Bird-K Project Implementor

BAIF Institute for Rural Development –Karnataka has its roots in the nature cure centre namely, Nisargopachar Ashram established by Mahatma Gandhi in 1946. Inspired by Gandhiji and his works Dr.Manibhai Desai, a trusted disciple of Gandhiji, committed his life for the cause of rural development.

Based on his long association with the rural people and insights gained during the 20 years of his voluntary works at Urulikanchan in 1967 Manibhaiji established the organisation BAIF (Bharatheeya Agro-Industries Foundation) which was renamed on a later stage as BAIF Development Research Foundation.  As the organisation grew in number of projects and geographical coverage, state level societies were formed to ensure efficient administration. BAIF group of voluntary organisations, today operates in 11 states in India.

BAIF Institute for Rural Development –Karnataka (BIRD-K) is BAIF’s unit that currently functions in Karnataka.  It is a society registered under the Karnataka Society Registration Act, 1960. Research, training and formulation and field implementation of development projects are the major activities of the organisation. Various development projects presently implemented by BIRD-K covers 21 districts in Karnataka.

While the administrative head quarters of BIRD-K is located in Tiptur, a small town in Tumkur district of Karnataka, its 500 acres campus is situated at Lakkihally, a village located at a distance of 10 Kms from Tiptur. The campus houses a training center called ‘Gramodaya’ and is engaged in issue based research activities in areas such as vegetative propagation, sericulture, composting, soil and water conservation and agriculture technologies etc.

Role of line departments/NGO/PRI's

Though the project will be implemented by BIRD-K, line departments, other NGOs and Panchayat Raj Institutions will be involved in project planning, implementation and monitoring. The line departments will be assisting the project team with technical guidance, as many components mentioned in the project require technical input. Bank linkages will be established. In general, sustainability of the project will be largely depending upon the linkage it could establish with the mainstream institutions.