CHAPTER THREE - Integrated rural food–energy systems, technology and technology diffusion in India

Abstract

This chapter discusses integrated rural food energy systems and technology diffusion in India. The chapter focuses on work done in the rural districts of Tamil Nadu in 1978. In 1979 the International Federation of Institutes of Advanced Studies, Stockholm, and in 1980 the United Nations University (UNU), Tokyo, collaborated with MCRC (Shri A. M. M. Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre) on several aspects of their work. The UNU program dealt with an integrated rural household incorporating a wind device, hand-pump, fish pond, biogas system, and biodynamic garden. Two demonstration centers, at Injambakkam and at Vadakkadambadi, were established. The unit at Injambakkam partly existed and required enlarging and maintenance. The demonstration unit at Injambakkam consists of windmills for water pumping, biogas systems at the household level and for a community latrine system, biodynamic gardens, and fodder and forestry in community lands. In June 1981, staff members moved into Poonjeri village and set up house. Around-the-clock availability dramatically increased the credibility of the effort and reduced the communication barriers normally encountered with short-term visits.