Call for Consultant to prepare “Handbook on resources for livelihood development in Marathwada” in Latur District’

Project Overview:

Swayam Shikshan Prayog (SSP), supported by Axis Bank Foundation, is conducting a comprehensive livelihood enhancement project aimed at improving the quality of life for 22,000 rural households across 220 villages in the Ausa, Nilanga, and Deoni Blocks of Latur District. Over a span of 4 years, this initiative aims to uplift rural communities by enhancing their livelihoods.

Scope of Work:

We are seeking an experienced consultant or agency to conduct a study for preparing “Handbook on resources for livelihood development in Marathwada” in Latur District.’

The handbook will provide details of all resources that can be accessed for livelihood activities in Marathwada, in terms of financial, material, capability building, business linkages etc, and from various agencies including government, private, NGOs and international donors, etc. would be published by SSP. This handbook would be beneficial for farmers, entrepreneurs, practitioners and other stakeholders for better resource mobilisation and effective livelihood programme execution.

The study will involve the following:

Review and Analysis:

• Review existing livelihood schemes, resources, and initiatives in Marathwada across government, NGO, CSR, and private sectors.
• Analyse availability, access gaps, and convergence opportunities to inform resource mapping and handbook development.

Primary and Secondary Research:

• Consultations with key stakeholders including government officials, financial institutions, NGOs, CSR representatives, and community institutions
• Field-level interactions with farmers, entrepreneurs, SHGs, FPOs, and practitioners to understand access, usability, and challenges related to livelihood resources
• Validation of resource information through interviews, meetings, and discussions
• Review of policy documents, government notifications, scheme guidelines, reports, and databases
• Analysis of existing studies, handbooks, programme documents, and best practice reports related to livelihoods and entrepreneurship
• Compilation of information from official websites, publications, and knowledge platforms

Outcome and Impact:

Outcomes

• A comprehensive and user-friendly Handbook on Resources for Livelihood Development in Marathwada
• Improved availability and accessibility of information on financial, technical, and institutional livelihood support
• Enhanced capacity of practitioners, farmers, entrepreneurs, SHGs, and institutions to identify and mobilise appropriate resources
• Strengthened coordination and convergence among government, NGOs, CSR, private sector, and donor agencies

Impact

• More effective planning and implementation of livelihood programmes in Marathwada
• Increased uptake of livelihood schemes, services, and market opportunities
• Improved sustainability and scalability of farm and non-farm livelihood initiatives
• Contribution to inclusive economic growth, women’s entrepreneurship, and resilient livelihoods in the region

Consultant Responsibilities:

Research and Analysis:

• Review of relevant policies, schemes, programmes, and guidelines related to livelihood development at Central, State, and district levels
• Analysis of existing livelihood models, value chains, and enterprise promotion initiatives supported by government, NGOs, CSR programmes, and private sector actors
• Assessment of available financial, material, capacity-building, and market linkage resources for farmers, women entrepreneurs, youth, SHGs, and FPOs
• Identification of gaps, overlaps, challenges, and opportunities for convergence among various stakeholders and institutions
• District-wise analysis of access mechanisms, eligibility criteria, and operational processes for key livelihood resources

Reporting and Recommendations:

• Preparation of periodic progress updates and a comprehensive final report summarising key findings from research, analysis, and resource mapping
• Presentation of district-wise and sector-wise insights on available livelihood resources, access gaps, and operational challenges
• Development of practical, implementable recommendations to improve resource mobilisation, convergence, and utilisation at field and programme levels
• Suggestions for strengthening coordination mechanisms among government departments, NGOs, financial institutions, CSR actors, and donors
• Recommendations to enhance inclusion, sustainability, and scalability of livelihood interventions, with a focus on women, youth, and marginalised communities

Submission Requirements:

Interested consultants/agencies should submit a detailed proposal that includes:

• Company/Consultant Profile: Background, expertise, and experience in conducting similar studies, especially in rural development.
• Research Plan: Detailed approach, methodology, and timeline for the study.
• Cost Proposal: Detailed budget including fees, research costs, and any other expenses.
• References: Case studies or references from previous projects involving similar work.

Selection Criteria:

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following:

• Expertise: Experience in livelihood development studies and working with rural communities.
• Research Plan Quality: Clear and effective research methodology and approach.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Competitive pricing while maintaining quality.
• Implementation Capability: Ability to deliver within project timelines and provide in-depth analysis.