Purnabha Dasgupta holds a PhD in Agriculture and Rural Development from the University of Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute. He is the Program Director at PRASARI. Dr. Dasgupta is trying to establish an alternative market information ecosystem for marginal and excluded poor farming families. He has authored several scholarly articles, mentored new social entrepreneurs and development researchers. and collaborated with a number of national and international organizations, including the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, Shaffield Hallam University, the University of California at Davis, the British Geological Survey, the UK-India Water Centre, the National Institute of Hydrology, and the Centre for World Solidarity. As an action researcher Dr. Dasgupta's interests include climate-adaptive smart initiatives in freshwater and brackish fisheries, disaster preparedness of the marginalized communities, and sustainable farming and food systems. 

IVLP Impact Award Project: Improved Market Ecosystem for Marginal Freshwater Fisheries

This project strengthened a network of small and marginal fish farmers by providing them with necessary information about climate risks. Eighteen trainings were organized where 372 fish farmers received training on weather forecasting, advanced cultivation techniques, aquatic biodiversity conservation techniques, post-harvest management processes,  credit linkages and marketing channels.

 

"Small farmers were missing the network and technical expertise to deal [with] climate & market challenges they face and lost their interest in fishery. This endeavor…brought a unique design thinking and approach that will benefit the fish farmers." -Project Participant

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Purnabha participated in the IVLP Project Agricultural Marketing Information Systems, organized by the U.S. Department of State and Cultural Vistas in partnership with Iowa International Center, World Affairs Council of St. Louis, Global Ties KC, Georgia Council for International Visitors, and the Vermont Council on World Affairs.

Purnabha's exchange experience led to the development of his IVLP Impact Award Project: "I am able to communicate with people from all over the globe and participate in programs related to climate change and agricultural system adaptations to climate change. The knowledge I've gained is molding my thinking and making me a better practitioner in the field."

U.S. Communities Visited Virtually

Washington, DC; Atlanta, GA; Des Moines, IA; St. Louis, MO; Kansas City, MO; Burlington, VT

Country: India

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