Although ERA has established a presence in nearly all districts of Uttarakhand, either directly or through partner NGOs, its intensive work was concentrated in Lohaghat block of Champawat district.

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Recently, ERA has expanded its focus to include Tiuni tehsil in the Dehradun district, a more challenging area that presents new opportunities for engagement.

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Tiuni: Facing the Challenges of Remoteness

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Tiuni, a remote Tribal Area 180 kilometers from Dehradun and 82 kilometers from Chakrata, boasts a breathtaking landscape defined by rugged terrain, deep gorges, and dense forests. This region experiences a diverse climate, shaped by its altitude and sun exposure, ranging from subtropical warmth to severe cold.

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Traditionally known as Babar, Tiuni comprises 53 villages with a population of 23,250 spread across 169 sq.km, resulting in a low density of just 137 people per km2. Despite recent improvements in road access, inadequate public transport remains a significant barrier to development.

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Demographically, Tiuni is home to a diverse population, with Scheduled Castes making up 23% and Scheduled Tribes 56%. However, the sex ratio is concerning, with only 928 females for every 1,000 males. Agriculture, supplemented by animal husbandry, is the primary livelihood, yet only 16% of the land is cultivated, and a mere 19% is irrigated. Recent shifts toward apple cultivation have introduced marketing challenges, highlighting the urgent need for interventions to enhance agricultural practices and water management.

Healthcare and education services are critically lacking, with an average literacy rate of 69% and a stark gender disparity—only 40% of women are literate. Many residents struggle to access basic services, often traveling long distances for healthcare and education, exacerbating health outcomes and employment opportunity disparities. Socioeconomic issues, including economic backwardness, limited access to education and healthcare, and outmigration, further complicate the region's development.

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In 2007, Tiuni Tehsil was carved out of Chakrata block, but this has proven to be merely an administrative exercise. The urgent need for Tiuni to be recognized as a separate block for targeted development interventions is long overdue. There is a growing grassroots demand for this recognition to uplift this hidden gem in the Himalayas.

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This area is commonly referred to as the Jaunsar-Bawar region and is classified as a Tri bal Area.

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Currently, the region produces high-quality apples, walnuts, rajma, brown rice, and off-season vegetables. However, it lacks essential interventions in promotion, primary processing, transportation, branding, and marketing to enhance these agricultural products.
ERA has maintained a strong presence in the proposed area for over 30 years, during which it has implemented a multitude of projects. The organization has its registered office at Tiuni, and one of its board members hails from the beneficiary community, ensuring a deep understanding of local needs and challenges.

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Given the opportunity, ERA's intervention in Tiuni tehsil has the potential to evolve into a meaningful and long-lasting relationship, fostering sustainable development and empowerment within the community.