India’s villages are not just homes to millions; rural villages are also the foundation of the nation’s growth. Yet, challenges such as poor infrastructure, low literacy, and limited health facilities continue to hold back rural life. Addressing the needs for village development requires a holistic approach that builds on local leadership, community ownership, and sustainable practices.

The story of Khursi village in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, illustrates how transformation is possible when communities take charge themselves with a little help. Backed by the HDFC Bank Parivartan Project in collaboration with S M Sehgal Foundation, Khursi demonstrates what true village development looks like.

What is Village Development?

Village development is the process of improving living standards in rural areas through better education, healthcare, agriculture, and livelihoods. This goes beyond infrastructure to empower people to make decisions about their own future. A village development officer (VDO) plays a formal role in implementing government programs, but local participation makes the real difference.

Khursi’s example highlights this. When a village development committee (VDC) was formed, residents began to plan their priorities: clean drinking water, improved farming, and women’s education. A blend of official support and community-led action shows how transformation becomes sustainable.

What are the Goals of Sustainable Development in Villages

The goals of sustainable development in villages include:

Khursi worked on each of these goals in a collective effort. For example, women took the lead in promoting kitchen gardens and nutrition games and activities that promote better family diets.

A Community-led Development Model

Community-led development means villagers identify problems, design solutions, and implement change. This model builds ownership, ensuring progress does not fade when outside support ends.

In Khursi, villagers decided together on their priorities. They demanded hand pumps for safe water, pushed for soil health training, and initiated a campaign against early marriage. The idea of participatory development was not new, but it came alive here because everyone had a voice.

Such community-based organizations ensure accountability. Unlike top-down approaches, local people are encouraged to see themselves not as beneficiaries but as changemakers.

Participatory Development and Empowerment of Women

One of the strongest lessons from Khursi is about the role of women. When women are empowered, entire communities change. Their involvement in village development committees shifted how decisions were made in her village.

These participatory methods align with the global push for women in leadership. In methods such as farmer field schools, women participated and helped bridge knowledge gaps. Women became trainers and motivators, demonstrating why women’s participation is critical for achieving rural development.

Agriculture and Traditional Practices in Transformation

Agriculture is the backbone of village life. Development cannot be imagined without strengthening farming. At Khursi, farmers returned to the valuable traditional agricultural practices, such as composting and crop rotation, and combined them with modern agriculture tools and techniques to produce better yields.

Through farmer field schools, they learned about soil testing, pest management, and water-saving irrigation. Practical sessions, such as using a board game about water to explain distribution and conservation, made learning easier. Farmers could see how blending old and new knowledge creates resilience against climate change. Such initiatives represent sustainable agriculture development, ensuring both productivity and environmental care.

Lessons from Capacity Development and Local Leadership

True village development depends on building skills, not just improved infrastructure. Capacity development had been a major step in Khursi. But training sessions in bookkeeping, sanitation, and nutrition turned local residents into problem-solvers.

Local leadership flourished. When men saw women confidently addressing meetings, their own perceptions shifted. Villagers began to respect decisions taken collectively. Community-based organizations anchored this momentum to ensure accountability and transparency.

The emergence of leaders from within—farmers, teachers, and women—proved that development is not imported, but nurtured.

Case study: Khursi’s transformation

Khursi’s journey is about people.

Consider Rukhsana, a mother of three. Earlier, she had little say in village matters. But as part of the Village Development Committee, she learned about clean water and sanitation. She became a motivator for other women, introducing nutrition games for adults in self-help groups to discuss balanced diets.

Farmers like Nafees also benefited. At farmer field schools, he learned to use agriculture tools for crop planning. He now grows vegetables using less water, and his income has doubled.

The children were not left behind either. Using education games and management puzzle games in school made learning interactive. Teachers noticed that attendance rose as students found joy in classrooms.

Each story painted a bigger picture: when villagers lead, change lasts.

What are the Major Challenges in Rural Development?

Rural development is vital for balanced growth, yet rural villages across India continue to face deep-rooted challenges that slow their progress. These challenges are not only about poverty but also about access, awareness, and opportunities. Some major issues include:

The Way Forward

The future of sustainable rural development lies in community-led models. Lessons from Khursi illustrate that when people unite, even small steps create large impact. Strengthening farmer field schools, building stronger women’s networks, and promoting participatory development helps to scale successes.

Technology plays a helpful role. Mobile-based advisory services, digital learning platforms, and even innovative crop games make knowledge sharing more effective. With youth involvement, villages move faster toward achieving sustainable goals.

The Bottom Line

Village development is the empowerment of people to create their future with dignity and sustainability. This empowerment is not just about better roads and buildings, but about building confidence, skills, and unity.

The story of Khursi proves that villages can become self-reliant when communities lead. From women in leadership to farmer field schools, every step built greater strength. The lesson is clear: with local leadership, participatory planning, and sustained effort, rural India can create their own transformations.

Priya Chaudhary
Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development

Priya Chaudhary is an expert in Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development with a focus on gender equity, social inclusion, and evidence-based change. With extensive experience in project management, storytelling, and qualitative research, she has worked on various NGO marketing and development projects.

The post Village Development Lessons from a Community-Led Transformation appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Picture a village buzzing with energy where every adult has a say in building their community’s future. Gram sabha presents the village community with the opportunity of local participation in various matters of local importance. But does it have the ability to change the destiny of India and transform it? The article tries to draw upon the questions of gram sabha’s potential and whether it is living up to it.

Is the gram sabha living up to its potential?

Gram sabha is the village’s ultimate democratic stage, where every adult voter (18 and above) in a village or group of villages under a gram panchayat gets a voice. No elections are needed, and if you’re a registered voter, you will get to participate in the process.

The gram sabha consists of this vibrant and diverse crowd, making it the heartbeat of local self-participation. But is it living up to its hype? How does gram sabha work? It empowers communities to tackle local issues, approve development plans, hold leaders accountable, and make need-based plans for the village.

Gram sabha vs gram panchayat: breaking it down

Both bodies are the result of the bifurcation of local administration, mentioned in Article 243(b), 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992. Gram sabha is a decision-making body that helps adult voters to brainstorm ideas to tackle problems and work for development. The gram panchayat is the elected body responsible for turning those ideas into reality.

Here is a simple breakdown of gram sabha vs gram panchayat:

Your Voice, Your Village: The Power of Gram Sabha

Gram Swaraj, as an idea of the self-reliant village, is a unique concept of rural reconstruction proposed by Mahatma Gandhi much before India’s independence that he developed over time.

To envision the power of Gram Swaraj, the gram sabha becomes the instrument to realize the power of people. The change that it brings to the whole community, if the people decide that collectively they can affect their local conditions. Gram sabha becomes the voice of the marginalized section of society, like women and “backward” classes, and breathes life into the vision of gram swaraj.

From prioritizing schools to auditing funds, the gram sabha has the potential to transform villages through community participation, but it needs active voices to shine.

Why gram sabha meetings spark change in society

What is the role of gram sabha in village administration? It’s the backbone of local self-participation, empowering villagers to shape their future.

The potential of gram sabha is immense; from being the harbinger of transparency as well as the voice of the community, it is also the point of contact for rural community participation.

Gram Sabha in Action: A Real Story from India

Organizations such as S M Sehgal Foundation help educate at the grassroots level about the awareness of various government stakeholders in rural development.

One such example, “Community Connect: Catalyzing Women Leaders for Collective Action at the Local Level” in Maharashtra and Bihar. The program trains 25 women per month in each village, focusing on building leadership skills, confidence, and knowledge of local participation systems like gram sabha.

The program also facilitates exposure visits to other villages, spreading awareness and inspiring replication. By fostering collective action, the initiative empowers women to challenge systemic barriers and lead sustainable community development, with plans to expand its reach to more villages.

From all these stories, we can see that, if utilized with proper channels, gram sabha can be a game changer that empowers and improves the living conditions of local people who don’t otherwise have the resources to move to big cities and prefer to stay close to their roots

Organization and community participation, and taking an active voice in local matters, create a quiet change that will benefit coming generations.

About the Author

Ms. Pooja O. Murada
Principal lead, Outreach for Development, S M Sehgal Foundation

Mass communications master’s; English honors; bridge marketing program (Tuck School of Business); over twenty years in brand management, marketing, and development communications in the corporate and development sector. Spearheaded a community radio in an aspirational district; former chairperson of the gender committee at Sehgal Foundation, invited ICC member, Volvo India, and former governing board member of Community Radio Association.

The post Gram Sabha Unlocked: How local Participation Is Transforming Rural India appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

In rural India, awareness is nurtured through connection, communication, and context. Participatory rural games designed to educate while entertain are emerging as powerful tools to spread awareness and build capacities. These tools transform traditional board games into hands-on learning tools, addressing topics such as agriculture, health, nutrition, and community leadership.

These games are part of a broader movement in community-led development that values voice, inclusion, and adaptability. Engaging IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) materials helps bring complex issues to life, one dice roll at a time.

What is IEC Material and Why Does It Matter?

IEC stands for Information, Education, and Communication tools used to raise awareness, promote behavioral change, and build skills in rural communities. Printed leaflets, street plays, and now interactive games continue to evolve to match changing attention spans and technology habits.

Why games work better:

In a fast-paced, media-saturated world, participatory rural games stand out for their ability to engage and educate at once.

2. How to use Participative Games in rural India

2.1 What Types of Games Are Used?

The games are usually modeled on traditional board games (Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Memory Match), and tailored for specific educational themes. Each action within the game aligns with a real-life concept, such as an agricultural practice or a nutritional fact.

Popular themes:

Participatory games for educational purposes are often backed by training facilitators and paired with storytelling for maximum impact.

2.2 Where Do These Games Fit in Broader Learning Ecosystems?

Education games are not replacements for schoolbooks, but they serve as learning tools in many venues.

Used alongside IEC materials, such as pamphlets, videos, and charts, a layered learning approach is effective. Plus, they are easily replicable and scalable.

2.3 Top-performing themes That Work Best in Participatory Rural Games:

Some subjects lend themselves particularly well to game-based learning.

These games simplify complex systems and help people practice decision-making in safe environments.

2.4 Why Are Games So Effective?

The secret lies in game mechanics. When rules are clear, rewards are instant, and play is social, engagement is the result.

The mechanics:

The combination of visuals, movement, laughter, and storytelling ensures that people understand better, remember more, and feel empowered.

3. Why Participatory Games Are Transformative in Rural India

3.1 What Changes in Rural Communities?

Participatory games address information gaps as well a long-standing taboos and silence. When education becomes a shared experience through games, the transformation runs deep.

The power of participatory education is not just about what is taught, but what is retained and acted upon.

3.2 How Does This Support Community-Led Development?

Games are more than learning aids; they are tools of empowerment that align perfectly with the principles of community-led development especially participation, adaptability, and inclusiveness.

Why the community must lead:

Information, Education, and Communication is about dialogue, creativity, and accountability, which are all naturally promoted in the games.

From Passive to Participatory: Shifting the Learning Paradigm

In traditional IEC models, people listen. In participatory game models, people play, speak, question, and reflect. That is the shift we need.

These smart IEC tools also offer a chance to integrate digital gamification in the future, using AR or app-based board games for the same rural audiences.

By blending board games, IEC material, and community insight, this model offers a scalable solution to grassroots education and behavior change.

Traditional IEC tools such as posters or leaflets often fail to meaningfully engage rural populations. When adapted around local culture and needs, participatory board games and education games serve as trust-building, skill-enhancing tools.

Benefits:

Management puzzle games that teach crop planning, and gardening board games that illustrate nutrition cycles, serve as engaging formats to help local people connect learnings with daily life.

Real Voices, Real Impact

Comments from those whose lives changed through these games:

Looking Ahead: How Can NGOs, Panchayats, and CSR Use This?

Every rural development stakeholder from NGOs to local panchayats can adopt this model with minimal investment. Many organisations are already collaborating to create sustainable, gamified IEC material based on region-specific needs.

How to implement:

These games not only educate, but also unite. They foster group thinking, leadership, and a shared sense of progress.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just Games

Participatory rural games are not child’s play. They are purpose-driven tools to spark curiosity, bridge information gaps, and bring about real social change.

Whether it is a water board game in a drought-hit village or a nutrition game for adults in an anganwadi, each game session becomes a gateway to transformation. As India embraces smarter rural development strategies, such low-cost, high-impact innovations will play a central role.

Vikas Jha
Principal Lead, Local Participation and Sustainability

Vikas Jha, Principal Lead, Local Participation and Sustainability at S M Sehgal Foundation has 20 years of professional experience in the development sector, especially in the areas related to strategy development, CSR project management, public policy analysis, capacity building (project team, community leaders & local institutions at grassroots) & social inclusion.

The post Beyond Games: Educating Rural India via Participatory Tools appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

What happens when a school turns into a pond every monsoon?

That used to be everyday life for Government Senior Secondary School in Kherla village, Haryana. Each monsoon, the grounds filled with water. Morning prayers stopped. Sports were cancelled. Students avoided the flooded toilets. Learning came to a standstill.

But in 2021, things changed.

With help from S M Sehgal Foundation and a CSR-supported project, the school now has a recharge well. This single intervention transformed the campus. What once remained waterlogged for weeks now drains in just two days. In addition, the recharge well sends more than 1.5 million liters of rainwater back into the ground each year.

How does water management impact rural development?

Water affects everything: farming, health, education, and daily life. Over 80 percent of India’s water is used in agriculture. Without water, rural life struggles. With it, all life thrives.

Why water management matters?

What are the biggest water-related challenges in rural India?

Even with numerous schemes in place, rural India faces a water deficit caused by a mix of natural and man-made factors:

What are the key activities in rural water management?

To make water management work in agriculture and rural development, communities must adopt a range of strategies:

These core principles of integrated water management programs are designed for rural India.

What does smart water use look like in agriculture?

Farmers do not need more water; they need to use it smarter.

These tools reduce agricultural water use while growing more food. They make farms climate-ready and more profitable.

Why must the community lead water management efforts?

Real change begins when people lead.

Water affects each household differently. Locals know which well dries up first, or which area floods fastest. When communities manage their own water, the solutions stick due to their ownership, care, and long-term maintenance.

Women especially play a key role. They manage water daily. When they lead, the impact multiplies.

How can collaboration improve rural water systems?

The most successful water management projects are those where CSR, government, and NGOs work together.

In Kherla, this three-way partnership solved waterlogging as well as public health, groundwater depletion, and school dropout challenges.

What long-term benefits can rural India expect?

When rural communities actively manage water resources, the ripple effects last for generations. Improved water access management increases farmers’ potential which means he can grow more than one crop a year, increasing their income and reducing reliance on seasonal migration. Clean, available water also improves public health by reducing waterborne diseases and improving hygiene.

Children, especially girls, attend school more regularly when they do not have to walk miles for water. Women gain time for income-generating activities and community participation. Recharge wells, check dams, and watershed conservation protect against drought, floods, and soil erosion, making villages climate-resilient.

Over time, farming becomes more profitable, youth find reasons to stay, and migration slows. Stronger local economies emerge, powered by better yields, healthier families, and empowered communities. Water becomes not just a resource, but a foundation for lasting rural development.

A 2023 World Bank report noted that better water management systems in India could raise the country’s GDP by up to 6 percent. That scale of transformation is possible!

What exactly changed in Kherla?

Kherla village, Haryana, transformed through just one smart move, a recharge well.

So, is water the key to rural success?

Without a doubt, yes.

Water influences every aspect of rural development—from agriculture to education, from health to employment. And yet, water remains under-prioritized in policy, planning, and action. The Kherla example proves that small-scale, sustainable water management systems can solve large-scale problems if communities are at the heart of it.

Let us embed water management into every rural development program, not as an add-on, but as the foundation. Let us fund smart water management systems, promote watershed harvesting, and empower villagers to take the lead.

Because when rural India controls its water, it shapes its future.

Lalit Mohan Sharma
Principal Scientist, Water Research and Training

Lalit Mohan Sharma is the Principal Scientist, Water Management, at S M Sehgal Foundation, with over 20 years of experience in water and soil conservation. He has developed innovative solutions, such as the JalKalp Biosand Filter and MatiKalp ceramic filter, for providing safe drinking water, and presented a freshwater model at the UN Solution Summit 2015.

The post Why Water Management is the Key to Rural Development Success? appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Early childhood, a critical phase in human development, demands adequate support, education, and healthcare for children. During the first five years, children undergo rapid growth, forming essential neural pathways crucial for cognitive development. This period also shapes their physical well-being, influenced by factors like nutrition and environment.

However, children are vulnerable to negative impacts, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. To address this, the Indian government launched the Anganwadi program in 1975. According to a recent article by Hindustan Times, as of March 2025, there are 13.99 lakh operational Anganwadi Centers (AWCs), aimed at providing child and maternal care and combating hunger and malnutrition.

What is Anganwadi?

Anganwadi centers primarily cater to children aged 0–6 years, serving as vital components of India’s public healthcare system. Beyond healthcare, they significantly contribute to early education and holistic child development.

These centers play a pivotal role in various child development activities, offering accessible and affordable healthcare services. Anganwadi health workers possess valuable insights into local health issues and effectively communicate community programs due to their strong community connections.

Furthermore, Anganwadis play a crucial role in combating malnutrition nationwide, ensuring equitable access to government programs addressing malnutrition, infant mortality, community health concerns, lack of child education, and preventable diseases across India.

THE ROLE OF ANGANWADI WORKERS IN ICDS

Anganwadi centres operate under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive early childhood care programs launched by the Government of India in 1975. The primary goal of ICDS is to address the interrelated needs of young children, pregnant and lactating mothers, and adolescent girls in rural and underserved areas by delivering a package of essential services.

These services include:

At the heart of this program are the Anganwadi workers, grassroots-level functionaries responsible for implementing ICDS services in their communities. As trusted local figures, they act as a vital link between the government and rural households, especially women and children. Their ability to build rapport with families makes them effective in raising awareness about nutrition, immunisation, early education, and maternal healthcare.

Anganwadi workers are also trained to identify early signs of malnutrition and health issues, maintain detailed growth monitoring records, and ensure that every eligible child or woman receives the right support. Their multi-faceted role is instrumental in meeting the health, nutrition, and learning needs of rural communities and in furthering the developmental goals envisioned by the ICDS.

WHY ANGANWADI CENTERS ARE NEEDED FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT?

Anganwadi centers play a crucial role in early schooling for rural children, aligning with the National Education Policy’s focus on early childhood care and education. Various challenges hinder effective education delivery. Limited attention to pre-primary education results from factors such as inadequate training, lack of proper infrastructure, and overwhelming duties for Anganwadi workers.

Anganwadi centers offer:

Preschool Education: Anganwadi centers offer a variety of educational activities to prepare children for school. They prioritize learning through playful engagement, which supports the development of children across various dimensions, including social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and aesthetic domains.

Optimal Nutrition: Anganwadi centers provide supplementary food, offering hot meals consisting of mixed pulses, cereals, oil, sugar, and iodized salt. Additionally, they may provide take-home rations. These centers diligently monitor children’s physical growth, including height and weight. Moreover, they extend their services to women ages 15 to 45, ensuring their nutritional and health needs are met to effectively care for their children.

Health Check-ups & Immunization: Anganwadi centers provide basic health services like immunization, primary healthcare, and referral help. Anganwadi workers work with healthcare staff to keep records, talk to parents, and arrange immunization sessions for children. These sessions include vaccines for diseases like polio, DTP, measles, and TB. Anganwadi workers cover the population in their area and also make monthly visits to check on families. Every month, anganwadi workers cover the area under them to make sure children get vaccinated for diseases like polio, DTP, measles, and TB.

Anganwadi centers are essential in meeting rural children’s learning and health requirements in India and supporting government programs. Therefore, the government, local communities, and rural development NGOs in India need to extend their assistance to enhance the effectiveness of these centers and to advance the larger aim of the national development.

NGOs Role in Supporting Anganwadi Centers

S M Sehgal Foundation has been working toward supporting Anganwadi centers and contributing to the educational, nutritional, and general growth and development of women and children in the rural areas of the country. Since 1999, S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation) has dedicated its efforts to enhancing the quality of life in rural Indian communities. As a rural development NGO established as a public charitable trust, Sehgal Foundation boasts a skilled and committed team focused on crafting sustainable programs to tackle the most urgent needs of rural India.

HOW RENOVATED ANGANWADI CENTERS EMPOWER WOMEN AND CHILDREN?

In the village of Rigarh, Ferozepur Jhirka block, Nuh, Haryana, a newly renovated Anganwadi center stands as a beacon of support for its community. With a population of approximately 2,500 across 350 households, Rigarh relies on two Anganwadi centers for essential services under the government’s ICDS program. The revitalization of this center is thanks to a CSR initiative backed by HDFC Parivartan and implemented by S M Sehgal Foundation since 2021.

A dedicated Village Development Committee (VDC) of 20–25 members, trained monthly on various government topics, spearheaded the initiative. Concerned about the center’s dilapidated state, the VDC advocated for its renovation to better serve the community. Now with its refurbished infrastructure, the Anganwadi center provides enhanced services to children and women, ensuring improved service delivery at the grassroots level.

Conclusion

Anganwadi centers are steppingstone of India’s public health and education systems, especially in rural areas. Rooted in the ICDS scheme, they provide essential services such as nutrition, early childhood education, and primary healthcare to millions of children and women. These centers not only combat malnutrition and reduce infant mortality but also lay the foundation for lifelong learning and development. Despite facing challenges like inadequate infrastructure and heavy workloads, Anganwadi workers continue to serve with dedication. Collaborative efforts from the government, corporate and NGOs like CSR initiative backed by HDFC Parivartan and implemented by S M Sehgal Foundation, Strengthening Anganwadi infrastructure.

Priya Chaudhary
Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development

Priya Chaudhary is an expert in Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development with a focus on gender equity, social inclusion, and evidence-based change. With extensive experience in project management, storytelling, and qualitative research, she has worked on various NGO marketing and development projects.

The post The role of Anganwadi in the growth and rural development in India appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

As the government works to increase the contribution of agricultural production to India’s GDP, a crucial need is the empowerment of farmers through education on modern technology and innovative techniques, which will help them achieve high productivity and quality in their produce.

According to the Agriculture and Food Management Report of the Economic Survey 2024-25, agriculture sector contributes nearly 16% to India’s GDP while supporting around 46.1% of the Indian population. The above graph clearly shows the decrease of the agriculture sector’s share in India’s GDP since 2018, now standing at just 16%. This highlights the urgent need to enhance agricultural efficiency.

MODERN AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES IMPROVING THE PRODUCTIVITY OF FARMERS

The broad scope in modern techniques of agriculture has guided us to a new era of innovation, minimizing losses and enhancing overall capability. These technological advancements are a boon for farmers as the adoption of digital and analytic tools continues to drive ongoing improvements in agriculture. This sustained trend holds the promise of optimizing crop yields and contributing to the upliftment of the modern farming community by boosting income levels.

INNOVATIVE AGRICULTURE METHODS TO ENHANCE THE CROP PRODUCTIVITY OF FARMERS

Precision Farming: This technique utilizes technology such as GPS-guided tractors and drones for precise planting, irrigation, and harvesting, thereby optimizing resource use and minimizing waste.

Vertical Farming: Grow crops in vertically stacked layers or inclined surfaces, often indoors, allowing year-round production and efficient space utilization.

Hydroponics and aquaponics: utilize soilless cultivation methods, where plants grow in nutrient-rich water solutions. Hydroponics focuses on water-based systems, and aquaponics integrates fish farming.

Biological Pest Control: Utilize natural predators, parasites, or pathogens to manage pests, rather than relying on chemical pesticides, to promote sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices.

Vertical Integration: Integrate various stages of the farmers’ supply chain, from production to distribution, allowing better control over quality and costs.

Agroforestry: Integrate trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes to provide additional income through timber or fruit production and improve soil fertility.

Drip Irrigation: Practice efficient water delivery directly to the plant’s root zone to reduce water wastage and promote water-use efficiency.

These modern agriculture methods contribute to sustainable agriculture development, increasing agricultural productivity, improving resource management, and ultimately enhancing the overall productivity of farmers. But what does this mean in terms of crop production? Let’s break down the benefits these practices when bring to the field.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF MODERN AGRICULTURE PRACTICES IN CROP PRODUCTION?

Efficient Resource Use: Modern agriculture practices like precision irrigation, drip irrigation systems, soil health analysis etc, reduce the wastage of water, fertilizers, and other natural resources.

Increased Crop Yields: Modern practices like using high-yield seeds, hydroponics, precision farming etc, increase the production of crop per square area, showing excellent results even on limited cultivable land.

Environmentally Friendly: These practices reduce the use of unnecessary chemicals on the field, resulting in improved soil health and reduced soil erosion.

Increased Crop Quality: Modern practices like hydroponics, vertical farming, precision farming, etc, use controlled environments, which result in consistent, high-quality crop production with minimum resource wastage.

However, the farmers need training to implement these techniques effectively and maximize their benefits.

THAT’S WHEN A RURAL DEVELOPMENT NGO STEPS IN

The Agricultural Development Program at S M Sehgal Foundation, one of the top sustainable rural development NGO in India, is dedicated to fostering sustainable livelihoods among farmers, particularly women producers. Through the promotion of improved agricultural practices and the role of modern techniques and cutting-edge technologies, the program aims to enhance crop yields, promote water conservation, and improve soil fertility.

Working closely with smallholder farmers in both rain-fed and irrigated areas, the team focuses on various aspects, including soil health management, crop production, input-use efficiency, small-farm mechanization, water-efficient irrigation techniques, horticultural development, livestock management, and the integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in agriculture.

FARMER FIELD SCHOOLS SUCCESS: NURTURING LEARNING & EXPERIMENTATION

In Northern India, farmers, particularly in Punjab, have a historical focus on cereal crops and pulses, stemming from the Green Revolution. S M Sehgal Foundation introduced “Farmer Field Schools” in 2020 to address monocropping and other traditional farming methods. Akhlak and his father, Iqbal, were initially skeptical, but they embraced the initiative and saw remarkable results.

The Field Schools, tailored for the Trans-Gangetic plains, incorporate advanced practices like polyhouses, solar spray pumps, drip irrigation, etc, to increase crop productivity. In January 2023, Akhlak’s farm achieved 1.5 times higher yields in tomatoes, breaking the notion of vegetable farming losses. The success attracted more than 314 farmers from nearby villages, fostering knowledge exchange. Akhlak used his increased income for education and land repayment, reinvesting in future cycles for sustained prosperity.

JAURASI FARMER ADOPTS SUSTAINABLE HIGH-VALUE BROCCOLI CUTLIVATION

Pradeep Singh, a dedicated farmer from Jaurasi village in Haryana’s Nuh district, relies on farming as his family’s primary income source. Cultivating wheat, mustard, millet, and vegetables on their five-acre land, he needed more than just traditional farming methods to generate significant profits.

In April 2022, a transformative opportunity arose under an ongoing CSR-supported initiative by S M Sehgal Foundation. Pradeep embraced sustainable broccoli farming, a novel intervention discussed during a Village Development Committee session in September 2022. Selected for the project, he received broccoli seeds, essential micronutrients, and comprehensive training.

Pradeep’s commitment yielded a bountiful harvest of 2,500 kg of broccoli, translating to approximately INR 70,000 in total sales. With a cultivation cost of INR 15,000, his net profit soared to INR 55,000, showcasing a remarkable income, doubling that of traditional crops like mustard or wheat.

CONCLUSION

With Agriculture still being one of the major contributors to Indian GDP, it becomes necessary to shift focus towards boosting farmer productivity and profitability. Stories like Akhlak’s tomato success in Punjab and Pradeep Singh’s profitable broccoli farming in Haryana clearly show how modern agriculture techniques and grassroots support can transform rural livelihoods.

As technology reshapes farming through modern agriculture methods, water-efficient practices, and Farmer Field Schools, there is a renewed hope for a flourishing, sustainable agricultural future. By equipping farmers with knowledge and tools, we not only boost yields and income but also pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous rural India.

About the Author

Ms. Pooja O. Murada
Principal lead, Outreach for Development, S M Sehgal Foundation

Mass communications master’s; English honors; bridge marketing program (Tuck School of Business); over twenty years in brand management, marketing, and development communications in the corporate and development sector. Spearheaded a community radio in an aspirational district; former chairperson of the gender committee at Sehgal Foundation, invited ICC member, Volvo India, and former governing board member of Community Radio Association.

The post How Does Modern Agriculture Improve The Productivity Of Farmers? appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

As monsoon clouds roll over India’s vast landscape, they bring much-needed relief from summer heat and renewed hope for farmers and rural communities. However, despite the abundance that the rains offer, much of this precious water is lost, flowing away due to poor infrastructure, inadequate storage, and lack of awareness.

Monsoons offer a valuable shared opportunity for communities, governments, and organizations alike. The S M Sehgal Foundation team understands that the monsoon is not just a season; the monsoon season is an opportunity, a chance to conserve, recharge, and secure water for the months to come for water-scarce communities. So, the question arises why is water conservation necessary?

A Paradox of Plenty

India receives nearly 75 percent of its annual rainfall during the monsoon months, yet many rural communities face acute water scarcity year-round. This paradox is most visible and dire in states like Rajasthan and Bihar, where water either floods the fields or vanishes deep underground, out of reach. S M Sehgal Foundation has been working with partners in these regions to reverse this pattern by turning monsoons into opportunities for creating water security.

Success Story: Recharging Hope in Nuh, Haryana

In Nuh, Haryana, one of India’s most water-stressed districts, the foundation team works alongside local villagers to construct check dams and recharge wells. These simple yet powerful structures helped capture monsoon runoff that would otherwise have eroded fertile topsoil and disappeared into drains. More than 100 recharge structures across villages in Nuh have replenished groundwater tables and greatly reduced the drudgery for women who once walked miles to fetch water.

“Earlier, our wells would dry up by October. Now, water lasts till the next monsoon,” says Shabnam, a community member in Nuh.

From Runoff to Resource in Andhra Pradesh

In drought-prone Anantapur, S M Sehgal Foundation introduced rooftop rainwater harvesting systems in government schools. These systems collect and store rainwater for use during dry months, ensuring clean drinking water for students. What began as an infrastructure solution quickly became an educational one: children learned about the importance of water conservation and became ambassadors for change in their communities.

“My students now ask their parents to build rainwater systems at home,” shares a school principal. This ripple effect exemplifies the foundation’s work to promote community-led change.

Smart Technology, Smarter Farming

Monsoons are vital for India’s agriculture, but unpredictable rainfall can make farming a gamble. Through its Adaptive Technology–Agriculture (AT-A) initiative, Sehgal Foundation is piloting IoT-based irrigation solutions that optimize water use in farming and make water conservation in agriculture a reality. In collaboration with agricultural research institutes, these tools are tested on experimental plots and later introduced to farmers, turning monsoon variability into a manageable factor rather than a crisis.

Why Water Conservation Can’t Wait

As climate change amplifies the unpredictability of rainfall, water conservation projects can no longer be reactive, we must be proactive. The monsoon season is a critical window not just to harvest water, but to plant the seeds of behavioral change.

S M Sehgal Foundation combines traditional knowledge with modern water conservation techniques, which illustrates that rural India doesn’t lack the will to change, only the means. Whether constructing check dams, building rainwater harvesting units, or training farmers in water-smart agriculture, the impact is real and measurable.

What Can You Do to Turn This Monsoon Into a Movement?

India’s monsoon season holds immense potential—not just to replenish rivers and fields, but to create lasting water security in regions that face daily scarcity. Here’s how you can contribute meaningfully:

This monsoon season, let’s not watch the rain go down the drain. Let’s capture, conserve, and celebrate water—because every drop counts!

Article originally published on India CSR

Visit www.smsfoundation.org to learn how to be part of this transformation.

About the Author

Rajat Jay Sehgal
Chairperson, S M Sehgal Foundation

Rajat Jay Sehgal is chairperson of Sehgal Foundation and serves on the boards of Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment and Hytech Seed India Pvt. Ltd. With a background in Business Administration and MIS from the University of Iowa, he played a key role in developing S M Sehgal Foundation to what it is at present. He has also been awarded with the Iowa Ag Leadership Award and the University of Iowa’s International Impact Award.

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How can small-scale farmers thrive despite having limited land and resources?

In India, where more than 86 percent of farmers are classified as small-scale or marginal (NITI Aayog 2023), how to create sustainable livelihoods is more relevant than ever. These farmers form the backbone of India’s agricultural economy, yet they often face persistent challenges—low productivity, depleted soil health, and limited access to reliable markets.

Community-led initiatives and scientifically informed agricultural practices, however, are beginning to change this narrative.

This blog explores how thoughtful interventions—particularly in the areas of soil enrichment, capacity building, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) partnerships—are transforming the lives of smallholder farmers. The story of Sampangiramaiah, a farmer from Medahatti village in Karnataka, offers a powerful example of this transformation.

What challenges do small farmers face in India today?

Small-scale and marginal farmers—who constitute more than 85 percent of India’s agricultural population—typically own less than two hectares of land. Despite their critical role in the nation’s food system, they face structural challenges that severely constrain their productivity and economic security:

How can science-backed sustainable practices help?

To improve yield and ensure long-term productivity, moving toward sustainable agricultural practices is crucial. One such approach is the Package of Practices (PoP):

One of the effective way to improve soil quality by using the Combining these interventions with traditional methods like old water tank tank silt application creates a holistic farming model that enhances productivity and improve soil biological, physical and biological properties.

What is tank silt and how does it improve the soil?

India is home to more than two million traditional water bodies, many of which remain underutilized due to years of silt accumulation. Desilting these tanks restores their water-holding capacity and yields nutrient-rich silt that can be repurposed for agricultural use. The soil that is excavated during the desilting of village ponds or community water tanks offers several agronomic benefits when applied to farmland:

India Water Portal explains how tank silt rejuvenates degraded soil.

A real-world example: How did Sampangiramaiah’s farm transform?

Sampangiramaiah, a farmer from Medahatti village, Karnataka, faced low yields due to poor soil and limited resources. As part of a CSR project supported by First American (FAI) India and implemented by S M Sehgal Foundation, he adopted:

Before vs. After Comparison:

“The package of practices and the use of tank silt have made a real difference,” shares Sampangiramaiah.

Why does farmer training matter in sustainable agriculture?

Farming success depends not just on inputs but also on knowledge and skills:

Workshops, demo farms, and one-on-one guidance are vital for technology adoption.

How do community-led initiatives support small farmers?

Farmer training is the backbone of sustainable agriculture. This is more than supplying better seeds or fertilizers; farmers are empowered with the knowledge to make informed decisions for their land, crops, and communities. For small-scale and marginal farmers, hands-on training often leads to lasting, meaningful change.

What training does:

For Sampangiramaiah in Medahatti village, ongoing technical support through the FAI India and Sehgal Foundation partnership initiative made all the difference. It wasn’t just the tools—it was the consistent guidance, timely advice, and real-time problem-solving that helped him increase his yields in a sustainable way.

What are the long-term gains from blending tradition and innovation?

When traditional wisdom is complemented by scientific knowledge, the results are transformative:

Farmers like Sampangiramaiah are pioneers in this integration, proving that transformation is possible with the right tools.

Can CSR help rural agriculture scale up?

Yes! CSR initiatives are increasingly becoming key drivers in transforming rural agriculture. By providing financial support, technical training, and community mobilization, CSR-backed projects bridge gaps that small farmers alone cannot overcome.

These efforts create sustainable models that can be replicated across regions, as seen in the CSR partnership between First American (FAI) India and S M Sehgal Foundation, which supported farmers like Sampangiramaiah in adopting advanced agricultural practices.

What steps can help replicate this model elsewhere?

Can small farmers become sustainable entrepreneurs?

Yes! And many already are. By integrating sustainable practices, training, and access to resources, small farmers can:

With government and CSR support, this model can empower lakhs of farmers.

A roadmap for transforming lives through agriculture

The story of Sampangiramaiah from Karnataka showcases how simple yet targeted interventions, such as PoP, tank silt use along with continued support, can elevate the lives of smallholder farmers.

Scaling such efforts across India has the potential to make agriculture a viable and sustainable livelihood. The future depends on collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and recognizing farmers as key agents of change.

About the Author

Pawan Kumar
Principal Lead for Agriculture Development

Pawan Kumar is the Principal Lead for Agriculture Development at Sehgal Foundation, with over 27 years of experience in scaling NGO and CSR initiatives. An Oxford-educated development professional, recognized as one of the top agri-food pioneers by the World Food Prize Foundation in 2024, Pawan has a strong track record in organizational growth, fund mobilization, and sustainable development.

The post Agricultural Development: Transforming Small-scale Farmers’ Land and Lives appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Can a woman’s voice and a small backyard truly spark change in rural India?

She speaks her mind. She grows her own food. And she is redefining what it means to lead. Meet Rekha Kumari, a changemaker from the Women’s Leadership School in Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Through kitchen gardening and grassroots leadership training, women like Rekha are transforming not just their households but their entire communities.

The blog explores how simple efforts like leadership schools and kitchen gardens are helping rural women take charge of their future.

What are Women’s Leadership Schools, and why do they matter?

Women’s Leadership Schools are local learning spaces where rural women receive hands-on training in communication, civic awareness, and community leadership. These spaces help women find their voice, make informed decisions, and participate actively in the development of their villages.

Rekha Kumari’s journey, that started as quiet participation, has now grown into powerful local leadership. Today, she is a trusted voice for change.

How does a kitchen garden boost nutrition and self-reliance?

Kitchen gardening may seem simple, but its impact is profound—especially in areas where families struggle with poor diets and rising food prices. In Bihar, for example, NFHS-5 reports that 53 percent of rural women are anaemic and the growth of more than 40 percent of children is stunted. Kitchen gardens offer a sustainable fix.

For Rekha and her neighbors, gardening is about more than food—it is about independence.

What support makes this movement possible?

Real change does not happen in isolation. Behind every woman stepping into leadership, or growing her own food, lies a strong foundation of support. These grassroots transformations are not spontaneous; they are carefully nurtured by a mix of institutions, individuals, and partnerships working together.

Together these support systems create a safety net that empowers women to grow, lead, and sustain change. This web of support means that women like Rekha are not just learning—they are leading with confidence.

How can this model be scaled in other villages?

Scaling a model like Rekha Kumari’s journey is not just possible—it is practical. With the right steps, any village can nurture changemakers and food growers from within.

With the right momentum, what works in one village becomes a movement across districts.

What is the bigger impact of women leading change?

When women lead, everyone wins. Here’s how these efforts go beyond individuals:

According to FAO India, home gardens and women’s education together have been shown to significantly reduce child malnutrition.

Final thoughts: A garden, a voice, a revolution

Rekha Kumari is no exception—she is an example. Her story reminds us that every woman has the potential to lead, given the right tools and support. Leadership Schools and kitchen gardens may look small on paper; but on the ground, they are changing lives—one woman, one family, and one village at a time.

About the Author

Ms. Pooja O. Murada
Principal lead, Outreach for Development, S M Sehgal Foundation

Mass communications master’s; English honors; bridge marketing program (Tuck School of Business); over twenty years in brand management, marketing, and development communications in the corporate and development sector. Spearheaded a community radio in an aspirational district; former chairperson of the gender committee at Sehgal Foundation, invited ICC member, Volvo India, and former governing board member of Community Radio Association.

The post Women Leading Change via Leadership Schools and Kitchen Gardening appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Nuh district, formerly known as Mewat, is situated in Haryana and is recognized as one of the aspirational districts in India. Despite its proximity to the National Capital Region, Nuh has faced significant challenges in education, water security, and infrastructure. According to the 2011 Census, the district had a literacy rate of 56.1 percent, with female literacy at a mere 33.71 percent (source: www.census2011.co.in).

In response to these challenges, various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives have been implemented to rejuvenate ponds and improve school infrastructure to ensure sustainable development and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Why Nuh Struggled: A Glimpse into Ground Realities

Located near India’s National Capital Region, Nuh district holds significant potential for inclusive growth and transformation. Despite facing developmental challenges, this region reflects the aspirations of its people. From education and water access to healthcare and livelihoods, the hurdles in Nuh have not been insurmountable—but opportunities for focused, community-driven progress.

1. Educational Challenges

Nuh’s educational landscape is evolving, though it still faces notable challenges.

Strengthening school infrastructure—ensuring clean water, safe toilets, and adequate classrooms—makes schools more welcoming, especially for girls. With improved student-teacher ratios, digital learning tools, and community involvement, Nuh has the potential to become a model for educational transformation in rural India.

2. Water Insecurity and Depleting Resources

Water insecurity is a pressing issue in Nuh, yet the district’s rich heritage of traditional water management—through ponds and stepwells—offers a blueprint for revival. While much of the groundwater remains saline, community-led water conservation and modern piped networks have helped reclaim safe and equitable water access.

The NITI Aayog has identified the urgency of addressing India’s water crisis, with Nuh at its forefront. Solutions like rainwater harvesting, rejuvenation of traditional sources, and smart water management have helped the region move toward sustainable water security.

3. Healthcare Deficits and Poor Nutritional Indicators

Healthcare access in Nuh remains a work in progress. Limited primary health centers and skilled personnel have contributed to challenges in maternal and child health. Yet, increased investment in mobile health units, telemedicine, and community health workers is already showing promise in bridging the care gap.

4. Poor Livelihood Opportunities

Nuh’s economy, anchored in agriculture and daily wage work, has improved subsequently with the right support. While small landholdings and limited irrigation have historically limited productivity, introducing sustainable agriculture practices and skill-building initiatives have opened up new avenues for income and dignity.

5. Gender Inequality and Social Barriers

Empowering women in Nuh is not just necessary—it is central to the region’s future. While traditional norms have limited women’s participation in public life, many local initiatives are already challenging the status quo.

Improving education access, menstrual hygiene, and self-help groups have helped girls and women reclaim agency over their lives. Tackling issues like early marriage and gender-based violence through legal awareness and community dialogue have further strengthened gender equality in the region.

Also Read: How Is Gender Inequality A Different Fight For Women In Urban And Rural Areas

CSR Initiatives: A Beacon of Hope

Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, several organizations have undertaken CSR projects focusing on pond rejuvenation and school improvement in Nuh.

Pond Rejuvenation: Reviving Traditional Water Sources

In rural India, ponds serve as critical reservoirs for irrigation, domestic use, and livestock. Beyond their utilitarian value, they help recharge groundwater and sustain biodiversity. However, decades of neglect, unregulated waste disposal, and silt accumulation have rendered many ponds nonfunctional. According to a 2023 NITI Aayog report, nearly 40 percent of India’s groundwater blocks are overexploited, and water bodies like ponds must be restored to address this crisis.

Case Study: Uleta Pond Restoration

In Uleta village of Nuh district, a targeted CSR initiative, supported by S M Sehgal Foundation, exemplifies how pond rejuvenation enhances community resilience. The intervention included:

As a result, the rejuvenated pond has become a year-round water source, improving agricultural productivity and restoring the local ecological balance.

School Improvement: Building Foundations for the Future

Education is a key enabler for long-term rural development. However, infrastructural deficits in rural schools—like broken toilets, leaky roofs, and lack of clean drinking water—often lead to absenteeism and school dropouts, especially among girls. As per the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023, 25 percent of rural government schools still lack usable toilets for girls, and 28 percent lack drinking-water facilities.

Case Study: Manuwas School Transformation

To bridge this gap, S M Sehgal Foundation, under its CSR-led intervention, undertook significant infrastructure upgrades in the Government High School of Manuwas village. Project outcomes include:

These improvements have led to measurable increases in student retention and engagement, showing how infrastructure is foundational to learning outcomes.

Also Read: Transformation Brings New Life to the School

Community Engagement: The Heart of Sustainable Development

True sustainability is achieved when communities are not just beneficiaries but active stakeholders in development. CSR projects that embed local participation in their design are more likely to endure and evolve. A 2023 UNDP India study on rural sustainability notes that “community involvement increases project efficiency by 35 percent and sustainability by over 50 percent.”

Formation of Village Committees

In the case of Nuh’s development efforts, Village Management and Development Committees (VMDCs) have been instrumental. These bodies:

Capacity Building and Training

Beyond infrastructure, behavioral change and knowledge sharing have been priorities. The foundation facilitated:

These initiatives empower residents with the tools to manage and maintain local assets, ensuring that benefits are long-term and not donor-dependent.

Impact Assessment: Measuring Success

The CSR initiatives in Nuh have yielded significant positive outcomes:

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Despite the successes, several challenges persist:

A Model for Rural Development

The CSR efforts in Nuh demonstrate the transformative potential of targeted interventions in water and education sectors. By combining infrastructure development with community engagement, these projects offer a replicable model for rural development across India.

About the Author

Priya Chaudhary
Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development

Priya Chaudhary is an expert in Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development with a focus on gender equity, social inclusion, and evidence-based change. With extensive experience in project management, storytelling, and qualitative research, she has worked on various NGO marketing and development projects.

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