Social Action for Community Alternative Learning

SACAL in Odisha strives for creating sustainable livelihoods and dignified live…

26th Annual Day observation

About Us

Social Action for Community Alternative Learning

Striving for sustainable livelihoods and dignified lives for tribal communities, women, and marginalized groups.

Social Action for Community Alternative Learning (SACAL) is a non-profit organization established in 2000 and headquartered in Berhampur, Ganjam district, Odisha. Dedicated to fostering sustainable and inclusive development, SACAL empowers marginalized communities—particularly Tribal, Dalit, and Women groups, through participatory approaches. Operating across 343 villages in Gajapati district and 103 villages in Ganjam district, SACAL focuses on strengthening community-based organisations, promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing livelihoods, ensuring access to education, health, nutrition, water, and sanitation, and building resilience against disasters. Guided by core values of holistic development, equality, participation at all levels, and transparency, SACAL envisions a democratic and compassionate society where all individuals enjoy freedom, dignity, and equal rights.

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Our focus area

Events

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On the eve of the SACAL team get-together, the team gathered at the scenic ROLA Waterfall in Ganjam

On 11th of this month, the SACAL team came together at ROLA Waterfall in Ganjam District. Staff members, Board Members, and Advisers participated with great enthusiasm and curiosity, strengthening bonds of cooperation, sharing experiences, and renewing their collective commitment towards community development.

11 Jan, 2026

Ragi Procurement 2025–26 at Dharakote Block, Ganjam District

Millets for Health | Farmers for Prosperity | Odisha for Sustainability” A Millet Food Stall was inaugurated on the eve of the Matshya O Pranee Sampad Mela at the Mini Stadium, Dharakote, on 26th December 2025, under the SAA Programme, Dharakote Block, organised by the Government of Odisha. The stall was inaugurated by the Honourable Minister of Fisheries & Animal Resources Development and MSME, Sri Gokulananda Mallik, in the esteemed presence of MLA Sri Ramesh Chandra Jena, Sri Biswanath Behera (BEO), Sri Anil Kumar Behera (AAO), along with other Agriculture Officers. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local farmers and community members. The initiative highlighted the importance of millets for nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and farmer livelihoods, promoting healthy food choices and strengthening local agri-based enterprises.

Annual Day Celebration

SACAL proudly celebrated its 26th Annual Day at Dhepanaju in Mohana Block, marking yet another milestone in its journey of service and commitment to the community. The occasion was graced by the presence of all staff members and the General Board, who came together to reflect on the organisation’s achievements and challenges over the years. Members shared their insights and experiences, highlighting the collective spirit that has shaped SACAL’s path of growth and resilience. The gathering also reinforced a shared commitment to uphold the values of dignity, integrity, and inclusiveness, with a collective vision of strengthening SACAL as a vibrant social organization dedicated to uplifting marginalized communities. The event not only celebrated the past but also renewed the resolve to continue working towards a just and empowered society.

RWM Committee Meeting Held in Dambaguda

A meeting of the Rainwater Management (RWM) Committee was conducted in Dambaguda village by the Project Coordinator and Animator. The session aimed to engage the community in monitoring the progress of ongoing water conservation structures, discuss maintenance strategies, and encourage collective ownership. Community members actively participated by sharing feedback and suggestions to strengthen the long-term impact of the project. The meeting emphasized the importance of sustainable rainwater use for agriculture and livelihoods.

Programs

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Mukshyamantri Makka Mission, Mohana

Under the Odisha Mukhyamantri Makka Mission, supported by PD-ATMA in Gajapati district, around 400 farmers will undertake intensive maize cultivation. With facilitation from Taptapani Farmers Producer Company, farmers will receive improved seeds and organic inputs, ensuring better productivity, sustainable practices, and enhanced livelihood opportunities.

Sree Anna Abhiyan

The Sree Anna Abhiyan programme, initiated in 2017 in Gajapati and in 2018 in Ganjam, continues to strengthen millet-based livelihoods and nutrition security. For the year 2025–26, the initiative is set to benefit around 4,700 farmers across both districts, enhancing sustainable agriculture, food diversity, and income opportunities. This milestone reflects the programme’s growing impact in empowering smallholders and promoting climate-resilient farming practices.

CSO Strengthening and gender perspective Nutrition

The CSO strengthening initiative integrates a gender perspective in nutrition, empowering women as key change agents in community development. With the support of Paul Hamlyn Foundation by building the capacities of local organizations, the programme promotes equitable participation, inclusive decision-making, and awareness on balanced diets. Women’s leadership ensures improved household nutrition practices, sustainable farming choices, and better health outcomes. This collective approach not only addresses malnutrition but also fosters gender equity, resilience, and stronger community institutions for lasting social transformation.

Research and Documentation for GIAHS

With support from the M.S. Swaminathan Foundation, Jeypore, a research and documentation initiative has been launched to prepare a proposal for the recognition of Mahendra Giri as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS). The process involves collecting baseline information, conducting stakeholder consultations, organizing focus group discussions, and engaging directly with local communities. This participatory approach will highlight the region’s unique agro-biodiversity, traditional practices, and cultural heritage, strengthening its case for global recognition and sustainable conservation.

Our Impact

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