Agriculture in India continues to be a powerful engine for rural prosperity, economic growth and social transformation. The sector is also the largest employment provider with over 60% population directly dependent on it for its livelihood and sustenance.

Indian agriculture has however, been undergoing a rapid transformation since the onset of economic reforms during early nineties and also by the emergence of WTO regime. On one hand we have the global opportunities knocking our doors and on the other hand we have world's one fourth hungry to feed. Our rural sector is beset with a number of daunting challenges such as abject poverty, illiteracy and poor status of health, nutrition, sanitation, safe drinking water, mother & child care, roads, communication, infrastructure and income generating measures.

There is now a growing realization in Government for redefining its role and encouraging public private partnership, particularly involving NGOs in the development process. The voluntary sector in India has also risen to the challenge and is playing a dominant role in the development of rural India by effectively partnering with Government and the people and in implementing various development initiatives. But in the changing scenario and fiercely demanding environment the voluntary sector will have to be more target and process oriented.

To respond to the needs, CARD has been playing a pro-active role in the field of agriculture and rural development, since its inception in the year 2000; and is making a small difference in rural livelihood in its own way. I am indebted to all those who have extended their whole hearted support in realizing our objectives and converting a noble idea into a concept and finally into an institution.

We still have to go a long way in addressing the needs of rural India and it is my pleasure to invite you all to join hands in this mission to bring hopes to our millions of rural poor.