Institutional Learning and Change Initiative

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Abstract:

When we first thought of taking up SRI (System of Rice Intensification) activities in the state in early 2007, the landscape of innovation was sparse and scattered. There was some experience on SRI by farmers and a few NGOs none of whom were aware of each other’s knowledge. Yet, these actors were linking up with SRI actors from other states to access, experiment and even improve upon SRI practices. The results were extremely encouraging even in the very first cropping season without complete knowledge, training and availability of weeders and markers. Small, marginal and tribal farmers were excited about the implications of SRI for their food security encouraging us to explore options for policy
support and expansion. The initial discussions that Prof Radhamohan and I and later Debasis Mohapatra had with some governmental agencies including the Directorate of Agriculture and Food Production was extremely encouraging. We were keen that the government recognises and builds on the SRI innovation capacity that these actors demonstrated. This led to the first multi-stakeholder workshop or the launch of the platform for Learning Alliance in the state in June 2007.