Agroecological Homestead Model (AHM): technical and implementation report, Madhya Pradesh, India

Malaiappan, S.; Gadewar, P.; Goverdhanam, S.; Konwar, D.; Kumar, G.; Krishnan, S.; Sikka, A. 2024. Agroecological Homestead Model (AHM): technical and implementation report, Madhya Pradesh, India. Colombo, Sri Lanka: International Water Management Institute (IWMI). CGIAR Initiative on Agroecology. 24p.

The Agroecological Homestead Model (AHM), conceptualized under the CGIAR Agroecology Initiative in collaboration with PRADAN, provides an innovative framework to address critical challenges faced by tribal communities in Mandla district, Madhya Pradesh, India. These challenges include dietary monotony, malnutrition, irregular income, and resource degradation. Rooted in agroecological principles, AHM offers a sustainable and holistic approach to managing homestead resources.

The AHM integrates diverse elements such as multilayer farming systems, natural composting techniques, water harvesting through Jal Kund, backyard poultry farming, livestock rearing, and beekeeping. Its participatory codesign process involved local farmers, women’s self-help groups, and other stakeholders, ensuring the model's adaptability and relevance to the local context. The implementation process included baseline assessments, visioning exercises, stakeholder consultations, exposure visits, and tailored training programs to equip participants with the knowledge and tools for sustainable homestead management.

AHM has significantly enhanced production diversity (over 350%), dietary diversity (100%), and the consumption of nutrient-rich foods such as leafy greens (70% increase). Additionally, it has improved protein intake and created opportunities for regularized income, empowering marginalized communities, particularly women. The model has also demonstrated the potential to optimize resource use efficiency, strengthen resilience to climatic and economic shocks, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Despite its successes, the implementation of AHM encountered challenges, including resource limitations, knowledge gaps, pest infestations, and extreme weather events. These lessons highlight the need for enhanced training, improved market linkages, and site-specific adjustments to the model.

Future directions for AHM include developing typologies based on resource availability, incorporating mid-course corrections from field learnings, and integrating AHM into regional and national agricultural extension frameworks. Emphasis will also be placed on scaling the model through partnerships, impact assessments, and policy advocacy to promote sustainable livelihoods and food security across diverse agroecological contexts.

This document serves as a comprehensive guide for implementing the AHM, offering practical insights into its design, components, and transformative potential for rural communities. It underscores the importance of agroecological innovations in creating resilient, sustainable, and inclusive food systems.