The ecological synergy of people's mobilisation: Creating a balanced sheet of social and natural capital

This study explains different contributions made by Ama Sangathan that have helped to educate and mobilize the community in Orissa, India. The goal of the project is to empower indigenous communities and inspire them to protect and sustainably manage their resources. The Ama Sangathan Agency set up workshops and trainings to educate indigenous people about forest protection, land management, seed preservation, laws, and organic farming training. Through this movement, tribal groups, and tribal women especially, gain confidence to reach out to neighboring districts to collaborate and coordinate their management of resources and improve opportunities for trade. Through collective action, these tribal groups became more aware of land policies and natural resource conservation techniques.