The Tribal Development Fund (TDF) is a flagship programme of NABARD, implemented at the grassroots level through organizations like Mahashakti Seva Kendra. The project focuses on creating permanent livelihood assets for tribal households by developing orchard-based farming systems (Wadi), strengthening agricultural skills, and promoting self-reliance.
Enhance long-term income security of tribal households
Promote sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture
Reduce distress migration from tribal regions
Improve food and nutritional security
Strengthen confidence, self-reliance, and social empowerment
The Wadi model is an integrated farming approach that supports tribal families in developing fruit orchards on their own land. It combines horticulture, intercropping, and natural resource management to ensure year-round income and ecological sustainability.
Distribution of high-quality fruit saplings, technical guidance on plantation and maintenance, and promotion of organic farming inputs to build sustainable agricultural systems.
Support for intercropping during early years of orchard development, kitchen gardens, and allied livelihood activities to ensure continuous income.
Regular farmer training programs, exposure visits, skill development in orchard management, and continuous technical handholding.
Formation and strengthening of Village Development Committees (VDCs), training of local Wadi Mitras, and promotion of collective decision-making.
The project is implemented through a participatory and transparent approach involving beneficiary families, village institutions, and continuous technical support. This ensures community ownership, accountability, and long-term sustainability of livelihoods created under the project.
To build prosperous, self-reliant, and resilient tribal communities where families achieve dignified livelihoods while conserving natural resources for future generations.
