Question

In recent years, you may have noticed that many voluntary organisations also take initiatives to generate employment in hilly and dry land regions. If you find such initiatives in your locality, visit and prepare a report.

Answer 1

Name of the Organisation: Gram Vikas Seva Samiti
Area: Hilly and dry rural region

I visited a voluntary organisation working to create employment opportunities for people living in a hilly and dry region. The organisation provides training and support for different livelihood activities.

Main employment-generating activities:

• Dairy farming and goat rearing
• Beekeeping
• Handicrafts and weaving
• Small-scale food processing
• Nursery raising and plantation work
• Rainwater harvesting and watershed development
• Skill training for rural youth and women

How the organisation helps people:

• Provides vocational and skill training
• Helps people form Self-Help Groups
• Assists in obtaining small loans and credit
• Provides tools and basic equipment
• Helps in marketing locally produced goods
• Encourages activities suitable for the local climate and resources

Impact: These initiatives help rural people earn additional income, reduce seasonal unemployment and lessen migration to cities in search of work. Women and young people also get opportunities for self-employment.

Conclusion: Voluntary organisations can play an important role in generating employment in hilly and dry regions by promoting local skills, small enterprises and sustainable livelihood activities.