P r o j e c t s

North Eastern Region Community Resource

Management Project for Upland Areas

(NERCRMP)

The North Eastern Region represents a unique socio-cultural framework and faces unique set of problems. These factors have not always been taken into account in the design and implementation of development programmes within the region. As a result, the impact of development initiatives has generally fallen short of expectations. Stagnation in the rural economy persists and low productivity jhum cultivation (slash and burn) continues on a wide scale. The shortening of the jhum cycle (down to 3-5 years) with its impact on declining fertility has resulted in continued encroachment on the forest resources and progressive land degradation. Most families recognise that jhum cultivation is no longer a sustainable livelihood system but they lack knowledge or conviction of alternative development options and the means to adopt them.

The role of the project is designed to demonstrate a new approach to development which focusss on interventions which are technically appropriate, culturally sensitive and institutionally effective. All interventions will be demand-driven and client oriented and for which the indigenous knowledge and capabilities of the communities will be recognised. It will also emphasise on transparency and accountability. Given the importance of the unique and immense biodiversity resources of the region, special attention is given to the interface between the requirements of the communities and the need to ensure adequate protection of the biodiversity stock.

Project Objectives

The overall objective is to improve the livelihood of vulnerable groups in a sustainable manner through improved management of their resource base. The specific objectives are:

• To promote a more sensitive approach to the design and implementation of development interventions.

• To enhance the capabilities of local people to manage new technologies and institutions at the village level

• To increase incomes through the development of more sustainable farming systems and the establishment of non-farm enterprises

• To establish effective and appropriate delivery systems for inputs (credit, extension, etc)

• To increase the participation of women in local institutions and in decision making processes within the community

• To enhance savings capacity

• To increase access to basic services and infrastructure facilities

Project Area

The project area is spread over three states within the North Eastern Region, Meghalaya, Manipur and the Hill districts of Assam. These areas form a contiguous band across the centre of the region. In the pilot phase, the project is implemented in West Garo Hills and West Khasi Hills in Meghalaya, Ukhrul and Senapati in Manipur and North Cachar Hills and Karbi Anglong in Assam.

Project Components

The components of the project are:

• Capacity Building of Communities and Participating Agencies

• Economic Livelihood Activities

• Community based Biodiversity Conservation

• Social Sector activities

• Village Roads and Rural Electrification

• Project Management

Project Costs and Financing

The total project cost over the seven year period is estimated at INR 1594 million (USD 33.2 million). IFAD loan component is USD 22.9 million (69%). Government of India’s contribution is USD 5.6 million (17%) and Institutional finance will contribute USD 1.3 million (4%). The beneficiaries will contribute USD 3.5 million (11%) in the form of labour and as their contribution to the credit funds of the SHGs.