Mahak Chandwani, Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Plant Physiology, 
College of Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur (C.G.)


Abstract
Agriculture continues to be the cornerstone of rural livelihoods in India. Despite its pivotal role, the sector faces challenges such as limited access to modern farming techniques, financial constraints, climate change vulnerabilities, and market unpredictability. Against this backdrop, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and the National Service Scheme (NSS) have emerged as key agents in bridging the gap between research and grassroots practices. This article assesses the outcomes of NGO-led awareness and training programmes in selected villages of Raipur district, Chhattisgarh, focusing on their impact on sustainable agriculture adoption, farmer empowerment, and rural transformation.

1. Introduction
India's agricultural sector supports more than 60% of its rural population, yet it remains constrained by traditional practices, low productivity, and lack of access to reliable information. Recognizing these challenges, development agencies and civil society organizations have increasingly focused on capacity-building and awareness-generation efforts.

NGOs, with their community-based approach, play a critical role in transferring agricultural knowledge and promoting sustainable practices. Similarly, NSS—an initiative under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports—mobilizes students to contribute to nation-building through social service and grassroots engagement. When these two institutions collaborate, their combined strengths can create meaningful impact in rural India.

This project, conducted in 2024–25 as part of the NSS “C” Certificate requirement, explored how NGO-led awareness programmes, supported by NSS volunteers, influence farmer behavior, agricultural decision-making, and village development in the Dharsiwa block of Raipur district, Chhattisgarh.

2. Objectives of the Study
  • The study was designed with the following objectives:
  • To analyze the socio-economic and socio-personal profile of farmers in selected villages.
  • To evaluate the impact of NGO-led training programmes in promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
  • To explore farmers’ perceptions of NGO efforts through small group discussions.
  • To identify the challenges faced by farmers and assess the support mechanisms provided through NGO and NSS interventions.

3. Methodology
The study was carried out in Nakti and Banarsi villages under the Dharsiwa block, Raipur district. These areas were selected based on accessibility and active NGO presence.
  • Respondents: 100 farmers were selected randomly—50 from each village.
  • Data Collection: Primary data was gathered through structured interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. A pre-tested questionnaire was used, and rapport-building efforts ensured authenticity and transparency.
  • Analysis: The responses were tabulated and analyzed to assess knowledge gain, behavioral change, and practical adoption of techniques.

4. Results and Key Findings

4.1 Socio-Economic Profile
  • 60% of respondents were male, and 40% were female.
  • A significant proportion (44%) belonged to the marginal landholding category (<2.5 acres).
  • 43% had annual incomes between ₹30,000 to ₹50,000.
  • Educationally, only 5% were postgraduates, while 21% were illiterate, reflecting the need for awareness programs in vernacular and visual formats.

4.2 Impact on Awareness and Knowledge
  • Before intervention, only 26% of respondents were aware of sustainable agriculture practices.
  • After training:
  1. 72% could explain basic sustainable practices.
  2. 68% were confident in using compost/vermicompost.
  3. Awareness about IPM rose from 14% to 61%.

One farmer shared: “Earlier, I believed only chemical fertilizers could ensure good yield. Now, I use compost and herbal pest repellents and have seen similar results.”

4.3 Adoption of Sustainable Practices
  • 49% began crop rotation and intercropping.
  • 31% started vermicomposting.
  • Use of water-efficient irrigation rose from 6% to 22%.
Farmers reported improved soil fertility, reduced input costs, and better crop health. A cooperative of 12 farmers from Nakti village pooled resources to rent drip irrigation equipment and collectively buy bio-inputs reducing input costs by 35%.

4.4 Economic Benefits
  • Input costs declined by 11.8% due to reduced chemical dependence.
  • Yields of vegetables and pulses increased by 17% on average.
  • 18% of trained farmers accessed organic markets, fetching better prices.
Additionally, 40% of participants reported being able to access government schemes, such as subsidies for compost pits or solar pumps, with NGO and NSS facilitation.

5. Farmers’ Perceptions and Implementation Gaps
Small group discussions highlighted several insights:
  • Farmers trusted NGO staff more than government officers due to regular engagement and empathy.
  • They appreciated hands-on demonstrations more than lectures.
  • Women felt empowered to participate in decision-making through SHGs.
  • However, short-term trainings were seen as inadequate for long-term change.

6. Role of NSS in Programme Implementation
NSS volunteers acted as crucial facilitators, supporting programme logistics, awareness drives, community surveys, and training sessions. Their involvement made the following contributions:
  • Organized 7-day camps focusing on sanitation, sustainable farming, and women’s empowerment.
  • Rallies and wall-paintings created buzz in villages and attracted participation.
  • Volunteers helped collect feedback and encouraged inclusive discussions, especially involving women and youth.
NSS not only supported farmers but also empowered students by instilling leadership and grassroots exposure.

7. Challenges and Recommendations
Key Challenges Identified
  • Resistance to change and traditional mindset.
  • Limited credit availability.
  • Inconsistent NGO funding.
  • Seasonal migration of laborers affecting training continuity.

Recommendations
  • Encourage year-round engagement and follow-up by NGOs and volunteers.
  • Provide subsidies for organic inputs and small irrigation systems.
  • Scale up successful cooperatives for shared resource usage.
  • Integrate experiential learning modules into regular NSS activity calendars.

8. Conclusion
The study concludes that NGO-led training programmes, when supported by NSS, can significantly enhance farmer awareness, improve sustainable practice adoption, and lead to measurable economic benefits. The collaborative model fosters a participatory development approach, creating empowered farmers who are better equipped to face modern agricultural challenges.

With increased investment, continuous training, and stronger institutional partnerships, such interventions can pave the way for a resilient and self-reliant rural India.