Promoting Agro-Forestry

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Horticulture Seedlings

  • Project

    Promoting AGRO-FORESTRY

  • Project Period

    2022 - 2023

  • Supported by

    Rabo Bank Foundation, Co-operative Rabo Bank U.A Mumbai, Maharashtra.

  • Operational Area

    Bhongir Mandal, Yadadri - Bhuvangiri district, Telangana State

Objectives:

  • Increasing biodiversity, improving soil health, and enhancing water conservation/retention have been significant achievements from implementing innovative agro-forestry practices. These initiatives have provided farmers with a sustainable and additional source of income. Agro-forestry has played a crucial role in introducing diverse crop varieties, promoting intercropping, and encouraging organic farming methods.
  • By focusing on soil health, agro-forestry practices have advocated for reduced chemical usage, promoting organic fertilizers and composting techniques that enhance soil fertility and structure. Water conservation measures such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and efficient water management systems have led to better water retention and reduced water wastage.
  • These sustainable practices not only improve farm productivity but also offer additional income sources for farmers through the sale of high-demand, sustainably grown products. The collective efforts in agro-forestry ensure that farmers can adopt and benefit from these environmentally friendly practices, securing their livelihoods and contributing to ecological balance.

Achievement :

  • A total of 7,112 horticulture seedlings, including Mango, Custard Apple, Guava, Lemon, and Neredu, were planted on 106 acres of land belonging to 75 small and marginal farmers, promoting agricultural diversity and sustainability.
  • To increase tree cover, 217 farmers planted 2,455 plants along farm bunds, which helps improve biodiversity and provides additional environmental benefits.
  • On community land, 6,954 seedlings were planted to meet biomass needs, supporting local energy requirements and contributing to environmental sustainability.
  • These agro-forestry efforts play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change and reduce associated risks by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
  • These initiatives not only support environmental health but also empower small and marginal farmers by improving land productivity and fostering community development through sustainable agricultural practices.

Goals:  Agro-forestry has created potential for low investment-based and more reliable economic returns for farmers. It has also contributed to meeting other important biomass needs like timber, fuel wood, fodder, and honey production. Farmers have successfully diversified their land use systems with a combination of annual and perennial tree/plantation crops. This diversification includes a range of horticultural fruit species mixed with vegetable crops. The training and in-field technical assistance provided under the project have enabled farmers to acquire valuable horticultural skills and knowledge.

G. Arundathi

President

G. Arundathi

President

G. Arundathi

President

2022 - 2023 - Audit Report

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2022 - 2023 - Audit Report

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

2022 - 2023 - Audit Report

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Objectives:

  • Increasing biodiversity, improving soil health, and enhancing water conservation/retention have been significant achievements from implementing innovative agro-forestry practices. These initiatives have provided farmers with a sustainable and additional source of income. Agro-forestry has played a crucial role in introducing diverse crop varieties, promoting intercropping, and encouraging organic farming methods.
  • By focusing on soil health, agro-forestry practices have advocated for reduced chemical usage, promoting organic fertilizers and composting techniques that enhance soil fertility and structure. Water conservation measures such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and efficient water management systems have led to better water retention and reduced water wastage.
  • These sustainable practices not only improve farm productivity but also offer additional income sources for farmers through the sale of high-demand, sustainably grown products. The collective efforts in agro-forestry ensure that farmers can adopt and benefit from these environmentally friendly practices, securing their livelihoods and contributing to ecological balance.

Achievement :

  • A total of 7,112 horticulture seedlings, including Mango, Custard Apple, Guava, Lemon, and Neredu, were planted on 106 acres of land belonging to 75 small and marginal farmers, promoting agricultural diversity and sustainability.
  • To increase tree cover, 217 farmers planted 2,455 plants along farm bunds, which helps improve biodiversity and provides additional environmental benefits.
  • On community land, 6,954 seedlings were planted to meet biomass needs, supporting local energy requirements and contributing to environmental sustainability.
  • These agro-forestry efforts play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change and reduce associated risks by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
  • These initiatives not only support environmental health but also empower small and marginal farmers by improving land productivity and fostering community development through sustainable agricultural practices.

Goals:  Agro-forestry has created potential for low investment-based and more reliable economic returns for farmers. It has also contributed to meeting other important biomass needs like timber, fuel wood, fodder, and honey production. Farmers have successfully diversified their land use systems with a combination of annual and perennial tree/plantation crops. This diversification includes a range of horticultural fruit species mixed with vegetable crops. The training and in-field technical assistance provided under the project have enabled farmers to acquire valuable horticultural skills and knowledge.

Training of MARI workers and Project staff of MARI

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Gaddala John, Executive Member

He brings unparalleled experience and empathy to his role, which stems from over four decades of dedicated work dedicated to uplifting the rural poor and downtrodden communities in Warangal District, Telangana State. His extensive personal and professional involvement in the region informs his profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by these communities.

 

As a devoted social worker, John has spearheaded various community development projects to empower marginalized and vulnerable groups. His nearly three-decade association with MARI has significantly contributed to the organisation’s growth and impact.

 

He remains actively engaged in executive functions, ensuring his valuable insights continue to influence MARI’s direction. His enduring commitment and adaptability highlight his dedication and inspire others in the sector.

Ramisetty Murali, M.S.W, Executive Director

He has 38 years of experience in social development and plays a crucial role in steering MARI towards remarkable achievements in social development work. His passion and expertise have been instrumental in assembling a robust team of professionals capable of executing diverse projects precisely, ensuring satisfaction among funding partners, beneficiaries, and stakeholders alike.

 

His comprehensive understanding of various development fields—including water management, environmental conservation,sustainable agriculture, livelihoods, gender and social equity, WASH, capacity building, and community mobilization—has consistently fostered trust and confidence among MARI’s partners. This trust is a testament to his ability to effectively align project goals with partners’ expectations and community needs.

 

Recognized as the most impactful personality in Telangana State, his contributions have not only elevated the organization’s status but also ensured it is seen as credible, democratic, transparent, and reliable. Under his leadership, the organization has earned numerous accolades, highlighting the significant impact of its initiatives on the targeted populations. His visionary leadership continues to guide the organization toward achieving its mission and enhancing its influential footprint in the development sector.

Kocherlakota Venkata Seshasai, Joint Secretary

He is an expert in financial management and statutory compliance, with extensive experience in the NGO sector. He has been actively contributing to systems development in MARI since 1998, dedicating over two decades of voluntary contribution to the organization. His deep understanding of NGO accounting intricacies and their applicability under the Income-tax Act, 1961, makes him an invaluable asset.

 

Venkata Seshasai’s commitment extends beyond financial oversight; he is deeply passionate about social development. His voluntary contributions significantly enhance MARI’s planning and implementation processes, ensuring both efficiency and compliance. His guidance is strategic and inspirational, fostering a culture of diligence and ethical accountability within the organization.

 

His steadfast presence and insight have helped shape the organisation’s success and integrity. Seshasai’s blend of expertise, dedication, and passion for social work enriches MARI’s mission and operational strength.

Kolisetty Rama Rao, Treasurer

He brings over 35 years of comprehensive experience in the development sector, enhanced by a robust academic foundation in Commerce and financial management. Throughout his illustrious career, he has developed an extensive knowledge of accounting practices specific to charitable institutions, working with several prominent national and international NGOs.

 

Rama Rao’s deep expertise in finance management has made him an invaluable resource for MARI, offering essential support and guidance that significantly benefits the organization’s financial operations and strategic planning. His reputation as a seasoned expert in the development sector is well-recognized, making him a key figure in various NGOs under different capacities.

 

Since joining MARI in 2011, his vast experience and expertise have been instrumental in advancing the organization’s goals and enhancing its operational effectiveness. Rama Rao’s long-standing association and contributions remain vital to MARI’s success and sustainability in pursuing its mission.

Suresh Kosaraju, Secretary

He is an agricultural professional with over three decades of experience in the development sector. His deep analytical skills in social issues have been precious in guiding MARI in the design and execution of impactful social development projects. Suresh is also a highly effective trainer and is respected for his passionate contribution to Manchi Pustakam. This initiative translates globally popular children’s books into Telugu,creating excellent pictorial books that encourage children to learn with joy and interest.His extensive experience and expertise have greatly enriched the organisation.

Tenneti Hema Nalini, Vice President, M.Sc. (Chemistry), M.Ed, LLB

She is an esteemed educator and a dynamic motivational speaker with extensive experience across various government colleges in Telangana. Known for her articulate speeches on social development issues, she brings a blend of academic rigor and passionate advocacy to her roles.

 

Her deep commitment to social work is not just a part of her life, it is her life. This is evident in her significant contributions to the Environmental Education programme implemented by MARI, where she demonstrated passion and effective leadership. Her involvement in this programme underscored her dedication to fostering sustainable practices and educating the community on environmental issues.

 

Subsequently, she joined MARI as an Executive Member, where she provided strategic direction and critical insights that significantly enhanced the organization’s vision and the development of various initiatives. Her role involves strategic oversight and active engagement with project sites, where she offers invaluable guidance to team members.

 

Her expertise and leadership remain vital to MARI, reinforcing the organization’s foundation with experienced and visionary guidance.

Gangula Arundathi, B.S.W., M.Ed., M.Phil (Dip) P.R., President

As a pioneer in the educational community, Gangula Arundathi has amassed over 40 years of experience in the field. Her role as the founder and head of Sanghamitra School is not just a business venture, but a testament to her vision of a nurturing environment dedicated to holistic student development. Since its establishment on March 27, 1990, Sanghamitra School has flourished into a prestigious institution, boasting a 34-year legacy that mirrors Arundathi’s unwavering commitment to excellence in education.

 

Arundathi’s commitment to community service and advocacy is as strong as her administrative prowess. She works closely with the Cyberabad Police Commissionerate to promote safety. She actively volunteers with Akshaya Vidya, an organisation that strives to educate children in urban slums, demonstrating her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the educational sphere.

 

Her influential role as an educator and community leader has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Brave Teacher award from the Cyberabad Police Commissioner. Arundathi is also a recognized voice in educational discourse, having shared her insights on platforms like TEDx and Josh Talks, further establishing her as a respected figure in both educational and professional circles.

 

At MARI, Arundathi brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a proven track record of impactful leadership, underlining the organization’s commitment to being led by a team of highly committed and reputed professionals.