Projects
Fodder security through grassland conservation
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In 2016, biodiversity conservation committees were established in 36 villages within the Gaolao region. These committees were tasked with recording local biodiversity, with a special focus on Gaolao cattle. Discussions and meetings were held to facilitate this process.
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Under the Gaolao cattle conservation initiative, natural grazing areas were identified in 22 villages, ensuring sustainable access to fodder and water resources. Additionally, six villages started using community land for fodder production.
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Through the biodiversity conservation committees, local participation was encouraged, leading to the cultivation of 2 lakh fodder trees in three villages (Danapur, Chopan and Gumgaon) during the 2022-23 period. There are plans to expand this initiative to nine more villages in the coming years.
Women SHG- Self Help Group
Under the Gaolao Breeders Association, we have formed women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in 17 villages to strengthen local livestock systems. Through community-led efforts, these SHGs focus on animal health, nutrition, and fodder management. Women are being trained as livestock resource persons, creating local expertise and support. The groups also work towards conserving and sustainably managing the indigenous Gaolao breed. By combining traditional knowledge with scientific practices, the initiative promotes resilient and self-reliant livestock systems. Women play a central role in improving livestock care, ensuring better livelihoods and stronger rural communities.
Technical support was provided by Centre for People’s Collective, Nagpur, Maharashtra
Community Forest Rights under - Forest Rights Act 2006
We collaborated with local livestock rearers to file Community Forest Rights (CFR) claims with the Sub-Divisional Level Committee (SDLC). Till now, claims have been filed for six villages, and many more are in progress.
This effort will support traditional livestock communities in securing access to forest fodder. It strengthens their role in sustainable forest and pasture management.
The CFR process empowers pastoralists to assert their rights over customary grazing areas. We are proud to be part of this crucial step for ecological and livelihood resilience. The Gaolao breed, deeply tied to forest and commons-based systems, will benefit immensely.
Technical support was provided by the Centre for People’s Collective, Nagpur, and CFP, Delhi.
CFRs help ensure year-round access to grazing, reduce fodder scarcity, and support herd mobility. They also recognize the traditional knowledge of livestock rearers in managing forest ecosystems.
