Development training of marginal farmers in india

Abstract

This paper by Dr. Rajesh Tandon examines the development training of marginal farmers in India as a case study as methods of interventions for development among rural poor communities. The paper begins by arguing for the need of developmental strategies to focus on individual development in micro settings to initiate macro development. It underlines some basic but necessary principles of training that leads to creation of awareness, knowledge, skills, as well as catalysing actions. The paper then presents a detailed case study of a three day residential training programme conducted with two peer groups from Pati and Pura villages in collaboration with Seva Mandir, an agency in Udaipur. It explains how dialogue, group sessions, and role plays were used to develop awareness of village problems, understanding of power dynamics, and confidence of villagers in organizing. The paper then concludes with listing out some important points to be considered by the trainers as part of the training programs.