There was a time when Kalahandi and endemic poverty, hunger and privation were synonymous. However, some positive changes have take place over the years and the face of poverty-hit district is changing thanks to intervention of social activists and civil society groups.
Exploitation used to be high in the past. The farmers, minor forest produce (MFP) collectors and manual workers were exploited like anything. Selfish elements who exploited the workers ruled the roost. For example, in the collection of MFP, the collectors were handed out a raw deal, while the middlemen made the hay.
Activist Jagdish Pradhan is one who worked like a crusader and his selfless efforts have borne fruits. He has been instrumental in bringing many reforms in several areas through campaigns involving several organizations, institutions and self-help groups (SHG). Pradhan emerged as the voice of the poor and marginalized sections. He also campaigned for environment protection and organic farming. The farmers used to depend on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. But after Pardhan’s campaigning, there was a shift in focus from chemical fertilizers to lowest-cost composting and vermin-composting. Organic cultivation yielded better crop-cycle.
He also spread awareness on food processing and the income opportunity there. He encouraged setting up of small units like oil production, spices making etc in the length and breadth of villages which increased the employment opportunity for the locals.
Animal husbandry and organic farming are complementary to each other. Farmers were told not only to grow turmeric, coriander and pepper crops but also sell them in packets with Swaraj brand. These spices have now a good market in the district and outside.
Aboriginal tribes are now getting a fair price for minor forest produce, thanks to interactive development campaign against monopoly of traders and middlemen. Aboriginal land rights campaign was carried on for ensuring their land rights.