Sheladia Associates, Inc.

Preparation of integrated rural development project in Bahawalpur Division located along the southeast fringe of the Punjab Province. The Division was only settled during the last 50 years and covers an area of about 45,000 km², of which 60% consists of extremely arid, uncultivated desert. It is one of the least developed but, due to its irrigation potential, it is potentially one of the most productive areas in Punjab. Project design centered on seven sectors to alleviate poverty and provide stimulus for private sector initiative for development in the Division. Project encourages grouping sub-projects for maximum impact by geographic area and the promotion of beneficiary participation. Sectors include:

• Agricultural production and land and water conservation
• Rural electrification
• Upgrading of rural roads
• Upgrading of rural markets and associated structures
• Farm forestry for conservation and agri-business
• Provision of potable water and sanitation in rural areas
• Range management and livestock improvement
• Preparation of an area development project suitable for sector lending
• Preparation of cost estimates for project implementation
• Development of specific subproject selection criteria and procedures
• Development of implementation schedules and arrangements
• Development of operation and maintenance arrangements.