14

Sabras: Empowering Salt Workers in Gujaratindiagovernance.gov.in/files/gkc_oneworld_sabras.pdf · the salt producer’s community and the urgent need for their economic empowerment

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

  • [email protected]

    July 2011

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public GrievancesMinistry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of Indiahttp://indiagovernance.gov.in/

    Researched and Documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering Salt Workers in Gujarat

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    Table of Contents Executive Summary ................................

    Background ................................

    Objective ................................................................

    Working Design ................................

    Ownership of SABRAS................................

    Company composition

    SABRAS Supply chain ................................

    Company finances ................................

    Methodology ................................

    Key Stakeholders................................

    Lessons learned ................................

    Creating an empowered community

    Establishing a brand through institutional partnerships

    Utilizing environment friendly technology

    Developing a successful business model

    References ................................

    Appendix A Interview Questionnaire

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ny composition ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................

    ................................................................................................................................

    Creating an empowered community ................................................................

    Establishing a brand through institutional partnerships ................................

    Utilizing environment friendly technology ................................................................

    Developing a successful business model ................................................................

    ................................................................................................................................

    Interview Questionnaire ................................................................

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    1

    .................................................................. 2

    ................................................ 3

    ..................................................... 4

    ........................................ 4

    ................................................... 4

    ......................................... 5

    .................................................... 6

    .......................................................... 7

    .............................................. 7

    ............................................................. 7

    ......................................... 8

    ........................................................... 8

    .......................................................... 8

    ................................................ 9

    ..................................................... 9

    ................................................ 10

    .............................................................. 11

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    Executive SummaryWith an annual export of 2.25 million tonnes, India is among the leading salt producing

    countries in the world.1 Majority of this salt is manufactured in the Little Rann of Kutch salt

    pans of Gujarat. The salt workers, locally known as Agariyas, produce sa

    year in a harsh coastal and desert environment. They are also devoid of basic amenities such as

    drinking water, schools and hospitals. Furthermore, these salt workers are paid low wages,

    suffer heavy exploitation through traditional m

    percent of the total salt value in the market.

    To improve the quality of life of Agariyas

    Saline Area Vitalization Enterprise Ltd. (SAVE) a techno

    Gujarat has established a social enterprise called SABRAS Processing and Marketing Pvt. Ltd.

    SABRAS provides procurement, processing and marketing services to small scale salt workers

    in Little Rann of Kutch.

    In SABRAS business model, salt workers are shareholders of the company and produce salt, the

    management team ensures proper access to market, credit and techn

    organised such that SABRAS directly buys salt from the workers at higher than market price,

    and then sells it in bulk to processors and network of distributors.

    Additionally, to improve productivity, SABRAS provides environment frie

    effective solar water pumps to reduce the dependence of salt workers on inefficient diesel

    pumps for salt production.

    This document aims to highlight the working design and impact of the SABRAS model thus

    far. It also touches upon the compa

    model like SABRAS should be replicated elsewhere.

    1 Bay of Bengal Programme, 2011-07-19, http://www.bobpigo.org/bbn/march_06/Page%2037

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    Summary With an annual export of 2.25 million tonnes, India is among the leading salt producing

    Majority of this salt is manufactured in the Little Rann of Kutch salt

    pans of Gujarat. The salt workers, locally known as Agariyas, produce sa

    year in a harsh coastal and desert environment. They are also devoid of basic amenities such as

    drinking water, schools and hospitals. Furthermore, these salt workers are paid low wages,

    suffer heavy exploitation through traditional middlemen and traders, and earn only 1 to 8

    percent of the total salt value in the market.

    To improve the quality of life of Agariyas and achieve greater efficiency in salt production,

    Saline Area Vitalization Enterprise Ltd. (SAVE) a techno-marketing service organisation in

    Gujarat has established a social enterprise called SABRAS Processing and Marketing Pvt. Ltd.

    urement, processing and marketing services to small scale salt workers

    In SABRAS business model, salt workers are shareholders of the company and produce salt, the

    management team ensures proper access to market, credit and technology. The process is

    organised such that SABRAS directly buys salt from the workers at higher than market price,

    and then sells it in bulk to processors and network of distributors.

    Additionally, to improve productivity, SABRAS provides environment frie

    effective solar water pumps to reduce the dependence of salt workers on inefficient diesel

    This document aims to highlight the working design and impact of the SABRAS model thus

    far. It also touches upon the companys future plans with the aim that a scalable business

    model like SABRAS should be replicated elsewhere.

    http://www.bobpigo.org/bbn/march_06/Page%2037-40.pdf

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    2

    With an annual export of 2.25 million tonnes, India is among the leading salt producing

    Majority of this salt is manufactured in the Little Rann of Kutch salt

    pans of Gujarat. The salt workers, locally known as Agariyas, produce salt for eight months a

    year in a harsh coastal and desert environment. They are also devoid of basic amenities such as

    drinking water, schools and hospitals. Furthermore, these salt workers are paid low wages,

    iddlemen and traders, and earn only 1 to 8

    and achieve greater efficiency in salt production,

    marketing service organisation in

    Gujarat has established a social enterprise called SABRAS Processing and Marketing Pvt. Ltd.

    urement, processing and marketing services to small scale salt workers

    In SABRAS business model, salt workers are shareholders of the company and produce salt, the

    ology. The process is

    organised such that SABRAS directly buys salt from the workers at higher than market price,

    Additionally, to improve productivity, SABRAS provides environment friendly and cost

    effective solar water pumps to reduce the dependence of salt workers on inefficient diesel

    This document aims to highlight the working design and impact of the SABRAS model thus

    nys future plans with the aim that a scalable business

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    Background India is currently the third largest salt

    salt in the country is produced in Gujar

    Agariyas, are engaged in salt production activity in Little Rann of Kutch (LRK).

    Agariyas work in highly exploitative and

    subhuman conditions; long term exposure

    to the salt and hostile desert environment

    makes them extremely susceptible to

    various health hazards. Conditions are

    further worsened by their lack of access to

    basic amenities like drinking water, shelter,

    protective clothing, education and

    healthcare.

    Economically also Agariyas do not receive

    their fair share of profits. During the salt

    2 Bay of Bengal Programme, 2011-07-19, http://www.bobpigo.org/bbn/march_06/Page%2037

    Figure 2: Salt Workers in Kutch

    Source: SABRAS

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    India is currently the third largest salt producing country in the world, and 70 percent of the

    salt in the country is produced in Gujarat.2 About 70,000 small salt producers, locally known as

    Agariyas, are engaged in salt production activity in Little Rann of Kutch (LRK).

    work in highly exploitative and

    subhuman conditions; long term exposure

    to the salt and hostile desert environment

    makes them extremely susceptible to

    various health hazards. Conditions are

    further worsened by their lack of access to

    drinking water, shelter,

    protective clothing, education and

    Economically also Agariyas do not receive

    their fair share of profits. During the salt

    production season from October to April,

    Agariyas borrow money from traders and

    money lenders to operate and maintain the

    diesel pumps used in the salt production

    process. They repay the loan with the salt

    they produce. Due to this, reason, the

    Agariyas are left with a very small amount

    of salt, which they sell to the traders at a

    very low price of around

    ton. This salt goes on to be sold at

    per metric ton in the market. The salt

    workers get only 1-8 percent of the total

    profit made in the salt supply chain.

    http://www.bobpigo.org/bbn/march_06/Page%2037-40.pdf

    Figure 1: Little Rann of Kutch

    Source: Google Images

    LR K

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    3

    producing country in the world, and 70 percent of the

    small salt producers, locally known as

    Agariyas, are engaged in salt production activity in Little Rann of Kutch (LRK).

    production season from October to April,

    Agariyas borrow money from traders and

    o operate and maintain the

    diesel pumps used in the salt production

    process. They repay the loan with the salt

    they produce. Due to this, reason, the

    Agariyas are left with a very small amount

    of salt, which they sell to the traders at a

    around Rs.80 per metric

    his salt goes on to be sold at Rs. 7,200

    per metric ton in the market. The salt

    8 percent of the total

    K

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    While the government agencies and NGOs have helped the salt workers, these efforts have

    largely concentrated on providing basic amenities, and have failed to address the economic

    hardships faced by them.

    Saline Area Vitalization Enterprise Ltd. (SAVE), an Ahmedabad based technical and marketing

    service provider, conducted a study on the condition

    districts of Gujarat in 2005. The study highlighted the extent of the economic problems faced by

    the salt producers community and the urgent need for their economic empowerment. As a

    response to the findings of the study, SAVE created SABRAS Processing and Marketing Pvt.

    Ltd. (SPML), in joint ownership with salt workers, in 2007, to provide technical and marketing

    assistance to the salt workers so that they make profits that are proportionate to the hard work

    and labour that they put in.

    SABRAS currently operates in ten villages of Halvad and Dhrangadhara talukas of

    Surendranagar district in Gujarat.

    of Rs. 120 per metric ton, processes the salt and then sells it to various salt distributors.

    SABRAS also provides technological assistance to the Agariyas by facilitating replacement of

    the diesel pumps with innovative solar pumps, which increases the efficiency and productivity

    of the salt workers.

    Objective SABRAS seeks to correct the exploitative market practices in Indias salt industry. It aims to:

    improve the quality of life of the Aga

    increase Agariyas access to institutional credit, markets and technology

    offer fair trade prices in the procurement of salt and create an access to distribution

    channels.

    Working Design In the SABRAS model, Agariyas

    management and technical expertise and experience to provide the Agariyas with access to

    market, credit and technology

    OWNERSHIP OF SABRAS

    SABRAS was established as a producers owned, producers

    controlled and professionally managed for

    The company at present has an equity of Rs. 5.5 lakhs, of

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    While the government agencies and NGOs have helped the salt workers, these efforts have

    ly concentrated on providing basic amenities, and have failed to address the economic

    Saline Area Vitalization Enterprise Ltd. (SAVE), an Ahmedabad based technical and marketing

    service provider, conducted a study on the condition of the salt producer community in several

    districts of Gujarat in 2005. The study highlighted the extent of the economic problems faced by

    the salt producers community and the urgent need for their economic empowerment. As a

    he study, SAVE created SABRAS Processing and Marketing Pvt.

    Ltd. (SPML), in joint ownership with salt workers, in 2007, to provide technical and marketing

    assistance to the salt workers so that they make profits that are proportionate to the hard work

    operates in ten villages of Halvad and Dhrangadhara talukas of

    Surendranagar district in Gujarat. It procures salt from the salt workers at an approximate price

    of Rs. 120 per metric ton, processes the salt and then sells it to various salt distributors.

    SABRAS also provides technological assistance to the Agariyas by facilitating replacement of

    esel pumps with innovative solar pumps, which increases the efficiency and productivity

    SABRAS seeks to correct the exploitative market practices in Indias salt industry. It aims to:

    improve the quality of life of the Agariyas

    increase Agariyas access to institutional credit, markets and technology

    offer fair trade prices in the procurement of salt and create an access to distribution

    In the SABRAS model, Agariyas use their skills to provide the salt while SAVE uses its

    management and technical expertise and experience to provide the Agariyas with access to

    market, credit and technology.

    SABRAS

    SABRAS was established as a producers owned, producers

    controlled and professionally managed for-profit company.

    The company at present has an equity of Rs. 5.5 lakhs, of 14%38%

    Shareholders of SABRAS

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    4

    While the government agencies and NGOs have helped the salt workers, these efforts have

    ly concentrated on providing basic amenities, and have failed to address the economic

    Saline Area Vitalization Enterprise Ltd. (SAVE), an Ahmedabad based technical and marketing

    of the salt producer community in several

    districts of Gujarat in 2005. The study highlighted the extent of the economic problems faced by

    the salt producers community and the urgent need for their economic empowerment. As a

    he study, SAVE created SABRAS Processing and Marketing Pvt.

    Ltd. (SPML), in joint ownership with salt workers, in 2007, to provide technical and marketing

    assistance to the salt workers so that they make profits that are proportionate to the hard work

    operates in ten villages of Halvad and Dhrangadhara talukas of

    It procures salt from the salt workers at an approximate price

    of Rs. 120 per metric ton, processes the salt and then sells it to various salt distributors.

    SABRAS also provides technological assistance to the Agariyas by facilitating replacement of

    esel pumps with innovative solar pumps, which increases the efficiency and productivity

    SABRAS seeks to correct the exploitative market practices in Indias salt industry. It aims to:

    increase Agariyas access to institutional credit, markets and technology

    offer fair trade prices in the procurement of salt and create an access to distribution

    use their skills to provide the salt while SAVE uses its

    management and technical expertise and experience to provide the Agariyas with access to

    14%

    48%

    Shareholders of SABRAS

    Agariyas Share

    Promoter's

    (SAVE) Share

    Private Equity

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    which 14 percent is held by 28 small salt producers, 48 percent by SAVE while the rem

    percent is held as private equity. By making salt workers shareholders of the company,

    SABRAS is providing them with the opportunity to become owners and increase their profits.

    The salt workers paid for their share in the form of salt. As shareh

    the risks and profits that the company makes.

    COMPANY COMPOSITION

    The Board of Directors includes two representatives of the agariyas union .i.e. the

    Hitrakshak Samuh and one representative of SAVE ltd. The board col

    prices, quality of the salt, profit sharing and technical improvements.

    SAL

    Figure 3: Traditional

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    which 14 percent is held by 28 small salt producers, 48 percent by SAVE while the rem

    percent is held as private equity. By making salt workers shareholders of the company,

    SABRAS is providing them with the opportunity to become owners and increase their profits.

    The salt workers paid for their share in the form of salt. As shareholders, the salt workers share

    the risks and profits that the company makes.

    The Board of Directors includes two representatives of the agariyas union .i.e. the

    and one representative of SAVE ltd. The board collectively takes decision on

    prices, quality of the salt, profit sharing and technical improvements.

    Figure 4: SABRAS Intervention Model

    Figure 3: Traditional Salt Supply Chain

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    5

    which 14 percent is held by 28 small salt producers, 48 percent by SAVE while the remaining 38

    percent is held as private equity. By making salt workers shareholders of the company,

    SABRAS is providing them with the opportunity to become owners and increase their profits.

    olders, the salt workers share

    The Board of Directors includes two representatives of the agariyas union .i.e. the Agariya

    lectively takes decision on

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    SABRAS SUPPLY CHAIN

    To facilitate better access to

    undertakes the following activities:

    1) Procuring, transporting, processing,

    packaging and marketing the salt produced

    by the salt workers: SABRAS directly

    procures salt from the salt workers at a price.

    56 percent higher than the price offered by

    the local traders. The salt is then sold in bulk

    to processors and wholesalers, who further

    supply it for industrial usage or for sale

    through retail.

    2) Provision of technical inputs to the salt workers

    the salt workers in enhancing overall productivity. The salt workers are provided enhanced

    access to credit for maintaining their diesel pumps, and are al

    traditional pumps with efficient solar pumps. SABRAS has already begun testing these

    solar pumps on a pilot basis.

    At present, there are two solar pumps being used by the salt workers with the help of

    National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development

    investment for solar pumps is high, in the long term these turn out to be more cost efficient

    than the diesel pumps. Salt workers at present, can rent these solar water pumps from

    SABRAS. Gradually over a period of five to seven years they are expected to pay periodic

    payments either in the form of salt or cash for these pumps, after the completion of this

    payment the solar water pumps will belong to the salt workers. The maintenance of the

    solar pumps is handled by the professionals of SABRAS who provide inputs to the salt

    workers on efficiently using the pumps and give them technical support.

    3) Other Activities: SABRAS has also established mobile shelters for the salt workers and their

    families to stay in the desert during the eight month production season. Salt workers have

    also been provided with multipurpose community shelters for meetings, entertainment etc.

    A Community Resource Centre (CRC) has been set up at village Jogad. The centre is used

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    UPPLY CHAIN

    To facilitate better access to market, SABRAS

    undertakes the following activities:

    Procuring, transporting, processing,

    packaging and marketing the salt produced

    : SABRAS directly

    procures salt from the salt workers at a price.

    56 percent higher than the price offered by

    the local traders. The salt is then sold in bulk

    to processors and wholesalers, who further

    supply it for industrial usage or for sale

    Provision of technical inputs to the salt workers: SABRAS provides technical assistance to

    the salt workers in enhancing overall productivity. The salt workers are provided enhanced

    access to credit for maintaining their diesel pumps, and are also encouraged to replace the

    traditional pumps with efficient solar pumps. SABRAS has already begun testing these

    solar pumps on a pilot basis.

    At present, there are two solar pumps being used by the salt workers with the help of

    ulture and Rural Development (NABARD). Although the initial

    investment for solar pumps is high, in the long term these turn out to be more cost efficient

    than the diesel pumps. Salt workers at present, can rent these solar water pumps from

    ly over a period of five to seven years they are expected to pay periodic

    payments either in the form of salt or cash for these pumps, after the completion of this

    payment the solar water pumps will belong to the salt workers. The maintenance of the

    pumps is handled by the professionals of SABRAS who provide inputs to the salt

    workers on efficiently using the pumps and give them technical support.

    : SABRAS has also established mobile shelters for the salt workers and their

    o stay in the desert during the eight month production season. Salt workers have

    also been provided with multipurpose community shelters for meetings, entertainment etc.

    A Community Resource Centre (CRC) has been set up at village Jogad. The centre is used

    Figure 5: Solar Panels for the Water Pumps

    Source: SABRAS

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    6

    : SABRAS provides technical assistance to

    the salt workers in enhancing overall productivity. The salt workers are provided enhanced

    so encouraged to replace the

    traditional pumps with efficient solar pumps. SABRAS has already begun testing these

    At present, there are two solar pumps being used by the salt workers with the help of

    NABARD). Although the initial

    investment for solar pumps is high, in the long term these turn out to be more cost efficient

    than the diesel pumps. Salt workers at present, can rent these solar water pumps from

    ly over a period of five to seven years they are expected to pay periodic

    payments either in the form of salt or cash for these pumps, after the completion of this

    payment the solar water pumps will belong to the salt workers. The maintenance of the

    pumps is handled by the professionals of SABRAS who provide inputs to the salt

    workers on efficiently using the pumps and give them technical support.

    : SABRAS has also established mobile shelters for the salt workers and their

    o stay in the desert during the eight month production season. Salt workers have

    also been provided with multipurpose community shelters for meetings, entertainment etc.

    A Community Resource Centre (CRC) has been set up at village Jogad. The centre is used

    Figure 5: Solar Panels for the Water Pumps

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    for research, development and training the salt workers to better manage the salt

    production process and their profits.

    COMPANY FINANCES

    SABRAS began with an initial capital of Rs. 100,000 out of which Rs

    the salt workers and 26,000 by SAVE. SABRAS also received a

    US based non profit organization First Light ventures. Currently the companys value is 5.5

    lakhs. NABARD, local banks and the Government o

    production and purchase of solar pumps.

    On an average in every salt production season salt workers produce 600 metric tonnes of salt.

    Out of this total production 400 metric tonnes is used for repayment of credit

    pumps) or as rent for the solar pumps. The remaining 200 metric tonnes is procured at the rate

    of approximately Rs. 120 per metric ton. The salt is finally sold in the market at Rs. 7200 per

    metric ton.

    Methodology Working with the objective of identifying best practices in governance in India for the purpose

    of further replication, the Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) research team conducts

    extensive research to locate initiatives that contribute towards the betterment of public service

    delivery. SABRAS is transforming the livelihood conditions of the salt producing community in

    select districts of Gujarat by committing to fair trade practices, linking salt producers with

    markets and reducing their costs with solar technology. In this ma

    criteria of an innovative, sustainable and replicable initiative.

    Having established the SABRAS model as a best practice, the team then conducted thorough

    secondary research using web sources to gather a detailed understanding of how the initiative

    works and identify its strengths. The next step was to identify the key s

    schedule interviews with them to get a deeper insight into the operation and impact of the

    initiative.

    KEY STAKEHOLDERS

    Saline Area Vitalization Enterprise Ltd. (SAVE)

    particularly to primary producers with limited assets and located along the coast of Gujarat.

    Agariya Hit Rakshak Sangh,

    partner of SABRAS and represents

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    development and training the salt workers to better manage the salt

    production process and their profits.

    SABRAS began with an initial capital of Rs. 100,000 out of which Rs. 74,000 was provided by

    the salt workers and 26,000 by SAVE. SABRAS also received a Rs. 3,330,000

    US based non profit organization First Light ventures. Currently the companys value is 5.5

    lakhs. NABARD, local banks and the Government of Gujarat provide credit linkages for salt

    production and purchase of solar pumps.

    On an average in every salt production season salt workers produce 600 metric tonnes of salt.

    Out of this total production 400 metric tonnes is used for repayment of credit

    pumps) or as rent for the solar pumps. The remaining 200 metric tonnes is procured at the rate

    of approximately Rs. 120 per metric ton. The salt is finally sold in the market at Rs. 7200 per

    tive of identifying best practices in governance in India for the purpose

    of further replication, the Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) research team conducts

    extensive research to locate initiatives that contribute towards the betterment of public service

    delivery. SABRAS is transforming the livelihood conditions of the salt producing community in

    select districts of Gujarat by committing to fair trade practices, linking salt producers with

    markets and reducing their costs with solar technology. In this manner it fits the best practice

    criteria of an innovative, sustainable and replicable initiative.

    Having established the SABRAS model as a best practice, the team then conducted thorough

    secondary research using web sources to gather a detailed understanding of how the initiative

    works and identify its strengths. The next step was to identify the key s

    schedule interviews with them to get a deeper insight into the operation and impact of the

    Saline Area Vitalization Enterprise Ltd. (SAVE) provides enterprise development services

    particularly to primary producers with limited assets and located along the coast of Gujarat.

    a union of salt producers with 4,500 members is a scaling up

    partner of SABRAS and represents the voice of the salt workers.

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    7

    development and training the salt workers to better manage the salt

    . 74,000 was provided by

    Rs. 3,330,000 investment from a

    US based non profit organization First Light ventures. Currently the companys value is 5.5

    f Gujarat provide credit linkages for salt

    On an average in every salt production season salt workers produce 600 metric tonnes of salt.

    Out of this total production 400 metric tonnes is used for repayment of credit (taken for diesel

    pumps) or as rent for the solar pumps. The remaining 200 metric tonnes is procured at the rate

    of approximately Rs. 120 per metric ton. The salt is finally sold in the market at Rs. 7200 per

    tive of identifying best practices in governance in India for the purpose

    of further replication, the Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) research team conducts

    extensive research to locate initiatives that contribute towards the betterment of public service

    delivery. SABRAS is transforming the livelihood conditions of the salt producing community in

    select districts of Gujarat by committing to fair trade practices, linking salt producers with

    nner it fits the best practice

    Having established the SABRAS model as a best practice, the team then conducted thorough

    secondary research using web sources to gather a detailed understanding of how the initiative

    works and identify its strengths. The next step was to identify the key stakeholders and

    schedule interviews with them to get a deeper insight into the operation and impact of the

    provides enterprise development services

    particularly to primary producers with limited assets and located along the coast of Gujarat.

    a union of salt producers with 4,500 members is a scaling up

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    Dasra, a social enterprise incubator,

    assistance.

    Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute,

    provides strategic development and technical consulting advice for salt and by

    Gujarat Livelihood Promotion Company

    provides working capital to groups promoting

    which has entered into a memorandum of understanding(MoU) with SABRAS in 2011 to work

    together for improving the livelihoods of the salt workers.

    National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD)

    bank mandated to support economic activities in rural areas and promote integrated and

    sustainable rural development under its Rural Innovation Fund program, supported SABRAS

    in completing a pilot program for two solar powered water pump

    First Light Ventures, a US based social venture fund, which invested Rs. 3,330,000 in SABRAS

    in 2010.

    Idiom Design and Consulting

    strategy for SABRAS.

    Individuals: Twenty eight salt workers

    Lessons learned

    Creating an empowered community

    SABRAS is empowering the salt workers from just being producers to owning a company and

    participating in the entire supply chain. The salt workers are no longer dependent on the

    traders for selling the salt. Instead, SABRAS, the organisation, procures salt

    prevailing market prices and also provides workers with solar pumps to increase efficiency.

    SABRAS has helped in reducing the reliance of the salt workers on middlemen and also

    increasing their income. It is helping them operate in a cost a

    manner.

    Establishing a brand through institutional partnerships

    SABRAS successfully leverages the institutional partnerships to enhance its business model.

    Strong partnerships with the government and private players are helpin

    brand name, which in turn is strengthening its capacity to assist the salt workers. These

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    Dasra, a social enterprise incubator, supports SABRAS through on-going in

    Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, a part of the Government of India,

    provides strategic development and technical consulting advice for salt and by

    Gujarat Livelihood Promotion Company, a company set up by the Government of Gujarat,

    provides working capital to groups promoting better livelihood options for the rural poor,

    which has entered into a memorandum of understanding(MoU) with SABRAS in 2011 to work

    together for improving the livelihoods of the salt workers.

    National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) an Indian development

    bank mandated to support economic activities in rural areas and promote integrated and

    sustainable rural development under its Rural Innovation Fund program, supported SABRAS

    in completing a pilot program for two solar powered water pumps.

    a US based social venture fund, which invested Rs. 3,330,000 in SABRAS

    Idiom Design and Consulting, a design firm is providing assistance in developing a brand

    Twenty eight salt workers to date have purchased equity in the company.

    Creating an empowered community

    SABRAS is empowering the salt workers from just being producers to owning a company and

    participating in the entire supply chain. The salt workers are no longer dependent on the

    traders for selling the salt. Instead, SABRAS, the organisation, procures salt

    prevailing market prices and also provides workers with solar pumps to increase efficiency.

    SABRAS has helped in reducing the reliance of the salt workers on middlemen and also

    increasing their income. It is helping them operate in a cost and technologically effective

    Establishing a brand through institutional partnerships

    SABRAS successfully leverages the institutional partnerships to enhance its business model.

    Strong partnerships with the government and private players are helping SABRAS build a

    brand name, which in turn is strengthening its capacity to assist the salt workers. These

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    8

    going in-kind technical

    a part of the Government of India,

    provides strategic development and technical consulting advice for salt and by-products.

    , a company set up by the Government of Gujarat,

    better livelihood options for the rural poor,

    which has entered into a memorandum of understanding(MoU) with SABRAS in 2011 to work

    Indian development

    bank mandated to support economic activities in rural areas and promote integrated and

    sustainable rural development under its Rural Innovation Fund program, supported SABRAS

    a US based social venture fund, which invested Rs. 3,330,000 in SABRAS

    , a design firm is providing assistance in developing a brand

    to date have purchased equity in the company.

    SABRAS is empowering the salt workers from just being producers to owning a company and

    participating in the entire supply chain. The salt workers are no longer dependent on the

    traders for selling the salt. Instead, SABRAS, the organisation, procures salt at higher than

    prevailing market prices and also provides workers with solar pumps to increase efficiency.

    SABRAS has helped in reducing the reliance of the salt workers on middlemen and also

    nd technologically effective

    SABRAS successfully leverages the institutional partnerships to enhance its business model.

    g SABRAS build a

    brand name, which in turn is strengthening its capacity to assist the salt workers. These

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    partnerships provide SABRAS with the necessary technical knowhow as well as financial

    support, which otherwise is difficult for individual salt worke

    Utilizing environment friendly technology

    SABRAS is offering an innovative solar technology solution to replace the inefficient and costly

    diesel powered pumps. This technology will not only reduce harmful carbon emissions but also

    drastically reduce production costs in the long run and improve the efficiency of the salt

    production process. In addition to higher revenues, the salt workers now have more time on

    their hand as they are not required to constantly monitor the functioning of the solar pumps,

    like they had to in the case of the diesel pumps.

    Table 1: Cost Comparison Between Diesel and solar water pumps

    Though the short term investment for a solar pump is high (approximately Rs

    long run it is more cost effective. Currently SABRAS has installed two solar pumps. By the end

    of 2011 it aims to set up 25 pumps with financial assistance from banks. SABRAS is working on

    a low cost, solar concentrator technology that c

    restricted to water pumps.

    Developing a successful business model

    SABRAS is successfully accomplishing its business objectives as well as creating a social impact

    on the lives of the salt workers in Little Rann

    improve livelihoods. To date, it has procured 22,000 tons of salt from over 39 salt workers and

    expanded its marketing network from 4 to 13 commercial companies. Initially having faced

    problems of quality, transportation and storage, the company could not meet its economies of

    scale but currently has earned a profit of approximately Rs. 200,000 lakhs. Gradually the

    processes involved are getting streamlined, as SABRAS plans to enter into more partnerships,

    attract investors and develop innovative and efficient technology.

    Pump

    Type

    Life of

    Pump

    Cost

    Diesel 10 years 25,000

    Solar 15 years 2,00,000

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    partnerships provide SABRAS with the necessary technical knowhow as well as financial

    support, which otherwise is difficult for individual salt workers.

    Utilizing environment friendly technology

    SABRAS is offering an innovative solar technology solution to replace the inefficient and costly

    diesel powered pumps. This technology will not only reduce harmful carbon emissions but also

    production costs in the long run and improve the efficiency of the salt

    production process. In addition to higher revenues, the salt workers now have more time on

    their hand as they are not required to constantly monitor the functioning of the solar pumps,

    like they had to in the case of the diesel pumps.

    : Cost Comparison Between Diesel and solar water pumps

    Though the short term investment for a solar pump is high (approximately Rs

    long run it is more cost effective. Currently SABRAS has installed two solar pumps. By the end

    of 2011 it aims to set up 25 pumps with financial assistance from banks. SABRAS is working on

    a low cost, solar concentrator technology that can be used for other purposes and not just be

    Developing a successful business model

    SABRAS is successfully accomplishing its business objectives as well as creating a social impact

    on the lives of the salt workers in Little Rann. It is combining commerce with a cause to

    improve livelihoods. To date, it has procured 22,000 tons of salt from over 39 salt workers and

    expanded its marketing network from 4 to 13 commercial companies. Initially having faced

    rtation and storage, the company could not meet its economies of

    scale but currently has earned a profit of approximately Rs. 200,000 lakhs. Gradually the

    processes involved are getting streamlined, as SABRAS plans to enter into more partnerships,

    investors and develop innovative and efficient technology.

    Cost Annual

    Maintenance

    Annual

    Fuel costs

    25,000 10,000 60,000

    2,00,000 15,000 -

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    9

    partnerships provide SABRAS with the necessary technical knowhow as well as financial

    SABRAS is offering an innovative solar technology solution to replace the inefficient and costly

    diesel powered pumps. This technology will not only reduce harmful carbon emissions but also

    production costs in the long run and improve the efficiency of the salt

    production process. In addition to higher revenues, the salt workers now have more time on

    their hand as they are not required to constantly monitor the functioning of the solar pumps,

    Though the short term investment for a solar pump is high (approximately Rs. 300,000) in the

    long run it is more cost effective. Currently SABRAS has installed two solar pumps. By the end

    of 2011 it aims to set up 25 pumps with financial assistance from banks. SABRAS is working on

    an be used for other purposes and not just be

    SABRAS is successfully accomplishing its business objectives as well as creating a social impact

    . It is combining commerce with a cause to

    improve livelihoods. To date, it has procured 22,000 tons of salt from over 39 salt workers and

    expanded its marketing network from 4 to 13 commercial companies. Initially having faced

    rtation and storage, the company could not meet its economies of

    scale but currently has earned a profit of approximately Rs. 200,000 lakhs. Gradually the

    processes involved are getting streamlined, as SABRAS plans to enter into more partnerships,

    Savings over

    Life of pump

    -

    8,25,000

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    In the future, SABRAS is looking to expand its operations into the processing of salt. SABRAS is

    in discussion with a leading retailer in India to undertake a new co

    SABRAS brand of edible salt that would be sold directly to retailers. On the side lines, SABRAS

    also hopes to develop a local brand of SABRAS salt for circulation in villages and aims to

    generate additional revenue through the sale of salt by

    profit margins are expected to increase, ensuring the long term sustainability of SABRAS.

    Research was carried out by OneWorld Foundation India (OWFI), Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team.

    Documentation was created by Research Associate,

    For further information, please contact

    References Ashoka Changemakers, http://www.changemakers.com/fr/node/105540/images

    2011

    Ashoka Changemakers, http://www.changemakers.com/g20media/socia

    2011

    Ashoka Changemakers,

    capital-putting,-sme-investments

    Bay of Bengal Programme,

    19th 2011

    Wind & Solar: Save the world energy,

    July 19th 2011

    Think Change India,

    indian-dream/ July 19th 2011

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    In the future, SABRAS is looking to expand its operations into the processing of salt. SABRAS is

    in discussion with a leading retailer in India to undertake a new co-branding effort for a

    rand of edible salt that would be sold directly to retailers. On the side lines, SABRAS

    also hopes to develop a local brand of SABRAS salt for circulation in villages and aims to

    generate additional revenue through the sale of salt by-products like potash.

    profit margins are expected to increase, ensuring the long term sustainability of SABRAS.

    Research was carried out by OneWorld Foundation India (OWFI), Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team.

    Documentation was created by Research Associate, Sapna Kedia

    For further information, please contact Naimur Rehman, Director, OWFI, at [email protected]

    http://www.changemakers.com/fr/node/105540/images

    http://www.changemakers.com/g20media/socia

    Ashoka Changemakers, http://www.changemakers.com/SME-Finance/entries/village

    investments-hands, July 18th 2011

    Bay of Bengal Programme, http://www.bobpigo.org/bbn/march_06/Page%2037

    Wind & Solar: Save the world energy, http://thesolarpowered.com/cost

    Think Change India, http://www.thinkchangeindia.org/2008/05/08/the

    July 19th 2011

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    10

    In the future, SABRAS is looking to expand its operations into the processing of salt. SABRAS is

    branding effort for a

    rand of edible salt that would be sold directly to retailers. On the side lines, SABRAS

    also hopes to develop a local brand of SABRAS salt for circulation in villages and aims to

    products like potash. In this manner

    profit margins are expected to increase, ensuring the long term sustainability of SABRAS.

    Research was carried out by OneWorld Foundation India (OWFI), Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team. Sapna Kedia

    [email protected]

    http://www.changemakers.com/fr/node/105540/images, July 18th

    http://www.changemakers.com/g20media/socialfinance, July 18th

    Finance/entries/village-

    http://www.bobpigo.org/bbn/march_06/Page%2037-40.pdf, July

    http://thesolarpowered.com/cost-of-solar-powered/,

    http://www.thinkchangeindia.org/2008/05/08/the-makings-of-the-

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    Appendix A Interview QuestionnaireBackground

    1. SAVE conducted a study to understand the conditions of the salt workers. What

    motivated SAVE to undertake the study? When was this study held?

    2. SAVE formed SABRAS Pvt. Ltd to end the exploitation faced by salt workers, provide

    them with access to instituti

    a fair share in the final profits made.

    a) What other objectives does SABRAS have?

    b) What was the condition of the salt workers prior to SABRASs intervention? How

    did they get access to financial as

    c) How did SABRAS approach the salt workers and convince them about its purpose

    of contributing towards the betterment of their livelihood?

    Stakeholders

    3. The key stakeholders in the project are: SAVE, Agariya Hit Rakshak Sangh, DASRA,

    Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Gujarat livelihood Promotion

    Company, NABARD, First Light Ventures, Idiom design and Consulting and Individual

    salt workers who have purchased equity in the company.

    a) Can you explain to us the role and res

    stakeholders?

    b) Are there any other stakeholders?

    c) The above list has names of government agencies ( NABARD, Gujarat Livelihood

    Promotion Company etc). How did SABRAS approach these agencies? Was there a

    particular reason for it?

    Program implementation

    COMPANY ACTIVITIES

    4. As we understand, SABRAS was established in 2007 and began with a pilot phase with

    NABARDs assistance. What activities did the pilot phase entail? What was the duration

    of the pilot?

    5. SABRASs major activities include

    a) Procurement

    b) Transportation

    c) Processing

    d) Packaging of salt

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    Interview Questionnaire

    SAVE conducted a study to understand the conditions of the salt workers. What

    motivated SAVE to undertake the study? When was this study held?

    SAVE formed SABRAS Pvt. Ltd to end the exploitation faced by salt workers, provide

    them with access to institutional credit, markets and technology and ensure that they get

    a fair share in the final profits made.

    What other objectives does SABRAS have?

    What was the condition of the salt workers prior to SABRASs intervention? How

    did they get access to financial assistance and markets?

    How did SABRAS approach the salt workers and convince them about its purpose

    of contributing towards the betterment of their livelihood?

    The key stakeholders in the project are: SAVE, Agariya Hit Rakshak Sangh, DASRA,

    Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Gujarat livelihood Promotion

    Company, NABARD, First Light Ventures, Idiom design and Consulting and Individual

    salt workers who have purchased equity in the company.

    Can you explain to us the role and responsibilities of each of one of the above

    Are there any other stakeholders?

    The above list has names of government agencies ( NABARD, Gujarat Livelihood

    Promotion Company etc). How did SABRAS approach these agencies? Was there a

    reason for it?

    As we understand, SABRAS was established in 2007 and began with a pilot phase with

    NABARDs assistance. What activities did the pilot phase entail? What was the duration

    activities include-

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    11

    SAVE conducted a study to understand the conditions of the salt workers. What

    motivated SAVE to undertake the study? When was this study held?

    SAVE formed SABRAS Pvt. Ltd to end the exploitation faced by salt workers, provide

    onal credit, markets and technology and ensure that they get

    What was the condition of the salt workers prior to SABRASs intervention? How

    How did SABRAS approach the salt workers and convince them about its purpose

    The key stakeholders in the project are: SAVE, Agariya Hit Rakshak Sangh, DASRA,

    Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Gujarat livelihood Promotion

    Company, NABARD, First Light Ventures, Idiom design and Consulting and Individual

    ponsibilities of each of one of the above

    The above list has names of government agencies ( NABARD, Gujarat Livelihood

    Promotion Company etc). How did SABRAS approach these agencies? Was there a

    As we understand, SABRAS was established in 2007 and began with a pilot phase with

    NABARDs assistance. What activities did the pilot phase entail? What was the duration

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    e) Marketing and approaching appropriate distribution channels: wholesale, retail?

    f) Knowledge services

    CAN YOU EXPLAIN HOW E

    6. SABRAS has also set up mobile shelters for families and multipurpose community

    shelters. Can you explain the purpose of these and who is responsible for their

    maintenance?

    7. SABRAS has also established a Community Resource Centre (CRC

    a) What is the purpose of the CRC?

    b) To what extent is this CRC being utilized?

    c) Is SABRAS planning to establish such CRCs in other villages too.

    8. SABRAS provides training to salt workers to establish micro enterprises. What does the

    training entail? Have any micro enterprises been established?

    9. SABRAS hopes to replace diesel pumps with solar pumps for the extraction of salt.

    a) Can you help us understand the process o

    solar pumps?

    b) How are solar pumps an improvement over diesel pumps?

    c) SABRAS began with providing 2 solar pumps in 2010. Which villages were these

    pumps installed in.

    d) In 2011, SABRAS aims to set up about 100 solar pumps

    have been installed so far?

    FINANCIAL OPERATIONS

    10. What was the set-up cost of the company? SABRAS received $ 75,000 from First Light

    Ventures. What end were these funds utilized for?

    11. We understand that salt workers hold 74% equi

    company. As far as ownership is concerned SAVE owns 85% of the company and salt

    workers own 15%.

    a) What is the difference between equity and ownership?

    b) How is ownership allocated between various salt workers?

    12. Installing solar pumps is extremely expensive. The cost of installing one pump is

    approximately 2 lakhs. For this purpose SABRAS proposed the lease against own

    program where it acts as a guarantor for the salt workers.

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    e) Marketing and approaching appropriate distribution channels: wholesale, retail?

    f) Knowledge services

    AN YOU EXPLAIN HOW EACH OF THESE ACTIVITIES IS CONDUCTED, IN DETAIL

    SABRAS has also set up mobile shelters for families and multipurpose community

    shelters. Can you explain the purpose of these and who is responsible for their

    SABRAS has also established a Community Resource Centre (CRC) in Jogad.

    What is the purpose of the CRC?

    To what extent is this CRC being utilized?

    Is SABRAS planning to establish such CRCs in other villages too.

    training to salt workers to establish micro enterprises. What does the

    training entail? Have any micro enterprises been established?

    SABRAS hopes to replace diesel pumps with solar pumps for the extraction of salt.

    Can you help us understand the process of salt extraction using both diesel and

    How are solar pumps an improvement over diesel pumps?

    SABRAS began with providing 2 solar pumps in 2010. Which villages were these

    pumps installed in.

    In 2011, SABRAS aims to set up about 100 solar pumps. How many solar pumps

    have been installed so far?

    up cost of the company? SABRAS received $ 75,000 from First Light

    Ventures. What end were these funds utilized for?

    We understand that salt workers hold 74% equity and SAVE owns 26% equity in the

    company. As far as ownership is concerned SAVE owns 85% of the company and salt

    What is the difference between equity and ownership?

    How is ownership allocated between various salt workers?

    lar pumps is extremely expensive. The cost of installing one pump is

    approximately 2 lakhs. For this purpose SABRAS proposed the lease against own

    program where it acts as a guarantor for the salt workers.

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    12

    e) Marketing and approaching appropriate distribution channels: wholesale, retail?

    IN DETAIL?

    SABRAS has also set up mobile shelters for families and multipurpose community

    shelters. Can you explain the purpose of these and who is responsible for their

    ) in Jogad.

    Is SABRAS planning to establish such CRCs in other villages too.

    training to salt workers to establish micro enterprises. What does the

    SABRAS hopes to replace diesel pumps with solar pumps for the extraction of salt.

    f salt extraction using both diesel and

    SABRAS began with providing 2 solar pumps in 2010. Which villages were these

    . How many solar pumps

    up cost of the company? SABRAS received $ 75,000 from First Light

    ty and SAVE owns 26% equity in the

    company. As far as ownership is concerned SAVE owns 85% of the company and salt

    lar pumps is extremely expensive. The cost of installing one pump is

    approximately 2 lakhs. For this purpose SABRAS proposed the lease against own

  • TRANSPARENCY AND

    Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Government of India

    a) How does the lease against own program function?

    b) Which banks does SABRAS approach for loans?

    c) SABRAS is providing assistance to salt workers in getting loans for solar pumps.

    Does SABRAS assist salt workers in getting institutional credit for any other

    purpose?

    Impact

    ACHIEVEMENTS

    13. What are the major achievements of SABRAS in the past three years? How has it

    impacted

    a) The lives of salt workers

    b) SABRAS as a company

    CHALLENGES

    14. What are the major challenges faced by SABRAS? How were they overcome?

    a) There is a need to increase the customer base of SABRAS in

    competition in the salt market. How does SABRAS plan to do so?

    b) The cost of solar pumps in very high. Besides the lease to own program, SABRAS is

    planning to look for alternative means (solar concentrating technological) of

    financing these pumps. What are the other alternative solutions and how will they

    be implemented?

    Enhancements

    15. What are the major enhancements planned for the future?

    a) SABRAS is hoping to establish it own processing unit. Why is this necessary? How

    will SABRAS go about it?

    b) SABRAS plans to introduce salt by

    branding SABRAS salt. How will this be done?

    Data

    16. Can you provide us with the following data:

    a) Number of salt workers reached so far

    b) Number of solar pumps installed

    c) Number of villages covered

    d) Contact details of other stakeholders

    RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

    Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

    Researched and documented by

    OneWorld Foundation India

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers

    How does the lease against own program function?

    Which banks does SABRAS approach for loans?

    SABRAS is providing assistance to salt workers in getting loans for solar pumps.

    Does SABRAS assist salt workers in getting institutional credit for any other

    achievements of SABRAS in the past three years? How has it

    The lives of salt workers

    SABRAS as a company

    What are the major challenges faced by SABRAS? How were they overcome?

    There is a need to increase the customer base of SABRAS in

    competition in the salt market. How does SABRAS plan to do so?

    The cost of solar pumps in very high. Besides the lease to own program, SABRAS is

    planning to look for alternative means (solar concentrating technological) of

    these pumps. What are the other alternative solutions and how will they

    What are the major enhancements planned for the future?

    SABRAS is hoping to establish it own processing unit. Why is this necessary? How

    about it?

    SABRAS plans to introduce salt by-products and partner with retailers for co

    branding SABRAS salt. How will this be done?

    Can you provide us with the following data:

    Number of salt workers reached so far

    Number of solar pumps installed

    ber of villages covered

    Contact details of other stakeholders

    CCOUNTABILITY

    Case Study Livelihoods Security

    Sabras: Empowering salt workers in Gujarat

    July 2011

    13

    SABRAS is providing assistance to salt workers in getting loans for solar pumps.

    Does SABRAS assist salt workers in getting institutional credit for any other

    achievements of SABRAS in the past three years? How has it

    What are the major challenges faced by SABRAS? How were they overcome?

    There is a need to increase the customer base of SABRAS in order to face the stiff

    competition in the salt market. How does SABRAS plan to do so?

    The cost of solar pumps in very high. Besides the lease to own program, SABRAS is

    planning to look for alternative means (solar concentrating technological) of

    these pumps. What are the other alternative solutions and how will they

    SABRAS is hoping to establish it own processing unit. Why is this necessary? How

    products and partner with retailers for co