RFP: Agency/Consultant for conducting Comprehensive Assessment of the Satluj River Basin for Agroforestry, Freshwater Conservation and Landscape Restoration in Punjab, TNC

INTRODUCTION

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a leading conservation organization working to make a positive impact around the world in 76 countries and territories. Founded in 1951, TNC’s mission is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. With our core values of integrity beyond reproach, respect for people communities and culture, and commitment to diversity we aim at environmental conservation through lasting tangible results.

Nature Conservancy India Solutions Private Limited (NCIS) is a Private Limited Company incorporated under The Companies Act, 2013. It is a subsidiary of The Nature Conservancy, one of the largest not-for-profit conservation organisations in the world. NCIS was incorporated with the objective of providing research, consulting, technical support, and advisory services to various stakeholders in and outside India relating to conservation of nature, environment, biodiversity, and climate change. 

TNC launched the PRANA (Promoting Regenerative and No-Burn Agriculture) initiative in 2021 to eliminate crop residue burning and advance regenerative agriculture in Punjab. Building on this work, the project is also focusing on climate-smart crop diversification and promoting agroforestry and tree based solutions, including areas along the Satluj River Basin, to strengthen climate resilience and improve environmental outcomes.

Given the importance of the Satluj River Basin for agriculture, freshwater resources and local communities, TNC proposes to undertake a comprehensive basin-level study to better understand its current status, key environmental challenges and restoration opportunities. The study will assess water resources, land use, flooding, erosion, groundwater stress and landscape health, and identify priority areas where agroforestry, riparian plantations and other nature-based solutions can support freshwater conservation, ecosystem restoration and climate resilience.

PURPOSE

NCIS invites proposals from qualified agencies or consultants to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the Satluj River Basin in Punjab to understand its current water, agricultural and environmental conditions, key risks, and opportunities for landscape restoration. The study will assess the potential of agroforestry, riparian plantations and other nature-based solutions to improve freshwater resources, strengthen climate resilience and deliver wider environmental and livelihood benefits. It will also identify and prioritize suitable locations for interventions and estimate their potential freshwater, carbon, biodiversity and soil conservation benefits. The findings will support NCIS in developing a strategic roadmap for future investments, partnerships and on-ground interventions across the Satluj River Basin.

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