About us
Who We Are?
UGAM, a non-governmental organization rooted in the Hingoli district of the Marathwada region, stands as a beacon for environmental and agricultural sustainability. Committed to Natural Resource Management, UGAM spearheads programs encompassing watershed development, biodiversity promotion, and sustainable agriculture across five Blocks in Hingoli district and two in Washim district.
Embracing an Integrated Rural Development approach, UGAM serves as a catalyst for farm and non-farm-based livelihood opportunities. Notably, the organization channels efforts into empowering rural women through innovative initiatives in microfinance and entrepreneurship.
Guided by the principles of Sustainable Development, UGAM’s vision harmonizes with the United Nations’ Agenda 21 from the Earth Summit. This framework underscores the critical importance of resource conservation for balanced development, ensuring that present needs are met without jeopardizing the prospects of future generations.
In alignment with the global commitment to Sustainable Development, UGAM actively contributes to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From poverty alleviation and zero hunger to gender equality and responsible consumption, UGAM’s multifaceted initiatives resonate with the comprehensive agenda set forth by the United Nations, echoing a steadfast dedication to fostering positive change and leaving a lasting impact on the community and the environment.
Vision
Creation of a socially just environment based on equality, wherein every individual acts as a responsible citizen.
Mission
- Facilitating the socio-economic upliftment of vulnerable sections of society by ensuring access to rights and opportunities, empowering them in the process
- Enabling natural resource management processes to conserve ecosystems and sustain biodiversity.
- Strengthening grassroots initiatives for sustainable development by promoting contextually appropriate farm-based and non-farm-based livelihood practices.
- Promoting rural women entrepreneurship development through microfinance.
Our Partners
Partnership is the key to our successes. We are indebted to each one of the organisations that support our activities and help us deliver quality development programmes. Together we secure positive changes and improve quality of life in vulnerable communities in Marathwada region.
Our Organization
Board Of Directors
About President
Mr. Jayaji Purbhaji Paikrao, also known as Jalyodha, was born on January 15, 1956, in Kanjara, Hingoli district. His educational journey began in Nanded, where he completed his primary schooling. Later, he pursued MASW (Master of Arts in Social Work) with a specialization in Urban and Rural Community Development at Tata Social Sciences Institute, Mumbai, graduating in 1981. Following this, he gained valuable experience in various social organizations before establishing the Ugam Rural Development Institute near Umra village in Kalamnuri taluka of Hingoli district in 1992.
Focused on addressing the persistent drought shadowing Hingoli district and its consequent low human development index, Ugam under Mr. Jayaji’s leadership embarked on initiatives aimed at fostering a sustainable society through livelihood creation. The organization’s endeavors encompass drought prevention, livelihood promotion, biodiversity conservation, organic farming, water conservation, and women’s empowerment. They also extend support to impoverished families through housing repairs, toilet construction, crop seed distribution, and providing livelihood opportunities for women through skill development programs.
Mr. Jayaji’s contributions extend beyond Ugam as he has served as an expert on various district committees, including Jalyukta Shivar, District Resource Group, Seasonal School Hostel, Rural Development Subject Committee, Marathwada Legal Board, and as the District Coordinator of the NAAM Foundation. In recognition of his tireless efforts in uplifting underprivileged communities and providing them with sustainable livelihoods, he was honored with the ‘Sant Kabir Hingoliratna Award’ on August 14, 2015. Additionally, he received the ‘Mohan Bhalerao Award’ from the Nanded Medical Foundation for his exceptional service.
