Livelihood Program
Sustainable Livelihoods for Ultra-Poor Women via Producer Organizations
Covering 3,000 ultra-poor tribal women across multiple districts, this project establishes technology-driven producer organizations and rural marts. Women are trained in modern agricultural techniques, entrepreneurship, and market management, ensuring a monthly income of ?6,500-?10,000 while fostering long-term economic resilience.Cage Fish Farming in Hirakud, Odisha
SDF has implemented a livelihood initiative benefiting 1,000 fisherman families by introducing modern cage fish farming. The project provides technical training, digitization tools, and machinery, ensuring sustainable fishing practices and a steady source of income for participants.Craft Artisan Uttarakhand Project
Focused on rural artisans in Uttarkashi, this project supports traditional art and craft heritage through skill development, modern technology integration, and market linkages. Artisans are empowered to create quality products that meet contemporary demands, increasing their income and preserving cultural heritage.Skilling Transgender Communities
SDF’s livelihood initiative for the transgender community in Delhi focuses on skill development and micro-entrepreneurship. Participants receive training in trades like tailoring, handicrafts, and food processing, followed by mentorship and access to funding, enabling them to start sustainable enterprises.Handicraft Sector Development – Guru Shishya Hastashilp Prasikshan Program
This program trains rural artisans in terracotta crafts and applique techniques under master artisans of District Jharsuguda and Sambalpur. By integrating modern tools and design innovation, the initiative enhances product quality and marketability, creating sustainable livelihoods for participants.ITI Students’ Training in Farm Mechanization
SDF trains ITI students in the operation and maintenance of tractors and farm machinery. This initiative bridges the skill gap in agriculture-related industries, providing students with employable skills and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.Renewable Energy-Based Micro Enterprises
Promoting renewable energy for economic activities, SDF sets up solar-powered micro-enterprises, such as solar mills, water pumps, and cold storage units. These initiatives enhance productivity and income opportunities while reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.Vocational Training for Women in Rural Areas
SDF conducts training programs in tailoring, embroidery, and food processing for women in rural areas. The initiative equips women with skills to start home-based enterprises, enabling financial independence and improving their socio-economic status.Promotion of Pulses and Millet Processing Units
SDF establishes processing units for pulses and millets, creating value addition and direct market linkages. These units generate employment opportunities and empower farmers to earn better prices for their produce.Rural Tourism Development
SDF collaborates with local communities to develop rural tourism initiatives that highlight cultural heritage, crafts, and natural landscapes. By training community members as guides and promoting eco-tourism, the project creates alternative livelihood opportunities.Training and Employment for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)
SDF provides skill development and employment opportunities tailored to the needs of PwDs, including digital literacy and handicraft training. This initiative promotes social inclusion and ensures sustainable livelihoods for disabled individuals.Community-Based Agroforestry Enterprises
Agroforestry programs involve planting high-value trees alongside crops, providing farmers with dual income streams. SDF supports these initiatives by offering training, seedlings, and market linkages, contributing to financial stability and environmental sustainability.Mobile Rural Marts
SDF introduces mobile rural marts to enable small farmers and artisans to directly sell their products to consumers. This reduces intermediaries, enhances income, and provides underserved communities access to essential goods and services.Entrepreneurship Development Programs (EDP)
SDF conducts EDPs to equip rural youth and women with business management skills. Participants receive training in planning, budgeting, marketing, and accessing financial resources to establish their enterprises, fostering self-reliance and economic growth.Nutritional Gardens for Rural Households
SDF promotes the establishment of nutritional gardens in rural households, enabling families to grow their own vegetables and fruits. These gardens enhance food security, reduce household expenses, and generate surplus produce for sale.