Seed Support to WSHG’s

2025–26, SHALAR Foundation provided seed support to two Women Self Help Groups (WSHGs) in Rayagada Block of Rayagada District. The initiative was undertaken to promote vegetable cultivation, conserve indigenous paddy varieties, strengthen food and nutritional security, and support sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural women. The seed support was provided to Maa Durga SHG at Sanakutuli Village under Kutuli Gram Panchayat and Maa Nilamma SHG at Jagannathpur Village under Pitamahal Gram Panchayat.The seed support included both vegetable seeds and an indigenous paddy variety: Vegetable Seeds:Tomato,Brinjal,Radish,Lady’s Finger (Okra). Indigenous Paddy:Kalajeera Paddy Variety.

Objectives:  

• To promote vegetable cultivation among WSHG members.
• To support women farmers with quality and locally suitable seeds.
• To encourage cultivation of indigenous paddy varieties, particularly Kalajeera.
• To promote crop diversification and improve household food security.
• To improve nutritional security through increased availability of vegetables.
• To strengthen livelihood opportunities for women through agricultural activities.
• To conserve and promote indigenous agricultural biodiversity.
• To encourage sustainable and low-input farming practices.

Implementation of the Programme :

SHALAR Foundation facilitated the provision of vegetable and indigenous paddy seeds to the two selected WSHGs. The groups were encouraged to utilize the seeds for cultivation according to the local agricultural season and available land resources.The vegetable seeds of tomato, brinjal, radish, and lady’s finger were intended to support diversified vegetable production. Along with these vegetable seeds, Kalajeera indigenous paddy seeds were provided to encourage the conservation and cultivation of traditional paddy varieties.The WSHG members were encouraged to share their experiences, maintain the indigenous seed variety, and promote sustainable cultivation practices within their communities.