Manager Agriculture (Organic & Regenerative Agriculture Development)

Raah Foundation is seeking a Manager for Agriculture focused on organic and regenerative practices in Palghar, India. The role involves designing and implementing agricultural programs, providing technical support to farmers, conducting training, and developing market linkages. Responsibilities also include monitoring project progress, collaborating with various stakeholders, and advocating for supportive policies in agriculture. The position requires strong community engagement and expertise in sustainable farming.
Position- Manager-Agriculture

Location: Palghar

Key Responsibilities:

Program Development and Implementation:
• Design, develop, and implement agricultural development programs focused on organic farming, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable land management practices, specifically tailored to the agro-climatic conditions of Palghar District.
• Conduct needs assessments to identify challenges and opportunities in the agricultural sector of Palghar.
• Develop project proposals, work plans, budgets, and monitoring frameworks for agriculture development initiatives in cordination with filed team .
• Ensure timely and effective implementation of projects, adhering to project timelines and budgets.

Technical Expertise and Training:
• Provide technical guidance and support to farmers on organic farming practices, including crop selection, soil management, pest and disease control, water conservation, and post-harvest handling.
• Organize and conduct training programs, workshops, and demonstrations on organic and regenerative agriculture techniques for farmers and extension workers.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in organic agriculture, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable farming practices, and disseminate this knowledge to farmers and stakeholders.
• Promote the adoption of integrated farming systems and agroforestry practices.
• Farmer Engagement and Community Mobilization:
• Build strong relationships with farmers, farmer groups, and community organizations in Palghar District.
• Mobilize farmers to participate in agricultural development programs and adopt organic and regenerative farming practices.
• Facilitate farmer-to-farmer learning and knowledge sharing.
• Establish and support farmer producer organizations (FPOs) to improve market access and bargaining power for farmers.
• Market Linkages and Value Chain Development:
• Identify and develop market linkages for organic produce from Palghar District.
• Work with FPOs and other stakeholders to improve post-harvest handling, processing, and packaging of organic products.
• Explore opportunities for value addition to agricultural products.
• Promote the marketing of organic produce through direct sales, farmers' markets, and other channels.

Monitoring and Evaluation:
• Establish and maintain a robust monitoring and evaluation system to track the progress and impact of agricultural development programs.
• Collect and analyze data on crop yields, soil health, water conservation, and farmer incomes.Prepare regular progress reports and impact assessments.
• Identify lessons learned and best practices to improve program effectiveness.

Collaboration and Partnerships:
• Collaborate with government agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and other stakeholders to promote organic and regenerative agriculture in Palghar District.
• Represent the organization at relevant meetings, workshops, and conferences.
• Build partnerships with private sector companies to support agricultural development initiatives.

Advocacy and Policy Influence:
• Advocate for policies and programs that support organic and regenerative agriculture.
• Raise awareness among policymakers and the public about the benefits of organic farming and sustainable agriculture.
• Participate in relevant policy discussions and consultations.

Soil and Water Conservation:
• Promote soil conservation practices such as contour bunding, terracing, and cover cropping.
• Encourage water harvesting and efficient irrigation techniques.
• Promote the use of organic amendments to improve soil fertility and water retention.

Organic Certification Support:
• Guide and support farmers in obtaining organic certification for their farms and products.
• Ensure compliance with organic standards and regulations.
• Facilitate inspections and audits.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate records of all project activities.
• Prepare regular reports on project progress, challenges, and achievements.
• Document best practices and lessons learned.

Qualification and Experience
• Diploma ,Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field.
• Minimum [5-7] years of experience in agricultural development, with a focus on organic farming and regenerative agriculture.
• Strong understanding of organic farming principles, regenerative agriculture techniques, and sustainable land management practices.
• Experience in working with farmers, community groups, and government agencies.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Marathi and English.
• Knowledge of local agro-climatic conditions and farming systems in Palghar District.
• Experience in project management, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Familiarity with organic certification standards and processes.
• Computer literacy (MS Office, data analysis software).

Skills:
• Technical knowledge of organic and regenerative agriculture
• Project Management
• Community Mobilization
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Training and Facilitation
• Data Analysis and Reporting
• Networking and Partnership Building
• Problem-solving
• Advocacy

Budget Management
• Local Language Proficiency (Marathi)

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Schedule:
• Day shift
• Weekend availability

Work Location: In person