AFPRO

15/08/2026

05/08/2026

31/07/2026

A healthy harvest begins with a healthy farmer!

Every season, farmers work tirelessly to nourish our communities. But without the right protection, even a routine task like spraying fertilizers and pesticides can put their health at risk.

To make farming safer, under Project SANGAM funded by Vedanta Aluminium Metal Limited, AFPRO is conducting Training & Awareness Programs on safe and responsible use of fertilizers and pesticides.

Covering 23 project villages in Lanjigarh, Kalahandi district, Odisha, and empowering 400+ farmers, including Farmers Field School (FFS) members and progressive farmers, the trainings comprise –

Safe handling, storage, and disposal of fertilizers & pesticides
· Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
· Scientific application techniques
· First-aid measures and emergency response
· Environment- friendly farming practices

Through live demonstrations, participants practiced safe spraying techniques, correct PPE usage, cleaning equipment, and personal hygiene after chemical application. To encourage lasting behavioral change, PPE kits were distributed, so that by using these kits, ensuring safety while handling agrochemicals becomes a habit—not just a lesson.

By promoting awareness and providing the right protective equipment, the project is helping farmers safeguard their health, reduce occupational risks, and embrace more sustainable agricultural practices.

Together, we're growing more than crops—we're cultivating safer farms, healthier families, and stronger rural communities.

30/07/2026

Associate with AFPRO as a Sectoral Specialist or Domain Expert.
AFPRO invites experienced professionals to join its Empanelment of Sectoral Specialists and Domain Experts on a consultancy basis for assignments in Tamil Nadu.

If your expertise lies in Agriculture, Water Resources, Natural Resource Management, Climate Resilience, Livelihoods, Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL), ESG, or other specialised areas relevant to AFPRO's thematic interventions, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our network of experts.

📍 Location: Tamil Nadu
Language proficiency in Tamil is Mandatory.

📲 Apply by scanning the QR code on the poster or using the Google Form link below:

🔗 Google Form Link- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSce94jxLKO9efJ-IxR56GP_S9NzSTj_JgamTV_p3IgrFe9TaQ/viewform?usp=dialog

29/07/2026

Associate with AFPRO as a Sectoral Specialist or Domain Expert.
AFPRO invites experienced professionals to join its Empanelment of Sectoral Specialists and Domain Experts on a consultancy basis for assignments in Tamil Nadu.

If your expertise lies in Agriculture, Water Resources, Natural Resource Management, Climate Resilience, Livelihoods, Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL), ESG, or other specialised areas relevant to AFPRO's thematic interventions, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our network of experts.

📍 Location: Tamil Nadu
📲 Apply by scanning the QR code on the poster or using the Google Form link below:
🔗 Google Form Link- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdO0qr71Lq-K3bNSiVcOwUDBLdjWs8gSBCxzSd_xJgt74uSAQ/viewform?usp=header

24/07/2026

In Memoriam

Davy Kurian Manavalan, IAS (Retd.)
27th March,1941– 22nd July 2026

It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the passing of Mr. Davy Kurian Manavalan, IAS (Retd.), former Executive Director of AFPRO, who left for his heavenly abode on 22 July 2026, surrounded by the loving presence of his family. With his passing, the nation loses a distinguished civil servant, an inspiring development leader, and a gentleman whose life was defined by an unwavering commitment to public service with wisdom, compassion, humility and integrity.

Over a career spanning decades, Mr. Manavalan rendered exemplary service to the Government of India, rising to the position of Secretary to the Government of India, where he earned widespread respect for his visionary leadership, sound judgment, and steadfast dedication to the public good.
Retirement did not slow him; it redirected him. His commitment to nation-building continued well beyond his years in government.

As Executive Director of AFPRO from 2001 - 2021, he turned his attention to the ground realities of rural India, empowering the organization to advance sustainable rural development, strengthening of community-based institutions, and the patient work of improving the lives and livelihoods of countless rural families across India.

While his professional achievements were many, those who knew Mr. Manavalan will remember him above all for the person he was. He possessed a rare blend of intellect and compassion, authority and humility. He listened with patience, spoke with wisdom, and led with conviction. His warmth, graciousness, and genuine concern for others earned him the admiration and affection of colleagues, development practitioners, community leaders, and friends alike. He believed that leadership was measured not merely by positions held, but by the lives touched and the dignity accorded to every individual.

Mr. Manavalan leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the offices he occupied. His life stands as a testament to an enduring belief in the transformative power of compassion, justice, and inclusive development. The institutions he strengthened, the communities he served, and the countless individuals he mentored will continue to bear witness to his remarkable contribution.

Mr. Manavalan's ethical and visionary leadership, dedication to sustainable rural development, and invaluable contributions to AFPRO have left an indelible mark on the organization and the communities it serves. His wisdom, integrity, and commitment will continue to inspire for years to come.

AFPRO family paid tribute to Mr. D. K. Manavalan to honour his remarkable life and legacy, sharing fond memories and offering their prayers, remembering his lasting impact on AFPRO and the development sector.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May they find solace in the cherished memories they hold and in the extraordinary legacy of a life lived with purpose, dignity, and grace.

May the Almighty grant eternal peace to his noble soul and give strength and comfort to his family

16/07/2026

Driving Sustainable Change Through Partnership

Recently, Mr. Prashant Burman, Senior Manager, CSR, HDFC Bank Limited visited the HDFC HRDP Parivartan Project being implemented by AFPRO (Action for Food Production) at Mainpur, Gariyaband, Chhattisgarh, to review the progress and impact of community-driven development initiatives.

The two-day field visit showcased a range of sustainable interventions that are strengthening rural livelihoods and improving quality of life, including:

Wadi Development

Farm & Community Ponds

Solar Drinking Water Systems & Solar Street Lights

Anganwadi Centres

Land Levelling

Soil Testing Unit

Poultry Unit

SHG-managed Leaf Plate Unit

Field interactions offered an opportunity to engage directly with community members, assess the progress of ongoing initiatives, and explore ways to strengthen long-term impact. Valuable feedback and strategic recommendations focused on enhancing implementation, promoting stronger community ownership, improving documentation, and ensuring sustainable outcomes.

Every visit reinforces a shared vision—where partnerships empower communities, inspire resilience, and create lasting change. Together, we're building stronger villages, sustainable livelihoods, and a brighter future.
Parivartan AFPRO

14/07/2026

Associate with AFPRO as a Sectoral Specialist or Domain Expert
AFPRO invites experienced professionals to join its Empanelment of Sectoral Specialists and Domain Experts on a consultancy basis across its core thematic sectors.
Whether your expertise lies in Agriculture, Water Resources, Natural Resource Management, Climate Resilience, Livelihoods, Monitoring & Evaluation, ESG, or any other specialised areas relevant to AFPRO's strategic interventions , we encourage qualified professionals to apply and become a part of our growing network of experts.
📍 Apply by scanning the QR code or using the google link below:
🔗 Google form Link
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfKwvzw9zVA35eEUxvtAL7GE9S9lI13J3EBlIuXVeGFVvZnZw/viewform?usp=header

Together, let's build sustainable solutions and create lasting impact across communities.

08/07/2026

From Opportunity to Prosperity: Empowering Rural Families Through Poultry Farming

Every new beginning creates another success story!

Building on the remarkable success of the first three poultry units under the Project SANGAM, two more poultry units have now been inaugurated in Bhatguda and Maskapadar villages, creating new opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and economic independence. The project is supported by Vedanta Limited, Lanjigarh and being implemented by AFPRO in Kalahandi, Odisha.

The inauguration was led by Mr. Sisir Tarafder, CSR Head. The occasion was further enriched by the presence of Dr. Udit Narayan Bariha, Veterinary Assistant Surgeon, who shared valuable insights on scientific poultry management and animal healthcare.

To help each enterprise thrive, every beneficiary received:

500 broiler chicks

Poultry feed

Feeders and drinkers

Essential veterinary medicines

What makes this initiative truly inspiring is the determination of the beneficiaries themselves. By constructing their own poultry sheds, they have demonstrated ownership, resilience, and a strong commitment to building a better future.

This initiative is about far more than poultry farming. It is about empowering rural households with sustainable income opportunities, fostering self-reliance, and creating resilient communities where families can thrive with dignity.

Through the Project SANGAM, we continue to transform aspirations into achievements—one livelihood, one family, and one community at a time.

Vedanta Aluminium Metal Limited AFPRO

SustainableLivelihoods

03/07/2026

Reviving Tradition, Rebuilding Livelihoods: When Tradition Meets Opportunity, Lives Transform.

Traditional pottery is not just a source of income—it is a living expression of our cultural heritage. For generations, pottery has been a part of life and culture in Lanjigarh, Odisha. But for many artisan families, low income and limited resources made it difficult to keep this tradition alive.

Through Project SANGAM funded by Vedanta Limited, Lanjigarh in Kalahandi district, Odisha and being implemented by AFPRO, a strong impetus is being provided to rebuild livelihoods of pottery artisans. Three traditionally artisan families received support worth ₹2.28 lakh in May 2024, including electric pottery wheels, hand tools, mould sets, raw materials, and specialized training in product design and marketing.

The remarkable results speak for themselves: annual income of these families has increased to about ₹1.8- ₹2 lakh in a year, averaging above ₹15000 per month. Compare this with the average monthly income of ₹2,000–3,000 being earned by them earlier.

Improved product designs, the introduction of new products and reduction in manual efforts have enhanced production efficiency, and improved livelihood opportunities. While the surrounding villages continue to be the primary market, growing demand during weddings and village festivals is expanding sales and strengthening local enterprise.

The ripple effect continues. Inspired by this success, four more artisans have applied for government support of ₹1.30 lakh each to establish dedicated pottery worksheds. They further plan to take individual loans for subsidized electric pottery equipment. Besides this, 30 artisans from 10 families have enrolled on the Government Artisan Portal, unlocking access to welfare schemes and social security benefits.

This demonstrates growing confidence, self-reliance, and sustainability within the artisan community. This is a livelihood story of tradition being strengthened, dignity being restored, and hope being shaped by hand - one clay product at a time.

AFPRO(Action for Food Production) Vedanta Aluminium Metal Limited