by Fr Bento D’Souza for BIS Mumbai

In an era where the depletion of natural resources threatens global sustainability, grassroots initiatives that empower communities to manage their resources are more vital than ever. From March 10 to 12, 2025, Tata Power Community Development Trust (TPCDT) and Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK), Ahmednagar, hosted a transformative three-day residential program on Village Natural Resources Management Committees (VRNMC). Designed to equip farmers and villagers with skills for sustainable resource management, the event blended knowledge sharing, participatory governance, and innovative technology to foster inclusive rural development.

The program commenced with an inspiring keynote by Dr S.B. Kharbade, Associate Dean of Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth Rahuri, who underscored the urgency of balancing agrarian practices with ecological preservation. “Optimal utilization of land, water, and forests—without exploitation—is key to sustainable development,” he emphasized, setting the tone for sessions that combined theory, dialogue, and hands-on learning. Day one delved into dryland agriculture challenges, with Dr Bhondave advocating crop rotation and water conservation, while Dr Ashok Sabban reimagined decentralized governance through participatory budgeting and social audits. A highlight was Ms Komal Rokade’s demonstration of GIS and drone technology, revealing how mapping and monitoring resources could revolutionize village planning. Participants were particularly intrigued by MPKV’s Drone Pilot Training Program, a gateway to tech-driven farming.

Day two shifted focus to collaborative problem-solving. Dr Sukhdeo Ransing and Mr Anil Jadhav from NABARD outlined strategies for overcoming dryland adversities, from agroforestry to subsidy access. The interactive village development plan workshop became a cornerstone of the program. Divided into groups, participants drafted blueprints for sustainable growth, integrating local resources and community input. Mr Sabban’s feedback refined their ideas, stressing inclusivity and practicality. Later, sessions on water harvesting by Dr Uttam Bhand and livestock management by Dr Dilip Devkar bridged traditional wisdom with modern techniques, equipping attendees with actionable solutions.

The finale saw Tata Power’s Mr A.G. Patil and Mr Paresh Sahastrabuddhe reaffirming their commitment to rural empowerment, citing success stories like women’s SHGs in Rajasthan. A study tour to MPKV Rahuri capped the event, allowing participants to witness sustainable practices firsthand. Mahadeo Veer, a farmer attendee, encapsulated the sentiment: “This program broadened our vision. We’re eager to replicate these ideas back home.”

By merging expert insights with community-driven dialogue, the VRNMC program not only educated but also inspired a collective resolve to steward natural resources responsibly. As villages face mounting ecological pressures, such initiatives light the path toward resilience, proving that sustainable development begins where knowledge meets action.