Maldhari Vikas sangthan

The word “Maldhari” means “livestock guardian”. It is a generic term and represents all the pastoral tribes of Gujarat irrespective of their location and religion. It is not a caste. It comes from ‘mal’ meaning livestock as asset or wealth and ‘dhari’ - the one who owns the livestock. Earlier known as “Ter Tansaliya” (meaning…..TER means 13,  TASALI is a commonly use utensil for Milk    -----), Maldharis are now counted only among 5-6 samudays (communities) accounting a population of only 10%.

Living with the livestock, Maldharis have developed and adopted numerous indigenous methods of livelihood. They possess immense characteristic of togetherness and unity. To take this positive energy of oneness and togetherness towards development and to keep it alive, “Maldhari Vikas Sangathan” came into being.

Also, in the recent past, the socioeconomic condition of the ‘Maldharis’ has undergone a significant change. ‘Maldharis’ have come under tremendous pressure due to variety of circumstances that include environmental degradation, natural disasters like drought, unsound developmental schemes and policies by the government. Once living a luxurious life with their livestock, has today become a great challenge and struggle. In order to bring back the honor and glory of way of life called pastoralism, “Maldhari Vikas Sangathan” was established.

1. To form a Maldhari sangathan (Livestock keepers Federation) at Block level.
2. To develop and ensure access and control upon common property resources of the communities dependent on it especially Maldharis
3. To advocate for better policies and systems for the pastoralists while migrating.
4. To sustain pastoralism and strengthen role of women in decision making processes.