in the same 16 watershed and non-watershed villages every year for the last four years. This paper highlights that watershed village quickly regained their advantage over non-watershed villages when there is good rainfall year after series of drought years, However in the case of non-watershed villages the extent of recovery is low.
• Equity in Benefit Distribution in Watershed, Joydeep Sen, May 2005. 50p.(DownLoad)
  Participatory watershed guidelines emphasised on providing benefits of watershed to the resource poor and deprived communities through income generation and involvement in watershed programme. This paper critically examines who benefits from watershed programme. In this paper an attempt has been made to understand whether women, landless, small and marginal farmers are gaining from the watershed intervention. The study also finds out what is the proportion of investment for generating individual and common benefits.
• Maintenance of Physical Assets in Watershed, Vaibhav Chaturvedi, Preface by Anil C. Shah, April 2005. 55p. (DownLoad)
  Under the watershed programme various assets are created in both public and private land. Ensuring proper maintenance of watershed assets is imperative for ensuring continuous return from the high investment made in creating these assets. The objectives of the study are to find out the present state of maintenance of private and public assets in the post implementation period, ascertain the status of fund, meant for the maintenance of the public assets. The status brought out the need for a regime to be established for the maintenance of physical assets at the village level and how the contribution collected for watershed development can be better utilised for post project maintenance and enhancement of the livelihoods of the rural communities.
• Cost Benefit Analysis of Watershed Development: an exploratory study in Gujarat, Vaibhav Chaturvedi, Preface by Anil C. Shah, March 2005. 84p. (DownLoad)
  The watershed programme under Ministry of Rural Development is implemented since 1994 and after 10 years it is opportune time to assess what is the benefit in relation to the substantial cost in watershed implementation .The objective of this study is to calculate costs incurred in terms of structures created, human resource cost, administrative expenses incurred under the watershed project against which to measure in money terms the tangible and intangible benefits.
• Drinking water security in watershed villages, Rushabh Hemani and Manju Ravi, Preface by Anil C. Shah, August 2004. 27p. (English/ Gujarati). (DownLoad)
  One of the objectives of the watershed programme is ensure drinking water security in the watershed villages. This study explores what is the status of drinking water security in the watershed villages. One of the major findings suggests that in the watershed villages drinking water security has not been given adequate priority in the watershed planning and implementation. The founding and recommendations of the study led to modifications of the watershed guidelines of Ministry of rural development.
• Advantage Declined: Part III of A Longitudinal Study of Sixteen Drought-prone Villages of Gujarat, Anil C. Shah, April 2004. 29p.(DownLoad)
  Part III of the longitudinal study comparing and measuring the impact of drought on watershed and non-watershed villages in drought affected districts of Gujarat. This paper highlights that when the drought condition continues for more than two/three years, watershed villages lose their advantage over non-watershed villages. This paper critically brings out declining advantage of watershed villages in continuing drought years.
• Policy Changes That Didn't Work: Forestland in Watershed, Preface by Anil C. Shah, October 2003. 25p.(DownLoad)
  Scientific treatment of watershed is to begin the treatment of the watershed at the ridge and then come down to the valley. Under the ridge to valley approach forestland that are in the ridge has to be treated. In the 1994 watershed guidelines there was no provision for treatment of forestland. Therefore Government of India issued instructions in 1998 that specified that PIA's should also treat the forestland under Joint Forest Management programme. This paper reports the finding that the revised guideline is not being implemented.
• Advantage Watershed (In the second year of drought), Anil C. Shah, May 2002. 24p.(DownLoad)
  Part II of the longitudinal study comparing and measuring the impact of drought on watershed and non-watershed villages in drought affected districts of Gujarat. Findings of this study indicate that in the second year of drought the watershed village continues to enjoy advantage over non-watershed villages.
• Eloquent "Silent" Revolution (In the first year of drought), Anil C. Shah, 1999-2000. 23p.(DownLoad)
  The hypothesis of this study was that watershed villages have advantage over non-watershed villages in drought prone areas. This is the first study to test the hypothesis for the comparison and measurement of the impact of drought on watershed and non-watershed villages in drought-affected districts of Gujarat-the original study that later became Part I of the Longitudinal Study.
• Scope for Federation of Watershed Associations, Rana Alok Singh, 2003. 35p. [Unpublished].(DownLoad)
  This study was conducted to find out the feasibility of federating the watershed associations for taking up 'Watershed Plus' activities. This study looks critically into the functioning of federations of agriculture-based village level institutions with an emphasis on their financial viability and support provided by promoting non-governmental organizations.
• Catalysing Village Level Institute for Natural Resource Management, Lisa Armstrong, E.M.Shasidharan, Pankaj Kumar, 1997-98. 73p. [Unpublished]
  Documentation of different models and mobilization process operationalised by different NGOs throughout India, identification and prioritisation of variables contributing to the success and sustainability of village institutions in managing natural resources, and arriving at design principles that could be adapted on wider scale without impinging on area specific factors.       Top
• Impact Assessment of Watershed Programme on Tribal and Other Backward Communities in Sabarkantha District, CfID, December 2006,CfID. 55 p...
  DSC has been working as a Project Implementation Agency (PIA) for the watershed programme of the Ministry of Rural Development, GoI in Meghraj and Modasa Blocks of Sabarkantha district. This programme has four watershed projects across seven villages covering 2055 hectares of land. It was felt that DSC as an implementing agency, there is a danger of losing sight of the main objective. So the CfID, an independent organization, has carried out an impact assessment study of the projects and also suggest the scope for future interventions. The primary objective is to analyze as to what extent the programme has been able to achieve the objective of improved livelihood through natural resource development.

    Research Studies by Students/ Research Papers:

• Impact Assessment of Development Support Centre's (DSC) Intervention in Watershed management on Livelihoods of the Rural Communities, Siddhartha Gupta, 2005. 83p.
  Watershed programme aims at improving the livelihoods of the rural communities. This pilot study was conducted in one village of Dhari Taluka of Amreli district, Gujarat where DSC has implemented watershed programme. The objectives of this study were to identify the various stakeholders (only from the village communities), primary and secondary, in the watershed development programme. Identify their existing sources of livelihoods with the respective contributions to their overall household economy. Identify the various institutions affecting their livelihoods and the specific effect of the institutions formed under the watershed development programme, and their inter-relationships.
• Cost Benefit Analysis of Watershed Programme, Sachin Kumar, 2003. 89p.
  The pilot study was conducted in Rampur and Hirava villages of Dhari block of Amreli district, Gujarat. The main objectives of the study were to identify and estimate the direct benefits and costs involved in the watershed development program implemented in the study, Also to understand and analyse benefits of watershed development program.
• Maintenance of Physical Assets: Role of Village Institutions (Part I), Sachin Kumar Badkas, 2003. 57p
  An examination of the initiatives taken by user groups and village institutions to manage the physical assets created under watershed programme. The study was conducted with the following objectives to understand the expected role of PIA / PRI / WA / WC / UG, understanding / awareness of each of these of their role, the actual roles being played by each in the maintenance of assets post project and the consequence of not maintaining the physical assets.
• Comparative Analysis of Panchayati Institutions and Other Agencies as Project Implementation Agencies in Watershed Development, Aman Gupta, 2002. 68p.
  The study is a comparative analysis of the performance of government organisations, non-governmental organisations, and panchayati raj institutions as project implementing agencies of watershed programmes.
• Impact Assessment of Watershed Programmes Implemented by DSC, Ritesh Kumar Sinha, 2002. 130p.
  Examination of the economic and social impact of watershed development project and people's participation in project related activities in the villages of Dhari taluka, Amreli district.
• Lessons from the Field vis-à-vis MoRD Guidelines in Watershed Development Programmes with Reference to Inclusion of Forestland in the Watershed Development Area, Shailesh Mujumdar, 2002. 128p.
  An enquiry into whether the ridge to valley principle of watershed development which requires treating forestland within the watershed is adhered to by project implementing agencies as prescribed in the guidelines.
• A Detailed Report on Impact Assessment of Training in Watershed Development Organisation, DSC (Ahmedabad), Smita Nariyal, 2001-02. 106p.
  DSC is one of the institutes recognised by Government of Gujarat for training the watershed functionaries. Therefore it was important for DSC to understand Impact of DSC's training on its participants and the scope for its improvement. The objectives of this study were assessing trainee familiarity with concepts and processes of watershed development programme; investigating the extent to which participants have tried to operationalise approaches/concepts/practices learned during training; determining the extent to which participants disseminated the information/concepts. Ascertain current and future training needs of PIAs in terms of topic and methodology.
• Application of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Participatory Natural Resource Management: An Exploratory Study, Asif Pradhan, 2001. 118p.
  An examination of the use of remote sensing technology (RST) in watershed planning by government and non-government organisations, especially the sequencing when the RST is used with the participatory approach.
• A Study in Self Help Groups, Delna Karanjia, 1999. 33p.
  The study looks into the contributions of Self Help Groups in ensuring equitable distribution of benefits in watershed programme implemented by DSC and achievement of long term goals set by DSC.    Top

  PARTICIPATORY IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT [PIM]:

    Research Studies / Research Papers:

• Best Practices on MNREGS Assisted Canal Rehabilitation under Participatory Irrigation Management in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh (DownLoad)
• Study on designed capacity of Dharoi dam vs actual command area irrigation (DownLoad)
• Cost Benefit Analysis of Participatory Irrigation Management. (DownLoad)
  Many researchers have exhibited the benefits of the Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM) efforts, e.g. increase in area irrigated, less number of conflicts, better service delivery, improvement in maintenance of irrigation systems, etc. But most of the studies have not followed the ‘Cost Benefit Analysis’ approach that compares the quantified benefits in money terms with the investment incurred over a period of time. Comparison of benefits with costs, can give a reliable idea about the monitory benefit of the investments in the PIM programme. Thus this study is an effort to quantify benefits against the investment w.r.t the case of Dharoi irrigation project, visnagar, Gujarat.
• Water for Domestic use on Irrigation Cooperative’s Agenda. (DownLoad)
  Although women are among of the main stakeholders in natural resources, they neither stake their claim on NR, nor participate in their management readily. For instance, women do not use canal water to meet their domestic needs; in their perception canal water is meant solely for agriculture. However, if they were allowed to use this resource, life would become easier for them. As they are unlikely to articulate their needs and interests on their own, women’s needs have to be brought out by someone else. In Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM) villages, women do not participate in canal irrigation management though they are directly or indirectly involved in agriculture activities. Thus, there is a need to encourage them to put forward their needs and stake their claim on canal water and participate in its management. With this intension Development Support Centre tried of involving them through construction of washing ghat on the bank of the canal. The case is about how women were involved throughout the process of construction; what are their achievements; what are their learnings etc.
• Farmer Managed water distribution through Irrigation Cooperatives:the case study of Dharoi Irrigation Project,Gujarat
  The irrigation management activities that are transferred to the farmers after intervention of Participatory Irrigation Management in mid 90’s, include: Water distribution management- planning for the appropriate crop; water charge fixation; collection;,water distribution systemrepair and maintenance of the physical structures, and conflict resolutionamong users.
  The farmers, through the Water User Associations (WUAs) registered as Irrigation Cooperatives in Gujarat, are involved in the planning of all functions transferred to them, including distribution of water. The efficiency and sustainability of an Irrigation Cooperative (IC) depends on its decision making as well as set of norms and rules developed on the basis of the collective wisdom of its members. Several ICs in the Dharoi irrigation system have performed very well on these counts, since the time they were rejuvenated in mid-nineties.  Thus few successful cases of Dharoi are documented.
  
• Financial viability of irrigation co-operatives: an exploratory study in Gujarat, Vaibhav Chaturvedi, Preface by Anil C. Shah, June 2004. 54p. (DownLoad)
  Irrigation cooperatives at minor level are important institutions that have a pivotal role in success of Participatory Irrigation Management. Therefore it was important to examine the financial viability of the canal water users association. Financial viability of the irrigation cooperatives implies that they are able to generate enough income to meet their regular and emergency expenses and at the same time invest adequately in the maintenance and repair of the canals. The objectives of the study were to identify and analyse the critical factors for financial viability, elicit the conscious steps taken by the supporting agency and farmers for ensuring the financial strength of these ICs and develop recommendations for fostering and enhancing financial viability of the ICs and ensuring proper and regular maintenance & repairs.
• Tail-enders and other deprived in canal irrigation system (Overall summary), Preface by Anil C. Shah, DSC, 2003. 178p.
  DSC conducted a state level study of Gujarat entitled " Deprived" to understand the plight of the tailend farmers in any canal irrigation system. "The Deprived" brought out the fact that in most of the cases tailenders are deprived of the benefits of the canal water as farmers in the head and middle reach capture more water than their share. Therefore to understand the situation of tailend farmers on a national level this study was scaled up and study was conducted in other five states. A summary of the study of the extent and the causes of deprivation of tail-enders and other deprived in Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Orissa and Tamil Nadu.
• Women, Water, Irrigation, Anil C. Shah, March 2001. 19p.(DownLoad)
  Involvement of women in the affairs of water Users Association is considered important for improving the canal management. This paper is an examination of two issues: 1. How canals can serve better women's priorities for domestic use of water and 2. What women can do to improve canal management and functioning of Water Users Associations?
• The Deprived: In the Command Area of Irrigation System, Anil C. Shah, August 2000. 21p.(DownLoad)
  DSC through its experience of promoting PIM realised that tailend farmers in the canal irrigation system are deprived of their due share of water and at times they don't get any water. Therefore DSC found this deprivation existed at the end of various parts of the irrigation system.
• Mohani May Fail Again, Anil C. Shah, Pankaj Kumar, Pinakin Vyas 1999. 16p.(DownLoad)
  Mohani is an irrigation cooperative in the command area of Ukai projct of Surat district of Gujarat, India. Mohani is a legendary irrigation cooperative that functioned exceptionally well for 10 years from its inception in 1978. Mohani was role model for other irrigation cooperatives and was the acclaimed in the Sixth and Seventh Five Year Plan. However, after 10 years of success this society faced disruption. DSC was asked by a high level working committee to study the case of Mohani. This paper is an examination of the reasons for the initial success and subsequent problems of Mohani Water Users Association and lessons that could be learnt by others.    Top

   Research Studies by Students/ Research Papers

• Impact Assessment of Development Support Centre's Intervention in Participatory irrigation Management on the Livelihoods of Rural Communities, 2005. 71p.
  This is a pilot study of one PIM village with the objectives to identify the various stakeholders (only from the village communities), primary and secondary, in the PIM programme; identify their existing sources of livelihoods with the respective contributions to their overall household economy; identify the various institution, affecting their livelihoods and the specific effect of the irrigation cooperatives, and the interrelationships
• Social and Financial Viability of Institutional Management of Irrigation Systems, Vaibhav Chaturvedi, 2002. 82p.
  The main objective of the study was to assess the 'Social and Financial Viability of the Irrigation Cooperatives'. The secondary objective for the purpose of attainment of the main objective was identification of criteria for social and financial viability.
• Learning about Gender Issues in Irrigation, Michelle McCombs, 2000. 40p.
  The role and stakes of women in irrigation.    Top

    Proceedings:

• Proceedings of the Regional Workshop on Participatory Irrigation Management (DownLoad)
  This is the proceedings of the Regional workshop organized on 20th and 21st January 2006, was the first ever initiative taken by an NGO to create a forum for learning and sharing in a well defined workshop on PIM different from what is usually organized by Government, donors and many other academic institutions. The main agenda of the workshop were planned presentations on the working of PIM in 3 states of India: Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat based on the findings of about 50 sample Water User’s Associations in each state.
  Top
• Proceedings of the National Workshop on Tail-enders and Other Deprived in the Canal Irrigation System (DownLoad)
  The workshop was organized to discuss the findings of the research study on tailenders which was carried out in six states, namely Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Maharastra, Orissa and Tamil Nadu.
  Top

OTHERS / GENERAL:  

   Research Studies / Research Papers:

• Market Potential of American Sweet Corn in Gujarat. (DownLoad)
  A few years back, American Sweet Corn was something that was considered rare and exotic. Now, it is ubiquitous in supermarkets, at roadside vendors, at multiplexes and malls, entertainment zones, and food courts. Despite its huge potential, farmers are not being able to reap the real benefits from American Sweet Corn due to the lack of appropriate market information. Top
• Study on Rainfall Insurance in Jamnagar. (DownLoad)
  Risk is an indispensable but manageable element in agriculture. Revenues and incomes from agriculture can vary widely from year to year due to unforeseen weather, disease/pest infestations, and/or market conditions. When the unfavorable deviations in agriculture significantly reduce income in the short-term, there can be serious repercussions in the absence of effective risk management tools, especially when those deviations are systemic or coincident to the whole community.Top
• Cost-benefit Analysis of Joint Forest Management Programme Undertaken by Government and Non-government Agencies in Gujarat, Anil C. Shah, 2000-01. 49p.
  Exploration of the of real benefits enjoyed by the people, the array of costs in Joint Forest Management (JFM), and the perception of the common people and officials towards the JFM programme.    Top

    Research Studies by Students/ Research Papers:

• Comparative Analysis of Agricultural Productivity and System Efficiency of Different Modes of Irrigation, Maitreyi Mandal, 1999-2000. 120p. [Agriculture Productivity Enhancement].
  Comparison of agricultural productivity between different irrigation systems--private wells, tube wells, dug wells, community managed tube wells, and government-managed canals, and the factors responsible for the differences.
• Developing Tools for Cost Effectiveness Assessment of NGO Programmes: Case Study 3, Frances Sinha and Samir Garg, 1998. 66p.
  Testing the methodology for assessing cost effectiveness of the NGOs providing support or implementing livelihoods programmes.
• Development Support Centre, Training Unit Impact Assessment, Lisa Armstrong, 1998.38p.
  Assessment of the effectiveness of DSC's training programmes and their impact on the participants.    Top

    Workshop/ Seminar Reports:

• Bopal Declaration (DownLoad)
  The national meeting of eminent leaders of the country in the development areas endorsed eight principles that should be in place for the success of schemes of participatory management of natural resources.
• Proceedings of the Seminar on Non-Government Organisation (NGO) Accreditation. (DownLoad)
  On April 22, 2006, Sajjata Sangh had organised a seminar at the Development Support Centre (DSC), Bopal. The purpose was to explore the issue of evolving a rating system for NGOs. It was attended by policy makers, representatives from donor agencies, NGO leaders and academicians.
• Proceedings of the National Meeting on Non-negotiable Principles of Development & Management of Natural Resources in Sustainable manner, (Bopal Declarations), 16th January 2005, Development Support Centre at Bopal, Ahmedabad. 2005. 46p. (DownLoad)
  The national meeting of eminent leaders of the country in the development areas, endorsed eight principles. That should be in place for the success of schemes of participatory management of natural resources.
• Report of the workshop on Operationalizing participatory approaches in natural resource management, October 16-17, 2002. Held at EDI, Ahmedabad. Development Support Centre, Ahmedabad. 2002. Reprint. 40p. Top

    Monograph/ Papers:

• Sequential steps for empowering community organisations:(DownLoad)
  cost benefit approach to local developments by Anil C. Shah, Development Support Centre, Ahmedabad. 2004. 12p.
• Gamloko ne saksham karava matena krambaddha pagla:
  sthanik vikas mateno kharch-labh abhigam (Gujarati) by Anil Shah, Development Support Centre, Ahmedabad. 2005. 16p.
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    Best Practice Series:

• Operationalising the equity principle in watershed development AKRSP(I) approach. (DownLoad)
  This paper gives the steps that were followed by AKRSP (I) to ensure that benefits of development are equitably distributed. This paper will help the watershed implementers to get an idea about the processes which can be broadly considered so that marginalized and deprived sections in the watershed area are not left off.
• Opperetionalsing Ridge to Valley Approach In watershed, AKRSP (I) experience at Teliamba, Sagbara, Gujarat. (DownLoad)
  by Joydeep Sen, Development Support Centre, Ahmedabad. 2004. 16p.
• Integrated Approach in Watershed. AKRSP (I) approach at Motakakdiamaba, Gujarat. (DownLoad)
  Integration of various activities is very important to ensure that the benefits of the watershed development can be maximized. In this context this paper examines the factors which were considered in AKRSP (I) project at Motakakdiamba in Narmada district of Gujarat for integrating various activities in watershed.
• Importance of Gram Sabha in Watershed. AKRSP (I) experience at Mokasar. (DownLoad)
  Regular Gram Sabha is considered as the one of the factors that can help in transparency and increased participation of community in watershed implementation. This paper presents why it is necessary to regularly conduct Gram Sabha and what are its benefits.    Top

    Articles:

• Rules Regime For Institutional Sustainability. (DownLoad)
  Umashankar Joshi, the renowned Gujarati poet, sought blessings that in independent India, the leaders who are in the forefront to shoulder responsibilities for the nation would be the last in the line to garner benefits.
• The Journey Downhill. (DownLoad)
  Few people would be as fortunate as I have been. At sixteen, I was already a volunteer fighting for India’s independence movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. I was sent to prison but released before I completed my sentence so that I can resume my university education. But the British had not yet left India.
  
• Whither Common Property Resources, Anil C. Shah, 1997-98.(DownLoad)
  A study of problems of common lands -- found to be exhausted with over-exploitation and widely encroached upon -- and problems in their protection, restoration and development because of the indifference of the villagers in Junagadh and Bharuch districts in Gujarat.
• Wheat Research and Farmers, Anil C. Shah, 1997. 7p.(DownLoad)
  A comparison of characteristics kept in view by researchers and farmers while selecting wheat seeds.    Top

BOOKS

• In the hands of the People: Selected papers of Anil C. Shah, Ed. By Sudarshan Iyengar and Indira Hirway, Development Support Centre, Ahmedabad. 2001. 360p. Rs. 300/-
• In the hands of the People: Vol. II by Anil C. Shah, Development Support Centre, Ahmedabad. 2005. 198p. Rs. 150/-
• Loksahyogthi Vikas Bhani: Shri Anil Shah na lekhono sanchay Comp. By Mansukh Salla, Navbharat Sahitya Mandir, Ahmedabad. 2004. 258 p. Rs. 200/- (Gujarati)
• Vikas ne Varela: Shri Anil Shah na lekhono sanchay Compiled By Sanjay Dave, Navbharat Sahitya Mandir, Ahmedabad. 2004. 116p. Rs. 100/- (Gujarati)
• Samullas Nisbat: Selected varied writings by Shri Anil Shah Compiled By Mansukh Salla, Gurjar Grantha Ratna Karyalaya, Ahmedabad. 2005. 232p. Rs. 150/- (Gujarati).    Top

DSC's COMMUNICATION MATERIALS  

   Watershed:

• Sajeev: booklet, This colourfully illustrated and easy-to-understand booklet can help village institutions and village level workers understand the concept behind participatory watershed management. It explains this participatory program, Including planning, implementation, monitoring and maintenance.1997. 24p. Rs. 15/- (Gujarati)
• Lalak : Participatory processes in watershed development - VCD, This Video provides general information on the role of people’s institutions and local level workers in participatory watershed programs. It shares the experiences, successes and lessons leaned from the work of natural resource management of NGO’s working in Gujarat.50 Min. Rs. 100/- (Gujarati)
• Jal - Jeevan no Dhabkar: A technical manual for water harvesting structures - VCD, A technical manual on water harvesting structures(for watershed).This film discusses technical aspects of watershed management, including the design, construction and site selection of check dams and nala plug.45 Min. Rs. 100/- (Gujarati)
• Compilation of orders of the Government of India & Gujarat on Watershed Management, This is a compilation of orders of the government of India & Gujarat on watershed management.1999. 50p. Rs. 75/- (Gujarati)
• Checkdam ane Nala Plug Margdarshika, This manual is an effort to explain technical details of Checkdam and Nalla Plug design and construction in an easy to understand language using diagrams, photographs and practical examples. It presents the complex theme of designing of water harvesting structures in a simplified way keeping in mind the participatory nature of the watershed development project.2001. 52p. Rs. 75/- (Gujarati)
• Sajeev: poster / sticker, The Participatory watershed development program logo can be put up around the village by member of the village institution to increase awareness and support or this program. An illustrated explanation of a watershed, the geo-hydrological unit that drains rain water at a common point and includes forest, agricultural and wasteland. Rs. 10

    Participatory Irrigation Management [PIM]:

• Chalo, Uthao Bidu Khedu: Participatory irrigation Management - VCD, This film introduces PIM and details some positive experiences of irrigation cooperative societies in Gujarat and Maharashtra. It explains that with support and guidance irrigation societies made up of local farmers can manage irrigation canals more effectively than the state and increase agricultural production.28 Min. Rs. 100/-(Gujarati)
• Kiyadar ni Vat: Sahabhagi sinchai vyavasthanun safal drashtant - VCD, Dhroi Irrigation Project in North Gujarat covers village Kiyadar as a part of its command, which had not seen water in canal system since the completion o f the project. Looking to the success of PIM in neighboring Rangpur and Thalota village these villagers decided to adopt PIM.Irrigation cooperatives was formed with the support and guidance of DSC.Farmers contributed through voluntary labour and cash towards the cost of rehabilitation of canal. MoU was signed between IC and Irrigation Department to take over management of canal irrigation. Villagers were happy to have water in their canals after such huge efforts. Irrigation co-operatives involved an efficient water distribution system. Adequate and timely water was available to the farmers, area under irrigation increased by 100 hac. and as a result the agricultural yield increase enough fodder got available for the cattle, villagers shown thorough understanding of collective effort and people participation. 35 Min. Rs. 100/- (Gujarati)
• State Government Bylaws for Irrigation Cooperative Societies and federations, This compilation is useful for those interested in forming irrigation co-operatives society and federation and who are involved in Supporting or facilitation.24p. Rs. 30/- (Gujarati / English)
• Sahbhagi Sinchai Vyavastha: booklet, Through simple language and clear illustrations, this booklet explains the concept of PIM, Govt. support to PIM programme in Gujarat, Various important Govt. orders and their Provisions, process etc. It also discuss in PIM development in Gujarat its and good examples, experiences set by the Irrigation co-operatives. This booklet is useful for the basic information of the programme to the individual.2003. 24p. Rs. 10/- (Gujarati)
• Paricipatory Irrigation Management: Compilation of Orders of the Government of Gujarat, Created in collaboration with the government, this book consolidates government orders on improving irrigation infrastructure through PIM.2nd Edition, 1999, 93p. Rs. 125/- (Gujarati/English)
• PIM - Posters/ Stikers, This set of five posters provides basic information on the PIM process through pictures and slogans. PIM logo useful for creating awareness of the program. Rs. 50/-  Top

ONGOING RESEARCH STUDIES

1. Impact of PIM on livelihoods of the rural communities- National level study
2. Impact assessment of watershed program in Gujarat state.
3. Role of watershed in drought proofing- 5th year of longitudinal study of watershed and non-watershed villages.
4. "Mapping farmers perception" Factors considered by farmers while choosing to become members of irrigation cooperative.
5. Best Practices in Watershed- 4
6. Water accounting in watershed (before and after watershed)
7. Identifying issues for improving the rural water supply in Liliya-Lathiya system in Amreli district
8. Developing target technologies for ensuring short-term economic benefits for meeting needs of marginal and small farmers.
9. Status of implementation of Government Orders in PIM in Gujarat .
10. Adressing the issue of lift irrigation in canal systems
11. Indentifying the constraints in the application of a sound technical approach for efficiency and sustainability of watershed program
12. Capacity building for effective implementation and sustainability of watershed program. Top

 LEPNRM (Livelihood Enhancement through Participatory Natural Resource Management) Top

1. LEPNRM 9 - Best Practices Series (DownLoad)
2. Enhancing Rural Livelihoods by Enriching Practice and Influencing Policy (DownLoad)
   During 8-12 August, 2011, Development Support Centre (DSC) and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) jointly organised a writeshop at Bopal, Ahmedabad in Gujarat involving potential case authors drawn from DSC. This write shop was facilitated by The Livelihood School, an academic institution promoted by BASIX group. The workshop helped to identify seven cases on various interventions initiated by DSC, which have contributed to improving practices in natural resource management at the field level and influencing policy at the state and national level. These cases form the crux of this book.
3. Strengthening Civil Society Participation in NRM (DownLoad)
   During 8 -12 August, 2011, SAJJATA SANGH and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) jointly organised a writeshop at Bopal, Ahmedabad in Gujarat involving potential case authors drawn from partner organisations of SAJJATA SANGH. This writeshop was facilitated by faculty members from The Livelihood School, an academic institution promoted by BASIX group. The workshop helped to identify six cases on various interventions initiated by SAJJATA SANGH, which have contributed to improving practices in natural resource management at the field level and influencing policy at the state and national level. These cases form the crux of this book.