Explain CAPART.

CAPART stands for the Council for Advancement of People's Action and Rural Technology. It was an autonomous body under the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, established in 1986 to promote rural development initiatives and grassroots innovations across India.

The primary objective of CAPART was to facilitate and support community-based organizations (CBOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and voluntary agencies working in rural areas to implement development projects and programs. CAPART aimed to empower rural communities, promote self-reliance, and enhance the quality of life in rural India through participatory and sustainable development interventions.

Key functions of CAPART included:

• Providing financial assistance and grants to eligible organizations for implementing rural development projects in areas such as agriculture, rural industries, education, health, and sanitation.
• Supporting capacity-building initiatives and training programs for CBOs and NGOs to strengthen their institutional capabilities and project management skills.
• Facilitating the dissemination and replication of successful rural development models, innovations, and best practices.
• Promoting the adoption of appropriate rural technologies to improve livelihoods and enhance productivity in agriculture and allied sectors.
• Fostering partnerships and collaborations among stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and private sector entities.

CAPART played a significant role in promoting inclusive and sustainable rural development by mobilizing resources, building local capacities, and empowering rural communities to take ownership of their development processes. However, CAPART was dissolved in 2018 as part of the Government of India's restructuring efforts, and its functions were merged with other institutions to streamline rural development initiatives and enhance effectiveness in addressing rural challenges.