Project Title: Baseline Study in West Bengal for Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs)
Project Location: West Bengal (Districts: Hooghly, Bankura, Purulia, Nadia, Kalimpong)
Issuing Organization: Environment Conservation Society (SwitchON Foundation)
RFP Issuance Date: 12th February 2025
Proposal Submission Deadline: 3rd March 2025 12:00 Noon
1. Introduction:
Environment Conservation Society (SwitchON Foundation) invites proposals from qualified research agencies to conduct a baseline study in the districts of Hooghly, Bankura, Purulia, Nadia, and Kalimpong in West Bengal. The primary objective is to assess the current scenario of the Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs) and gather data to effectively guide project interventions. Please note that the scope of work is limited solely to data collection and analysis.
2. Objectives of the Baseline Study:
- Collect baseline data on agriculture, livelihood, and the organizational capacity of each FPO.
- Conduct an Organizational Capacity Assessment Tool (OCAT) for all six FPOs.
- Survey 600 farmers from 6 FPOs (100 each) to capture socio-economic, agricultural, and gender-specific data.
- Analyze the role of gender in agricultural practices, decision-making, and access to resources.
3. Scope of Work:
- Conduct field surveys and data collection in the target districts.
- Develop data collection tools and questionnaires in consultation with the Environment Conservation Society (SwitchON Foundation).
- Perform Organizational Capacity Assessment Tool (OCAT) for all identified FPOs.
- Submit the raw data and analysis.
Study Areas:
- Agricultural practices and cropping patterns.
- Livelihood and income sources.
- Organizational capacity and operational efficiency of FPOs.
- Gender roles, participation, and challenges in agriculture and within FPO structures.
4. Methodology
A. Research Design
- Employ a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews.
- Incorporate focus group discussions (FGDs) specifically for female farmers and women leaders within FPOs.
B. Data Collection Tools
- Structured Questionnaires:
Separate modules to capture:- General socio-economic data
- Agricultural practices (crop types, area, farming techniques)
- Gender-specific questions such as:
- Role of women in decision-making
- Access to agricultural resources
- Participation in FPO activities
- Challenges faced by female farmers
- Organizational Capacity Assessment (OCAT):
Evaluate each FPO’s internal structure with added questions on gender diversity and inclusion policies.
C. Sampling
- FPO Coverage:
Six FPOs selected based on predetermined criteria (e.g., geographic location, performance, and diversity). - Farmer Sample:
Random sampling of 100 farmers per FPO, totaling 600 farmers, ensuring that gender-disaggregated data is collected.
5. Selection Criteria:
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in research and baseline studies.
- Demonstrated experience working with farmers and agricultural projects.
- Local presence in West Bengal and proficiency in Bangla.
- Proven track record with organizational profile and examples of previous work.
- Ability to provide all raw data and SPSS data.
- Capacity to conduct OCAT with FPOs.
6. Proposal Submission Requirements:
- Organizational profile and relevant experience.
- Examples of previous similar work.
- Detailed methodology and approach for the baseline study.
- Proposed timeline and work plan.
- Financial proposal including detailed costs.
7. Evaluation Criteria:
Proposals will be evaluated based on:
- Relevant experience and expertise
- Methodology and approach
- Local presence and language proficiency
- Cost-effectiveness of the proposal
8. Submission Guidelines:
Interested agencies should submit their proposals by 3rd March 2025 via email to pc@switchon.org.in
9. Timeline:
- RFP Start Date: 12th February 2025
- Proposal Submission Deadline: 3rd March 2025
- Expected Start of Baseline Study: [To be defined]
- Completion of Study: [To be defined]
We look forward to receiving your proposals and potentially collaborating to bring impactful change to the farmers of West Bengal.
Contact Information: Environment Conservation Society (SwitchON Foundation)
Email Address: pc@switchon.org.in
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