Orissa Tribal Empowerment and Livelihoods Programme

South-western Orissa is one of the most deprived regions of India. It has a population of 1.4 million, and three quarters of the people are poor. Among the population, 50 per cent belong to tribal groups, and 12 per cent to scheduled castes.

This IFAD-initiated programme focuses on building the capacity of poor people and their institutions so that vulnerable groups, particularly women, can plan and manage their own development and negotiate improved entitlements. Key objectives include better access to and management of natural resources, improved access to financial services and markets and the development of non-farm enterprises.

The programme offers a wide range of options to meet diverse needs, including wage employment, microfinance services and short-term and medium-term investments in agriculture and related activities, as well as a flexible fund for creating community infrastructure.
 

Source: IFAD