Investing in rural people in India

IFAD has been working in India for more than 40 years. The current country strategic opportunities programme is fully aligned with the government’s policy framework. During the period 2018-2024, IFAD will accompany government efforts to make smallholder farm systems remunerative, sustainable and resilient to climate change and price shocks.

IFAD’s focus is on strengthening people’s ability to manage their own development. Its approach hinges on participatory project planning and implementation, and draws on indigenous knowledge and community priorities.

Women’s empowerment is central to all of IFAD’s work. IFAD-supported projects have strengthened women’s access to financial services and markets while also building their social capital and enhancing their role in decision-making.

IFAD also works with tribal communities, typically located in the most remote, poorest areas of the country. Projects have helped them improve their livelihoods by enhancing local natural resource management, access to land, agricultural production and vocational skills.