Consultant for Remote sensing data

Evaluation of soyabean interventions in Maharashtra, India

Background

With support from the Gates Foundation, the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is undertaking a study to evaluate initiatives by a large solvent extractor in Maharashtra, India. The solvent extractor works with organic, sustainable and conventional farmers of soybean in Latur, Osmanabad, Bid, and nearby districts of Maharashtra. We will examine the impact of agriculture extension services provided by the extractor on production of soybean in the region.

Statement of Work

IFPRI will study the impact of extension on a range of outcomes of interest to IFPRI, the processor and the Gates Foundation. These include (but are not limited to) cost of cultivation, agricultural yields and profits, price realization, recognition of the processor and the proportion of soybean output that is sold through the processor, information seeking behavior, and the use and perception of the advisory services, knowledge, and adoption of recommended behavior, including sustainability certifications. For this purpose, we are looking for an experienced firm with a strong track record to help digitize soyabean plots and provide remote sensing data for the measured plots across a range of parameters.

We seek data for approximately 4500 farmers from 300 villages, covering 4500 plots with an estimated area of 4500-10000 acres of land.

The firm is expected to carry out the following tasks:

· Deliver the remote sensing data required in a CSV format in accordance with IFPRI’s preference.

· Commit to ensuring that these data and the identity of the farmers are completely confidential and are the property of IFPRI. The list of farmers, the location of their plots and the data generated on size of the plots cannot be used or shared without the express written permission from IFPRI.

· Throughout this process, demonstrate responsiveness to IFPRI communications, especially around any urgent data collection issues.

Specifics of data requested:

We request soybean crop yield date for four points in a season for the on-going Kharif 2024, and for the past two seasons Kharif 2023 and Kharif 2022 from July to October. We also request data for crop and soil health parameters and rainfall and temperature for July 2024-January 2025 (7 months). The following table lists the indicators to be obtained using remote sensing along with the desired resolution and frequency.

Required qualifications

· A strong track record of supplying remote sensing data and advisories to established clients in the field of agriculture.

· Experience in building trust and good relations with local administration, village leaders, and communities.

Preferred qualifications

· Demonstrated ability to work with not-for-profit organizations or academic institutions for research.

· Specific experience with soyabean.

Application: Please submit a letter of interest highlighting qualifications mentioned above, along with a detailed budget. Materials should be submitted in English. The deadline to submit your application is September 24, 2024.