India’s rainfed regions support a large share of the country’s smallholder and tribal farmers and contribute significantly to food production. Despite receiving substantial seasonal rainfall, these regions continue to face agricultural vulnerability because water is inadequately captured, stored and distributed beyond the monsoon period. In the context of increasing climate variability, decentralised irrigation has become critical for enhancing agricultural productivity, strengthening livelihood resilience and improving water security for rural communities. 

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) working in these regions are important actors in watershed development, community mobilisation and natural resource management. However, consultations with practitioners reveal a critical capacity gap. While many organisations are able to create water-harvesting structures, they often lack the technical and institutional capabilities required to assess irrigation potential, design small irrigation systems, access government support mechanisms and establish sustainable community-led management. As a result, water conservation efforts frequently do not translate into improved irrigation and livelihood outcomes. 

Who should attend?

Project managers and frontline functionaries of CSOs who work on the ground to guide the implementation of irrigation projects, preferably with more than 3 years of experience.

Eligibility and selection

All applicants must possess a working knowledge of Hindi and English, and Basic Arithmetic skills. Applicants will be shortlisted based on their applications followed by a telephonic interview. 

Certificate of participation

The participants will be awarded a Certificate of Participation after successfully attending all the days and submitting assignments.