Regional Workshop cum Orientation Programme for UBA Coordinators on 09.03.26

Regional Workshop cum Orientation Programme for UBA Coordinators A Regional Workshop cum Orientation Programme for the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) Coordinators of Participating Institutes (PIs) was conducted on 9 March 2026 at St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli, organized by the Regional Coordinating Institute (RCI), DABD, TNAU, Coimbatore, with the approval of the National Coordinating Institute (NCI), IIT Delhi. The programme commenced at 9:30 AM with the objective of strengthening the implementation of UBA activities at both the institutional and village levels. The workshop aimed to provide strategic guidance to the UBA coordinators and to review the progress and impact of various rural development initiatives carried out by participating institutions. During the session, the role and responsibilities of Regional Coordinating Institutes (RCIs) were explained, including guidance and monitoring of participating institutes, facilitation of fund sourcing through project proposals, coordination of village-level development activities, and ensuring policy alignment with national guidelines issued by the Government of India. The programme highlighted the recent activities of RCI, TNAU, Coimbatore (2025–2026) in thematic areas such as organic farming, water resource management, renewable energy, artisan industries and livelihood, and basic amenities. Several initiatives undertaken in adopted villages were presented, including organic kitchen gardens, azolla cultivation, vermicomposting, rainwater harvesting structures, solar irrigation systems, installation of solar dryers, and awareness programmes on sustainable agricultural practices. Further discussions emphasized community development and sustainability initiatives, including sanitation and solid waste management awareness, clean village campaigns, health and nutrition programmes, digital literacy and educational support for students, environmental protection activities, and tree plantation drives. Participating Institutes were advised to actively conduct baseline surveys and village needs assessments, prepare Village Development Plans (VDPs), promote sustainable agriculture and natural farming, organize skill development programmes for rural youth and women, and create awareness on various government welfare schemes. Student participation in Gram Sabha meetings and village development activities was also encouraged to enhance community engagement. The meeting also reviewed the UBA project implementation and achievements, including seed money projects, rural technology interventions, and development activities aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of rural communities. The workshop concluded with discussions on the action plan for the year 2026–2027, encouraging participating institutes to enhance collaboration, increase the scale of rural outreach activities, and document success stories and best practices. The programme ended with a vote of thanks, appreciating the organizers and all participating UBA coordinators for their active involvement and commitment to rural development under the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan initiative.