
AAK Promoting Sustainable Sal Seed Collection in Simdega, Jharkhand: Strengthening Women-Led Enterprises through Training Programs
ISB (Indian School of Business), Sweden-based oil manufacturer company AAK and Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS) collaborated to organize three Sal seeds collection training sessions in Kolebira, Bano, and Jaldega from May 10 to 12, 2023. These sessions aimed to equip nearly 100 women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Producer Groups (PGs) with the necessary skills for Sal seeds collection in Simdega. Representatives from AAK India Pvt Ltd. shared their best practices and experiences from their work in other regions.
About the Event
The trainers’ expressed satisfaction with the existing practices of Sal seed gatherers in Simdega. However, to ensure the sustainability of the Sal seeds collection, certain hygiene factors were collectively decided upon. These factors are as follows:
No forest fires: Women were urged not to set fires in the forest during the collection process.
Selective picking: Only mature Sal seeds were to be collected by hand, while smaller, immature ones were to be left behind.
Elimination of child labour: Strict adherence to the prohibition of child labour during the collection process.
Flatbed preparation: Collected seeds should be arranged in a flatbed formation on a dry open space in the homestead instead of forming heaps.
Controlled burning: Setting low-intensity fires to burn only the wings and outer layer of the seed coat, preventing over-burning, and blackening of seeds.
Proper seed breaking: Sal seeds should be gently broken into four parts using light stones, avoiding over-grinding.
Sun drying and moisture prevention: Sun drying the seeds and ensuring they remain dry, avoiding contact with water.
Adequate storage: Store the seeds in a cool, dry place to prevent infestation.
Preferred packing method: Packing the seeds in PP (polypropylene)bags to ensure proper storage and transportation.
No adulteration: Strict measures to prevent adulteration with stones, pebbles, dirt, or other foreign substances.