Project assistance completion report : Maharashtra social forestry project (no. 386-0478)

The project purpose has generally been achieved. Public and private nurseries produced 45.8 million seedlings in 1986-87 (the last year of project assistance for seedling production) vs. a goal of 23 million. Moreover, 167 million seedlings were produced with funds from the state of Maharashtra and the Government of India in 1989-90. Some 75,000 ha of tree plantations were established with project funds (vs. a targeted 81,000 ha), and 199,000 ha were established subsequently with state funds. The state government"s initiative to increase social forestry afforestation following termination of USAID/I field assistance clearly demonstrates SFD"s intention to expand and sustain the program. Also, all 4,300 targeted villages were reached by SFD extension staff. The SFD created divisions with trained, experienced staff in each of 27 districts. In-country training programs were conducted for SFD staff and villagers, including social workers, council members, students, and teachers. Villager training programs focused primarily on seedling growth and tree establishment, while staff training dealt with issues like rural sociology, extension, and communication. The project also supported overseas training for SFD officials in specialized areas. However, while the in-country training programs exceeded targets, only 60% of the overseas training target was attained, due to elaborate or delayed government nominating procedures. Biological research and socioeconomic studies were carried out either through SFD departments or contracts with other institutions, and are expected to contribute to technical improvements and better market links. Preliminary results of biological research have been disseminated through the state training and visit extension system. Findings of the socioeconomic studies will help SFD consider alternative policy options and changes to support social forestry and related wasteland development programs.