Most of ASSIST target population is represented by daily wage workers and marginal farmers and artisans. A great majority is in a way or another linked to agricultural seasonality, in a State where rain fall is decreasing year by year. To break the cycle of dependence and poverty it is necessary to provide livelihood opportunities depending on the skills and capabilities of the target population. Possible schemes include livestock rearing, poultry boxes, dairy, occupational activities, petty shops

The setting of micro-enterprises depends upon feasibility studies done to identify locally available skills, raw material and demand. Selected beneficiaries are then trained on technical, managerial and administrative skills. The necessary support to start a micro-enterprise is then provided through micro credit and the necessary linkages are created with government and financial institutions

Besides enhancing the living conditions of the families, such activities can compensate for some of the losses incurred when parents withdraw their children from work, additionally motivating the parents in sending children to school