Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences & Technology Trust
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Mission Statement
The mission of the Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences & Technology Trust (SSIAST) is to foster sustainable agricultural practices, environmental conservation, and socio-economic development, with a special emphasis on empowering tribal and rural communities. The Trust is dedicated to promoting Sri Sri Natural Farming techniques, to improve soil health and ecosystem resilience. Through large-scale plantation initiatives, the development of model farms, seed bank conservation, and comprehensive farmer education programs, SSIAST aims to enhance agricultural productivity, biodiversity, and livelihoods. The Trust also prioritizes the empowerment of marginalized communities, particularly women and youth, through education and sustainable income-generating activities. SSIAST is committed to environmental conservation and climate action by advocating for sustainable practices and promoting agroforestry. Furthermore, the Trust engages in research and development to advance knowledge in sustainable agriculture, collaborates with various stakeholders to amplify its impact, and implements community-centric development initiatives. Ultimately, SSIAST Trust envisions a future where natural farming, environmental stewardship, and community well-being are at the heart of rural development, contributing to the preservation of the planet for future generations.
About This Cause
The Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Trust (SSIAST) is a leading organization focused on sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and rural development, particularly benefiting tribal and marginalized communities. Founded under the guidance of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, SSIAST operates as a Centre of Excellence recognized by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India. The Trust aims to foster a sustainable agricultural future through natural farming, large-scale plantation drives, the establishment of model farms, and seed bank initiatives. Its mission emphasizes empowering farmers, especially women, through education and training that promotes economic independence and environmental stewardship. 1. Promotion of Natural Farming and Organic Agriculture SSIAST champions the natural farming movement, advocating for ecologically sustainable and economically viable agricultural practices. The Trust's approach is grounded in Vriksha Ayurveda, which emphasizes harmony between nature and agriculture. Key Initiatives: • Natural Farming Training Programs: SSIAST provides extensive training for farmers on natural farming techniques that reduce reliance on chemical inputs. Topics include soil health management, water conservation, and natural fertilizers. • Organic Certification Support: The Trust assists farmers in obtaining organic certification, enhancing their access to premium markets and improving their income. • Demonstration Farms: SSIAST operates farms showcasing sustainable practices, serving as live examples for farmers to learn from. 2. Large-scale Plantation Drives Recognizing the critical role of trees, SSIAST conducts large-scale plantation drives aimed at combating deforestation and restoring degraded lands. Key Initiatives: • Mega Plantation Drives: These campaigns involve planting millions of saplings and mobilizing volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including students, farmers, and corporate employees. • Agroforestry Promotion: Integrating trees with crops and livestock enhances biodiversity, improves soil health, and increases farm productivity. • Community and School Engagement: SSIAST engages schools and local communities in tree-planting activities to foster environmental responsibility among the younger generation. 3. Development of Model Farms Model farms are essential to SSIAST's strategy for demonstrating sustainable agricultural practices. Key Initiatives: • Centers of Excellence: SSIAST establishes model farms as Centers of Excellence in natural farming, providing practical insights into best practices for farmers. • Training and Capacity Building: These farms host workshops and hands-on training for farmers, agricultural students, and extension workers, covering a range of sustainable farming techniques. • Research and Innovation: Collaborations with academic institutions enable ongoing research in sustainable agriculture, with results shared with the farming community. 4. Seed Bank Development and Conservation SSIAST emphasizes preserving seed diversity through the establishment of seed banks that conserve indigenous seed varieties. Key Initiatives: • Seed Banks: The Trust maintains seed banks containing a wide range of indigenous seeds, ensuring quality and availability for sustainable farming practices. • Community Seed Saving Programs: SSIAST encourages farmers to engage in seed-saving initiatives, promoting the preservation of genetic diversity. • Seed Exchange Networks: Facilitating seed exchanges among farmers enhances agricultural biodiversity and promotes the use of resilient seed varieties. 5. Empowerment of Tribal and Rural Communities SSIAST is committed to uplifting tribal and rural communities through various initiatives. Key Initiatives: • Women Farmers Training: Specialized programs empower women farmers with skills and knowledge, enhancing their roles in agriculture and leadership within their communities. • Tribal Community Projects: SSIAST implements agricultural initiatives that align with traditional practices, ensuring cultural sensitivity and community involvement. • Sustainable Livelihoods Initiatives: The Trust promotes the development of value-added products and eco-friendly enterprises, providing alternative income sources for rural communities. 6. Environmental Conservation and Climate Action SSIAST's environmental initiatives aim to protect natural resources and promote biodiversity. Key Initiatives: • Agroecology and Biodiversity Conservation: The Trust promotes practices that enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services, such as intercropping and agroforestry. • Water Conservation: SSIAST implements projects for rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation, helping farmers manage water resources sustainably. • Climate Resilience Programs: The Trust assists farmers in adopting strategies to increase their resilience to climate change impacts. 7. Farmer Education and Capacity Building Education is central to SSIAST’s mission, providing a variety of programs to enhance farmers' skills and knowledge. Key Initiatives: • Training Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops covering various sustainable agriculture topics are conducted to ensure practical application. • Digital Learning Platforms: Online courses and webinars are offered, enabling farmers to access high-quality education remotely. • Extension Services: SSIAST provides ongoing support through a network of agricultural teachers and extension workers who assist farmers in overcoming challenges. 8. Collaboration and Advocacy SSIAST emphasizes collaboration and advocacy to maximize its impact. Key Initiatives: • Partnerships and Collaborations: The Trust collaborates with government bodies, NGOs, and the private sector to implement programs and share best practices. • Policy Advocacy: SSIAST engages with policymakers to promote sustainable agriculture, ensuring the voices of smallholder farmers are heard. • Public Awareness Campaigns: Through media outreach and community events, SSIAST educates the public about the importance of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. SSIAST Trust is dedicated to transforming agriculture by promoting sustainable practices, empowering communities, and protecting the environment. Through its integrated approach, the Trust strives for a sustainable future for agriculture, ensuring that farmers, particularly from marginalized communities, thrive in harmony with nature.