Sirkatta village, under Bhandarwadi Gram Panchayat in Magarlod block of Dhamtari District, Chhattisgarh, is located about 35 Km from the block headquarters. This remote village largely depends on agriculture and forest products for its livelihood. However, due to limited irrigation facilities and low awareness of modern Techniques, most farmers could cultivate only one crop a year, leading to low income and economic instability. The total population of this village is 393, and the total households is 83. About 85% of this village community is ST, and 15% is OBC.

This case study focuses on Rajendra Dhruv, a small farmer from Sirkatta village who owns only 3 acres of land. Rajendra lives with his wife Dashobai and their 3 children. The entire responsibility of managing the household and livelihood rested on Rajendra and his wife. Rising prices of essential commodities and the increasing cost of living made it extremely difficult for the family to meet their daily needs. Rajendra used to grow only one seasonal crop, which was insufficient to sustain the family year-round.

Rajendra’s journey was not straightforward. Before fully engaging in farming, he tried his hand at tailoring, but his earnings were inconsistent and very low. Despite his best efforts, his family's financial stability remained out of reach. Disappointed, he redirected his focus to farming. However, limited knowledge of advanced agricultural practices and the absence of proper guidance made this transition challenging.

A turning point came when Rajendra connected with Agrocrats Society for Rural Development, Magarlod, the organisation implementing the project. With a focus on promoting sustainable livelihoods, the organisation held meetings in Sirkatta village to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR). In these sessions, villagers discussed key issues, including water scarcity, soil erosion, and low agricultural productivity. Rajendra actively participated, sharing his family's specific challenges with inadequate income. Impressed by his commitment, the organisation selected his family for support in livelihood and water conservation activities.

Building on this new partnership, the organisation, after a baseline survey and planning, developed a water conservation plan for Rajendra’s household. This included constructing a farm pond, installing a drip irrigation system on 1 acre, and implementing both capacity-building and on-the-ground interventions. Rajendra and his wife received regular training in modern farming techniques, soil management, crop diversification, and the use of organic inputs. They also learned to integrate multiple livelihood activities, such as poultry rearing, fish farming, and vegetable cultivation. Supported by the organisation, Rajendra was able to implement the following plan on his land:

• Maize in 0.5 acres
• Urd in 0.5 acre
• Beans and Leafy Vegetables in 0.10 acres and on the bund of the Farm Pond
• Marigold in 0.05 acres
• Medicinal crops each in 0.5 acres
• Paddy in 1.5 acres
• BYP (Backyard Poultry)
• Fishery in a Farm Pond

Challenges Faced: Several challenges were faced during implementation.

• Motivating villagers to adopt improved farming methods
• Lack of technical knowledge among farmers
• Regular monitoring of all activities
• Ensuring timely coordination with government departments

After facing these challenges with determination and guidance, Rajendra began to see positive results. Previously dependent on a single crop, he now enjoys a steady, improved income through various livelihood activities, including farming, poultry, fishery, and vegetable cultivation. His progress sets an inspiring example for others in his village.