Project Description
This is a follow-on advisory project with the client-DSCL which builds on the lessons, experience and results from the previous rounds of IFC advisory engagements with the client in supporting smallholders to improve livelihood by enhancing sugarcane farm yields and incomes. The project has the following inter related components:
A. CAPACITY BUILDING OF DSCL EXTENSION WORKERS ON CLIMATE SMART SUGARCANE CULTIVATION PRACTICES (FOCUS ON WATER, SOIL, FOOD AND ENERGY NEXUS)
This includes development of a Rupapur specific climate smart agriculture(CSA) package of practices for sustainable sugarcane cultivation which includes farm mechanization,soil health improvements and energy use reduction on farm. Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) based tools will be used to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of agri-extension services of DSCL.
B. TRAINING AND CAPACITY BUILDING OF FARMERS IN RUPAPUR CATCHMENT AREAS
The project will support 20,000 smallholder sugarcane farmers of Rupapur unit of DSCL to improve farm yields by 20 per cent on an average. The project will support Rupapur unit in identifying and training 250 lead farmers for demonstration of suitable climate smart sugarcane cultivation practices
C. FOCUS ON DEMAND SIDE MANAGEMENT FOR WATER USE AVOIDANCE AT FARM LEVEL
The focus will be on behaviour change for farmers for adoption of climate smart irrigation practices that are, relatively, more efficient to conventional flood irrigation practices which will lead to 20 billion litres (potential )water use avoided at farm level.
D.KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT
1-2 national / international level seminars will be organized to share best practice case studies on corporate action for water sustainability in Ganga Basin ( location of DSCL sugarcane catchment) , on the results and experiences from the project to inform the larger industry group.