As of 2001 [update] India census, Kanakapura had a population of 47,047. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Kanakapura has an average literacy rate of 66%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 72%, and female literacy is 59%. The project area geographically is located in two Hoblis of Maralawadi and Kodihalli. These hoblis are further divided into 6 clusters, each having 3 clusters. GREEN is spreading the message of agro biodiversity conservation sustainable farming across 60 villages of the project area Kanakapura taluk is an economically backward taluk ranking around 172 among 175 taluks. There is also increased migration due to proximity of the Silicion city which is about 55 kms away from Kanakapura. Most of the population in these villages is just above the poverty line and depend on farming and silkworm cultivation with marginal land for existence.

Since GRREN foundation has contributed significantly agro biodiversity conservation it has spread its work to Northern districts of Karnataka. The north Karnataka network was initiated out of a realization that it is important to sustain the work begun in Thally and Kanakpura taluka, which had brought demonstrable benefits to small and marginal farmers. As part of its planned growth, GREEN foundation established a seed bank network in 2001, in collaboration with 11 like minded NGOs in nine districts of Karnataka – Bijapur, Bagalkot, Bellary, Gadag, Dharwad, Belgaum, Koppal, Haveri, and Raichur - comprising of 35 talukas.

Northern Dry Zone is the largest agricultural zone of Karnataka. The total geographical area of the zone is 47.84 lakh ha, of which 36.63 lakh ha is under cultivation. This zone is characterized by high percentage of irrigation through different sources. The average rainfall of the this region is around 570 mm – 870 mm, occurring between June and October. The most important characteristic feature of this zone is the lowest rainfall – 574 mm occurring in about 30-35 rainy days. Both black and red soils are predominant with a higher percentage of black soils. Bijapur and Bagalkot districts are considered to be horticultural districts of the state.

The network is strengthened through initiation community seed banks, seed exchange, helping the farmers of north Karnataka build their capacity through trainings, on farm conservation of rich diversity of North karnataka

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