My Jungle - Participatory Forest Conservation

In the reporting period following activities were conducted,

Saguna Rice Technology: Saguna Rice Technology (SRT) is developed by Mr. Shekhar Bhadsavale, an experienced and enterprising farmer in Raigad district of Konkan region of Maharashtra state. A unique aspect of SRT is an efficient use of farm inputs including seeds, fertilizers and water. It provides an efficient way of cultivation.

SNM had set up demonstration cum pilot experiment plots in five villages in Ratnagiri district. We had set up the pilot experiment in order to assess the potential of this technique to provide an alternative to the burning of the biomass being done as a traditional cultural practice during the preparation of the seed plot of rice cultivation. The biomass is collected by lopping the wild trees. The rationale of this practice is to add ash to the site of the seed plot as well as to make it free from the pests. The other objective of the pilot experiment was to assess SRT as an alternative to traditional rice cultivation practice, in terms of yield and resource use efficiency.

SNM has collected data on major agronomic aspects of the crop starting from preparation of the SRT plots to harvesting. We are analyzing the information. Our primary observation as far as yield is concerned is that SRT plots have yielded three times the yield of conventional plots. 

Documentation of wildlife: In the reporting period SNM had set up camera traps in three blocks namely, Chiplun, Khed and Guhagar in Ratnagiri district. Total 985 attempts with help of 6 cameras have been done. The wildlife activity documented in these attempts is being used as educational and awareness generation material. SNM has prepared a set of flex boards for awareness generation on rich wildlife in this area. These boards are displayed in the villages on certain occasions like village festivals, sports meets etc.