Ecotourism Development in Govind Landscape
SELF HELP conducted UEM-GAEM program facilitating Secure Himalaya in achieving its objectives of Developing a Unique Ecotourism Model for Generating Alternative Livelihoods in Govind Landscape (Uttarakhand)Similar in scope to the Gangotri model, the project led to registration of more than 62 homestays and over 10 lakhs in business earnings. Youth were trained in eco-tourism skills, and local biodiversity hotspots were documented and promoted for sustainable visitation. Under the initiative Green Homestay Guidelines were also developed to further the efforts in sustainable tourism and biodiversity conservation.
Ecotourism Development in Gangotri Landscape
This project created an eco-tourism network by training local youth and women in homestay management, trekking, bird-watching, and other ecotourism/biodiversity aligned services. The project was carried out in 2 phases. Registration of 50 homestays and green skill development contributed to increased income for the local population. Exposure visits and marketing material helped integrate conservation with community-led tourism. SELF HELP conducted UEM-GAEM program facilitating Secure Himalaya in achieving its objectives of Developing a Unique Ecotourism Model for Generating Alternative Livelihoods in Gangotri Landscape (Uttarakhand).
Enhancement of Capacity of the Key Stakeholders on Traditional Art/Craft and Local Architecture (Gangotri Landscape)
The first of our UNDP supported programs aimed to revitalize traditional artisan skills and architecture in Uttarkashi district’s Dunda and Bhatwari blocks. More than 130 households were mobilized, a Off Farm Producer’s Organization (OFPO) was registered, under the name Gangotri Secure Bahuudeshiya Swayat Sahakarita and artisanal products were marketed under the brand “Budera Himalayan Craft.” A Buyer-Seller meet and national-level exhibition held in Uttarkashi generated over ₹9 lakh in collective artisan income.
The second phase of the program was aimed at development of institutions and skill strengthening in Uttarkashi. The project trained artisans in quality control and diversified product design. It improved cooperative management through capacity-building sessions and developed a dedicated marketing platform . The OFPO received ₹5 lakh as working capital, and members earned accolades from the Chief Minister and GI Expo India. The success of the OFPO also saw increased membership from more than 18 villages in the project area. The OFPO has established an outlet in Bhatwari Market, on route to Gangotri Dham.
Evaluation of Hans Jaldhara Project (2024-25)
Conducted for AFC India Ltd. and The Hans Foundation project evaluated water schemes across 20 villages in Tehri and Pauri. It covered a range of schemes like gravity, solar pumping, and tube well models, analyzing implementation efficiency across three village categories (A, B, C). Findings informed improvements in water accessibility and scheme effectiveness in the impact area.
Short-Term Impact Programs
Rapid Assessment of Zoonoses (Uttarkashi)
After the severe effects of the This study evaluated awareness and vulnerability to zoonotic diseases in Uttarkashi by surveying 119 community members, 74 frontline workers, and 27 government officials. The compiled report contributed to local health planning efforts and disease prevention awareness.
COVID-19 Medical Kit Bags via Women’s Groups (Uttarkashi)
Supported by UNDP’s Rapid Financing Facility Initiative, this resourceful short-term program engaged local women in stitching 5,500 cotton bags using recycled cloth for distribution of home isolation kits. It promoted rural-urban synergy and generated income for community women (each earning ₹1200–2000 over 15 days), reinforcing livelihood resilience during the pandemic.
Other Initiatives
Solar Light Distribution: Fifteen solar lights were distributed to homestays in Gangotri landscape, where frequent power cuts disrupt tourism.
Stationary Kits Distribution: In July 2024, 82 students in Devaldhar, Tehri, were provided with school materials through an annual educational outreach program supported by community volunteers.