KSCSTE Grant-in-aid program

Location: MSSRF CAbC, Wayanad, Kerala

Funded by: Kerala State Council for Science Technology & Environment (KSCSTE)

Duration: Grant-in-aid (rolling as part of 5 year state plan with annual plan proposal)

Initiated in 2019-20; current duration 2023-24 to 2027-28

Objectives / Description: 

The overarching aim is to strengthen community efforts in conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity through a set of interlinked activities. The project intends to contribute towards building scientific knowledge base in the domain of agrobiodiversity and wild biodiversity; exploring measures and strategies for mitigation and adaptation to climate change through local action; improving livelihoods of marginalized people through training & capacity building; and building capacity of various stakeholders to sustain the conservation efforts.

The program has 4 key components 

Agrobiodiversity Research & Conservation Action: 

  • Community conservation plots/Rice Seed villages for traditional PGRs (Tubers, Paddy, Banana, Vegetables, Pepper, etc.)
  • Characterization of 10 Traditional rice varieties 
  • Collection & documentation of Agrobiodiversity in Wayanad 
  • School Nutrition gardens (10 Schools)
  • Support to Community Seed Fest and aligned programs with community

Wild Biodiversity 

  • Study the dynamics of NTFPs (utilization, opportunities, challenges, etc.) and prospects and capacity building for sustainable utilization in Wayanad (Study completed and capacity building to follow up)
  • Augmentation of Sacred groves and other public sites (temple. Institutions, etc.) with native RETs 
  • Collection, documentation & maintenance of wild biodiversity for germplasm (RETs, leafy greens, wild tubers, etc.

Climate Action & Village Development

  • Greening programs in association with government departments, schemes, etc. 
  • Training & capacity building on livelihood & skill development (Farmers, stakeholders, disaster affected community)
  • Field Research & Demonstration on climate resilient practices/varieties (Kulothada Cowpea characterization study underway – GI tag prospects)
  • Agri inputs support to the marginalized community 

Community Knowledge & Skill Development

  • 15 Days Biodiversity Short Course 
  • Training programs for various stakeholders (PRI, BMC, students, etc.)
  • Awareness & educational programs on Biodiversity & Environment for school students & youths (Bio-STEM lab activities)