RAIPUR Today a team of Japanese officials of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) visited Sandi Gauthan of Dhamdha development to see the livelihood-oriented activities being conducted in Gauthan. The Japanese team was impressed by the protection of cows and how an ecosystem could be created from the products given by them.  The officials observed various activities that have been conducted under Gauthan which include production of vermicompost manure, hatchery, brooding house, poultry rearing, quail rearing, community Badi, and other activities by the Women’s Self Help Groups. They also interacted with the women of Self Help Groups involved in activities through the officers present. They understood and appreciated the concept Gauthan that how it works for the benefit of animals and humans. They said that this concept is new for them, which strengthens the rural economy. Knowing about the earnings of women through self-help groups, they expressed their happiness and also called it a meaningful initiative towards women empowerment. After this, the team also visited a farmer named Mr. Mayank Chauhan’s farm in Girhola where they saw the cultivation of plug-type vegetable seedlings and dragon fruit. They were very amazed by the advanced level of farming. The members of visiting team were Mr. Koide Sota Deputy Director of JICA, Miss H Shashaki Country Officer, Kaori Fruyama a representative of JICA India, Anurag Sinha Principal Development Specialist, and other officals.