Dear Readers!!!
We are so pleased to launch Jeevidam Connect, the digital newsletter on behalf of Jeevidam Limited a livelihood initiative of DHAN Foundation. It stands as hope for deprived communities, driven by the vision of poverty eradication through sustainable business intervention. Rooted in the principles of people ownership, governance, and professional management, Jeevidam has been dedicated to enhance the livelihoods of the marginalized for over a decade, with its headquarters in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
At Jeevidam, we enhance people's livelihoods through four key interventions :
Becoming resource institution for 114 Farmer Producer Companies, which are promoted through various schemes and CSR projects, Jeevidam embodies the spirit of grassroots enhancement.
In this inaugural edition of our newsletter, Jeevidam made significant strides towards fulfilling its mission of empowering the poor and addressing global markets through collective action and sustainable business interventions. The month saw the publication of impactful success narratives showcasing good practices adapted by farmers in sustainable agriculture across locations. Additionally, nine Jeevidam Federations registered with the ONDC Platform, expanding market access for their diverse range of products. The inauguration of a Millets and Groundnut Processing Unit in Ponnamaravathi marked a significant initiative in the Pudukottai district. Jeevidam's commitment to capacity building was evident through various training programs aimed at enabling young professionals, Board of Directors, and community members, fostering ethical leadership and skill development.
We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to all our stakeholders, including community members, government institutions, line departments, CSR partners, and business entities. Through this platform, we aim to forge stronger relationships and foster collaborative efforts towards sustainable development.
Here's to the beginning of an exciting journey together!
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Editor
Development of Humane Action (DHAN) Foundation proudly received an award under the Livelihood & Skill Development category. The accolade recognizes the outstanding efforts put forth in Project "P0361 - Fostering Social Enterprises for Upscaling Sustainable Trading of Agriculture Produces to Enhance Income of Small and Marginal Farmers (SUSTAIN)." This transformative project, implemented in 10 backward blocks of South Tamil Nadu, has positively impacted 20,000 farmers.
The prestigious award ceremony took place at the 1st Edition of HDFC Parivartan - Excellence Award on February 14th, 2024, in Mumbai. Out of 100 NGOs, DHAN Foundation emerged as one of the 15 selected for awards across four major categories.
Appreciation received from HDFC Parivartan
TARANG, a grand FPO Mela cum Exhibition organized jointly by NABARD, SFAC, and ONDC in Coimbatore, witnessed the remarkable participation of the DHAN Foundation. Acknowledging the Foundation's commitment, the CBBO (Culster Based Business Organisation) received an appreciation award for showcasing a diverse range of products in their stall.
Jeevidam Coordinators from Eight Jeevidam Federations actively participated in this event, showcasing their products and registering them with ONDC. The recognition reaffirms Jeevidam's dedication to promoting and exhibiting the rich diversity of agricultural products from its federations.
Received Appreciation Award from Dr. K. Inkarsal, General Manager, NABARD RO, Chennai
Jeevidam Limited facilitated the registration of Twelve Jeevidam Federations/FPOs on the ONDC Platform – Ninja Seller App and showcased them under the Jeevidam Brand. Consumers can now explore a variety of products, from Chilli Powders to Millet Value-Added Products, on ONDC platforms. Read More
Puducherry Chief Minister Shri.N.Rangasamy and NABARD Chief General Manager, Shri R Shankar Narayan visiting Our Jeevidam Stall at Puducherry on 15th March 2024
In a proactive move to expand market opportunities and strengthen business networks, Jeevidam Limited played a pivotal role in the recent Buyer-Seller Meeting. The event, jointly organized by the Spice Board and Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), took place at TNAU, Coimbatore, on February 15, 2024. They directly connected with 6 buyers and had the discussion on marketing possibilities. Read More
Poondi Farmers Producer Company (FPO) made a presence at the Vivekananda CBSE School
Annual Day function by hosting a stall. The efforts of the FPO were not only recognized but also applauded,
resulting in the receipt of an appreciation certificate for their active participation.
Read More
Ilayankudi Vayalaga Jeevidam achieved a business activity of Paddy Procurement and marketing through
the Electronic National Agriculture Market (E-NAM) platform. The FPO strategically selected seven farmers from Valasaikadu
village to kick start the procurement business.
Read More
In a collaborative effort with KVK Sikkal, Thalainayaru Neithal Jeevidam Fish Value Addition Training Program, led by Dr. Madhivanan on January 1, 2024, marked a significant step towards enabling fisheries communities. Read More
A training session on the value addition of fruits and vegetables took place on February 19, 2024, at the Sempatty Kalanjiam Office, organised by Athoor Kalanjia Jeevidam FPO. The expertise of two esteemed resources, Dr. S.S. Vijayanchali and Dr. R. Sahul Hameed, both Assistant Professors, enriched the learning experience. Read More
A training session on Fodder Management and Azolla cultivation unfolded in the serene locales of Attrampakkkam and Poondi. Organized by the Poondi Kalanjia Jeevidam team, the event witnessed the active participation of 75 farmers from the Poondi Farmers Producer Company.
Read More
Poondi FPO made an important step towards productivity enhancement of Pearl Millet crop through the strategic collaboration with KVK, Thirur. This collaboration focused on the meticulous selection of resource farmers and the introduction of Cumbu varieties for yield assessment, enhancing the prospects for FPO shareholders. Read More
In a collaborative effort to address water security and promote sustainable agricultural livelihoods, stakeholders convened at the DHAN Foundation Central Office for a workshop on "Water Security and Agriculture Livelihood Enhancement." Distinguished guests, including Dr. B.J. Pandian and Dr. A. Gurusamy, along with representatives from DHAN Foundation and partner organizations, participated in insightful discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions.
The workshop commenced with a value reflection session, followed by the lighting of the lamp ceremony, symbolizing the enlightenment and unity of purpose among participants. Ms. K. Shanthi, Chief Executive Officer of Jeevidam Limited, delivered the welcome address, setting the stage for discussions on the workshop's objectives and outcomes.
Key presentations were delivered by Mr. M. Palanisamy, Chief Programme Officer of DHAN Foundation, who provided valuable insights into rainfall patterns, water storage statistics, and practical interventions for water security and productivity enhancement in agriculture. Dr. B.J. Pandian, Principal of Kumaraguru Institute of Agriculture, highlighted the historical significance of Tankfed Agriculture in Tamil Nadu and emphasized the importance of crop diversification and sustainable farming practices.
Dr. A. Gurusamy Retired Agronomy Professor TNAU Madurai, shared his expertise on water management strategies and the implementation of drip irrigation systems, stressing the need for localized knowledge transfer and capacity building initiatives. Experience sharing sessions, led by regional coordinators and stakeholders, provided valuable insights into productivity enhancement initiatives and community-driven conservation efforts.
Sub-group discussions yielded actionable declarations, including the promotion of micro-irrigation systems, preservation of traditional seeds, and the adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices. Ms. K. Shanthi, in her closing remarks, reiterated the importance of sustainability, knowledge dissemination, and community engagement in achieving water security and agricultural livelihood enhancement goals.
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to implement the identified strategies and collaborate towards a more water-secure and resilient agricultural sector in Tamil Nadu. Read More
The Advanced Center for Enabling Social Enterprise (ACESE) is a new initiative by DHAN Foundation aimed at uplifting small and marginal producers in agriculture and other sectors to increase their income. The centre focuses on innovation management, knowledge management, and dissemination through various activities : Read More
From February 19th to 21st, 2024, Jeevidam hosted a three-day Induction cum Business Management Programme at The DHAN Academy, Madurai, aimed at nurturing the skills and knowledge of 11 young business professionals. This comprehensive program provided valuable insights into Jeevidam's institutional structure, core components, and practical aspects, offering a macro perspective on Agri Business. Read More
In February 2024, Jeevidam conducted a two-day Capacity Building Programme exclusively designed for the Board of Directors (BODs) from diverse regions. This comprehensive training aimed at equipping BODs with essential knowledge and skills in key areas such as DHAN Foundation, Jeevidam Programme, Ethical Leadership, and Marketing Strategies. Read More
On February 24th, 2024, esteemed dignitaries came together to inaugurate the Millets and Groundnut Processing Unit in Ponnamaravathy, Pudukottai. This unit, funded by HDFC Parivartan, is now under the ownership and management of the Ponnamaravathy Kalanjia Jeevidam Farmers Producer Company Limited (FPCL), which is promoted by DHAN Foundation. Read More
Impactful success narratives stemming from Jeevidam's initiatives in 10 locations were documented
and published as a booklet, by Feburary. These stories unfold a tapestry of good practices of farmers, enhancements
in soil health, and the cultivation of sustainable agricultural practices.
Read More
As a practical tool to aid BODs in their responsibilities, a Pocket Diary containing crucial information about FPOs, roles, responsibilities, committee details, and meeting resolutions was developed and distributed. This training not only enabled BODs with knowledge and skills but also strengthened their commitment to steering Jeevidam towards continued success and impactful initiatives.
The case study highlights Vengalamudaiyal's journey as a resilient single mother and farmer in Appanenthal village, Ramanathapuram district. Facing challenges in marketing her produce due to third-party interventions, she found support through the Jeevidam group promoted by Dhan Foundation. Joining the Mudukulathur Kalanjia Jeevidam Farmers Producer Company Limited provided her with a reliable market and transparent procurement process, enabling fair pricing and eliminating third-party interventions. Vengalamudaiyal's success in selling her produce through the Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) resulted in financial benefits, enhancing her economically and inspiring confidence in sustainable farming practices for future generations. Read More
Vengalamudaiyal’s story : Empowering Farmers through Ethical Marketing Practices
