Evaluation of Consumption Credit, Short-term Agricultural Operations Credit and DR Depots Programme of Girijan Co-Operative Corporation in Nallamala Forest Area in AP

Abstract

This report pertains to Nallamala Hills of Mahaboobnagar, Kurnool and Prakasam districts inhabited by the two tribal groups namely Chenchu and the Lambada or Sugali. During 1990, Tribal Cultural Research & Training Institute, Andhra Pradesh has done a quick evaluation study on Consumption Credit, Short-term Agricultural Operations Credit and D.R. Depots Programme of Girijan Cooperative Corporation (GCC), Visakhapatnam so as to help in formulating this integrated scheme of action in a systematic way on a permanent and continuous basis. A short-term agricultural operation loan target of Rs. 30 lakhs is fixed to be given in kind (25%) and cash (75%). The quantum of assistance for each beneficiary is to be assessed basing on the cropping pattern and extent of land under cultivation. Consumption credit or disbursement of consumption credit the maximum limit Rs. 500/- per family to be given has to be sanctioned by the Shandy Inspector depending on the quantity of MFP being collected by the beneficiary. Overall impact of the scheme, it was very well received by the two tribal groups. All of them felt happy that they are no more at the mercy of private money lenders. In addition, the quantum of financing has to be determined keeping in view the cropping pattern as wet and dry crops and food and commercial crops need different investment patterns. This has to be arrived as per the amounts fixed by Government or NABARD. However, the tribals requested for a minimum of Rs. 1000/- per acre for dry land cultivation and Rs. 3000/- per acre fro wet land cultivation and for cash crops. The loans were utilized that 85% for purchase of fertilizers and pesticides and agriculture. The report also revealed that the concept of D.R. Depots sub divided to be managed by local educated tribal was well received. A large number of sub- depots were also started to ensure complete geographical coverage as at these depots daily requirements including essential commodities through their ration cards are sold to tribals. Majority of the Lambada or Sugali are settled agriculturists while many of them are also gatherers of minor forest produce.