Institute of Rural Development &
Management Studies
We work for sustainable rural development through research, training, agriculture productivity enhancement and livelihood improvement programs.
Training &
Capacity Building
Research &
Policy Support
Agriculture &
Water Management
Livelihood &
Entrepreneurship
IRDMS
Provides the
Solution
Irdms tackles the key causes of rural poverty by taking a holistic approach to rejuvenate rural communities and the ecosystems in which they live. The focus is on mobilising rural people and building their capacities to efficiently manage the land, water, and forests that surround them. Working at the grassroots, WOTR creates resilient rural communities that enjoy a fulfilling life within vibrant and sustainable ecosystems.
IRDMS
Provides the
Solution
IRDMS is a Civil Society Organization working in the state of Odisha since 1995. The organization started its program with the help of a group of young people who had been working actively in the social sector for a significant period on a volunteering mode. In the absence of much resource this group of youths tried to empower the people so that they can raise their voice to get their entitlements from the authorities. But the youths were heartened by the spontaneous response from the people. As a result of this response and request of the people to make it more diverse and more effective it was decided to formalize this group and give it a legal status. Later this forum was given appropriate legal status as per the law of land.
Irdms
Provides the
Solution
Irdms tackles the key causes of rural poverty by taking a holistic approach to rejuvenate rural communities and the ecosystems in which they live. The focus is on mobilising rural people and building their capacities to efficiently manage the land, water, and forests that surround them. Working at the grassroots, Irdms creates resilient rural communities that enjoy a fulfilling life within vibrant and sustainable ecosystems.
Livelihoods
Women Empowerment
Health Sanitation & Nutrition
How IRDMS Operates
IRDMS Impact
IRDMS has been working with rural communities in Odisha for nearly three decades. Through its various programs and partnerships, IRDMS has reached thousands of families across multiple districts, empowering them to access their rights, improve livelihoods, and build resilient communities. Over the years, the organization has trained and supported hundreds of grassroots leaders and community-based organizations to create lasting social change.
30+
years of service in Odisha
1000s
families reached and supported
500+
grassroots leaders trained
100+
community-based organizations empowered
Resilience
building stronger and sustainable livelihoods
Ecosystem-Based Approach for Sustainable Rural Development in Odisha
To effectively address rural poverty and social exclusion, IRDMS implements strategic interventions that empower marginalized communities and promote sustainable rural development in Odisha. By adopting a holistic, community-driven approach, IRDMS focuses on improving livelihoods, strengthening local governance, and ensuring access to basic rights and entitlements. Its programs emphasize capacity building, women's empowerment, education, health, and natural resource management so that communities become self-reliant and resilient. This mission is aligned with national development goals and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Kandhabanta Village
Gania Block, Nayagarh District, Odisha
856
Population
178
Households
980 ha
Village Area
BEFORE IRDMS: Kandhabanta village faced acute poverty, lack of irrigation facilities, poor access to education and healthcare,
and large-scale seasonal migration.
AFTER IRDMS INTERVENTION: With community mobilization, self-help group formation, livelihood diversification,
and water conservation programs, Kandhabanta has transformed. The village now has improved agricultural productivity,
better income opportunities, and enhanced access to government schemes, reducing distress migration and improving
the quality of life for its people.
