We started our work with Women Saving and Credit Groups (WSCG) in early years around ex-situ medicinal plant cultivation in MPPAs and Vermiconpost preparation for self use and selling via market channels developed. 90 hectare of forest land was cultivated under MPPAs by local community under JFM with support from Forest Department and GHNP. The main idea was to shift pressure and total dependence of communities on medicinal herb collection from the core zone of GHNP, to land parcels near the villages.
During 2008 and 2015 we have attempted cultivation of Germanium and Tagetes Minuta, with support CSIR-IHBT Pamalmpur. We also have 5 Qunital per day capacity processing unit for oil production in our premises. It is lying vacant at the moment due inability to source raw material and lack of external support.
Recently we have become part of Him-RRA network for the promotion of Millet farming, and natural farming in Banjar and Lug valley of Kullu. We regulary conduct workshops and training for local farmers for Kuth (Saussurea lappa) and Pusjkar Mool (Inula racemosa) cultivation in upper reaches of Banjar valley.
CFR and CFRR
Community forest duties and rights under FRA gives us an legal framework to build our efforts in reconnecting people with thier forest as its guardians and users
Natural Farming Residential Training session for farmers in KVK Bajaura
Local and traditional knowledge around forest and its resources is an important part of our lifestlye and culture, which must be revived along with restoration works
Jaivik Khaad (Natural inputs) preparation workshop at Sarchi GP, Tirthan valley
Kullu is called land of gods, and forest deities and sacred grave play key role towards biodiversity conservation
We are trying to set up Local Natural Farming Institute under central government scheme for Natural Farming with support from district Agricultural Department.
Oil Extraction plant for medicinal herbs
Setup with support of CSIR-IHBT Palampur
Beej Khoj Yatra with HimRRA in Mashiyar and Shili Panchayat at Tirthan valley, Banjar