1. It is CSOs that are closer to the farmers and field-functionaries and understand better the ground-level realities, problems and challenges faced.
2. CSOs help translate the official jargon and the technical terms into an easily understandable form suitable for the relatively less educated masses.
3. CSOs, in general, work more passionately and devotedly than all others including the governmental staff.
4. CSOs undertake tasks as their 'personal tasks' rather than a 'given task for a salary'.
5. CSOs can effectively contribute to gain necessary momentum for SDGs if given a chance. How? FAO has to shortlist genuine CSOs that have shown results in their own working - and then FAO must raise their faith on CSOs.
6. Best results can be expected by a working combination of the two; presently it is too skewed towards FAO.
At last - regarding challenges CSOs face to engage with FAO -
> Working of CSOs is not as structured as FAO demands; FAO must compromise in small measures and be ready to 'experiment'. I believe - the risk will be far less than the significant gains and achievements made.
> CSOs prefer to complete the tasks - rather than filling long details in applications or submitting series of forms and reports - need to find a way out. Test of completion of task should be 'deliverables'.
> Develop a middle level cadre of experts [senior - probably superannuated personnel] - who would suggest on good/ dependable CSOs based on the track record - suitable for the specific tasks at hand.
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Having worked in both the systems - first in the Government system and, after superannuation, in the CSO - I personally know and hence confidently made the above points. Thanks.
Dr. DEVINDER SADANA