Inspiring Stories of

Progressive Women Farmers

2020-21

Government of India
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare
v
 INDEX

S.No Name of the Farmer/ Farmers Group Name of the Story Page No.
Integrated Farming System

1 Ms. Nabanita Das Journey of nurse to become a farmer 1

2 Smt. Dipika Rabha Integrated Farming System for livelihood promotion 3

3 Smt. Suchitra Roy Income enhancement through Agriculture 4
4 Smt. Gayatri M.S. Integrated Agro-Forestry Model: A Success Story 5

5 Smt. Ashma M. Hombal A successful Betel Vine cultivator 6

6 Smt. Swapna James Integrated Farming System: A Model Farm by a Woman 7
7 Smt. P.C. Lalrinliani Empowerment through Integrated Farming System 8
8 Ms. Amarjeet Kaur Integrated Farming System – a gateway of success for farm woman 10
9 Smt Hemalatha Integrated Farming and Kitchen Gardening 11
10 Smt. Kamalamma Integrated Farming System: A Success Story 12

11 Smt. Lenkesh Bai A Successful Integrated Farming model 13

12 Smt. Vishakha Vithoba Velip Woman Farmer strides ahead with small holding 14
13 Smt. B. Rami Reddy Success story on performance of transplanted Red Gram 15

Integrated Crop Management

14 Smt. Tapasi Patra Black Gram cultivation with new technology 16

15 Smt. Sobhangini Bhutia Adoption of Integrated method of Black Gram Cultivation 17

16 Smt. Jhumuri Sahu Adoption of High Yielding Mustard for higher production 18
17 Smt. Rashmita Sahu Adoption of high yielding groundnut, variety Dharani 19
18 Smt. Sangeeta Walmik Sangle Crop Diversification: Success Story of a Woman Farmer 20
19 Smt. Yangden Lepcha Hybrid Maize cultivation 21
20 Smt Rupireddy Laxmi Success story on broad casting/direct sowing in paddy 22

Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries

21 Smt. Chupen Phom Nutritional security through backyard layer poultry farming 23
22 Smt. Vevohulu Churhah Determination and courage lead to success 24
23 Smt. S. Lakshmi Scientific Intervention in Dairy Farming 26
24 Smt. Brinda Devi Slatted floor Goat Farming : A success story 27
25 Mrs. Khushi Lepcha Azolla as Livestock Feed - A Success Story 28
26 Smt. Abboju Jyoti Success story of a dairy woman 29

27 Smt Kamalpreet Kaur Dairy farmer engineered her success through technology 30

28 Smt. Bornali Sarmah Duara Goatary as a successful venture 31

S.No Name of the Farmer/ Farmers Group Name of the Story Page No.
Integrated Nutrient Management: Vermicomposting /Fertiliser use etc.
29 Smt. Kanika Talukdar Income and employment generation through Vermicompost 32

30 Smt. Rupali Vijay Mali Vermicomposting – a successful agro-enterprise 34

31 SHGs Under ATMA, Goa Organic farming by adopting Vermicomposting 35

32 ATMA-Food Security Group Success Story of Berkeley Composting (18 days composting) 36
method
33 Smt. Darshana Sharma Vermicompost: Source of income and employment generation 37
Bee keeping
34 Smt. S. Lalitha Reddy Bee Keeping as a successful income generating enterprise 38
Horticulture
35 Smt. Arlena Sangtam Floriculture for better income and sustainable livelihood
Self Help Group/ Commodity Interest Group
36 VAU Self Help Group Natural Homemade Soap and Paper Bag making 41
37 Roja Commodity Interest Group Success story of ATMA (Commodity Interest Groups) 42
38 Chiruplang Commodity Interest Group Group Marketing for remunerative price to small growers 43
Mookyndur
39 Bolkinggre Women’s Commodity Interest Additional Income from value addition of Banana 44
Group
40 Sri Renugadevi Commodity Interest Group Success of Commodity Interest Group in Marine Fish Products 45
Food Processing & Value Addition
41 Smt. Marla A fruitful economic woman entrepreneur 46
42 Smt. Naorem Arundayanti Devi Successful woman entrepreneur in Papad making 47
43 Smt. Tarawati Value addition for economic empowerment 48
44 Smt. Saroja N. Patil Value addition and marketing of minor millets 49
45 Smt. Rajeshwari Success story of value added products of ragi 50
46 Smt Suman Sarmah Soybean Processing – a suitable remunerative enterprise 51
Mushroom production/ Spawn production
47 Smt. Nidhi Katare Mushroom processing and value addition 52
48 Smt. Girija Prasad Wealth and Health from Organic Waste 53
49 Smt. Pratibha Jha Mushroom Cultivation conferred recognition 54
Water Harvesting & Irrigation/ Agroforestry
50 Smt. Phyrnailang Kurkalang Success Story of Rain Water Harvesting 55
51 Smt. Gurmeet Kaur Success in Agro-forestry 56

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 2020-21

Journey of nurse TO
1 BECOME A FARMER

Ms Nabanita Das , Village Potiya Goan, P.O.: Fokala Pather, Block: Jorhat West, Distt. :
Jorhat, State: Assam-785111, Contact No.7576918243, email Id-dasnabanita966@gmail.com

INTRODUCTION: yyAt present her farm has become a small agri-hub with
production of flowers (Anthurium, Gerbera, Gladiolus,
yyMs. Nabanita Das, daughter of Late Ananda Das of Jorhat tuberose etc), rice, different pulses, oilseeds, fruits and
district in Assam is a young, energetic and dynamic
progressive woman farmer. After passing her High vegetables, fish (local type and carps), eggs, milk, goatery
School Learning Certificate Examination, she got trained and different poultry breeds viz. Silky Chicken , Rainbow
as a Auxiliary Nurse. Though she nursed the ailing Roaster, Bonroja, Kadaknath, Turkey, Guniea fowl;
human being, being a daughter of cultivator; she nursed a Pigeon ((Masokali); duck breeds (White Peikin), Indian
‘farmer’ in her heart all along. Runner and indigenous duck.
yyThe beauty of her farm is she has utilised every inch of
TRAINING AND MOTIVATION: the farm land as a productive asset utilizing vertical space
yyWhile working as a nurse, she developed an attraction also.
to farming on seeing the green fields on both sides of the yyRecently she has introduced vermicompost production
road on her way to the hospital. and Azolla culture.
yyAfter few years she chose farming as her occupation yyHer earning from the land was merely Rs 4000/- before
leaving nursing profession from a government hospital of government interventions. Now she earns Rs. 30,000/- net
Jorhat and started organic farming from the year of 2010. profit in first year (2014) Rs. 56,000/- in 2nd year (2015),
yyNow she is an established progressive farmer of repute Rs. 96,000/- in 3rd year (2016), Rs 1,10,000/- in 4th year
and owner of “Nabanita Organic Farm”. (2017) and Rs 1,25,000/- in 2019.
yyHer first formal training was a training programme on CONTRIBUTING FACTORS:
Horticultural crop in 2014 organised by Department of
Agriculture, Govt. of Assam (GoA). Thereafter, she yyRegarding organic farming, she always says that, ‘low
attended trainings under Horticulture Mission for North- cost of production, quality produce with best taste and
Eastern and Himalayan States(HMNEH), RKVY, Assam opportunity to get good premium price organic production
Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project (APART), is really economically viable. As it has been a good
GoA at various times. demand in my locality as well as my nearest town Jorhat
where buyers from different State and National level
ACHIEVEMENTS: institutions along with local people are eagerly ready to
buy these produces. In fact my organic farming and its
yyWith the trainings and handholding from District
produce has provided a viable income which encourage
Agriculture Department, Assam; Assam Agricultural
University and Krishi Vigyan Kendra; she made me to quit my government job. Converting from nursing
significant progress towards becoming a progressive to farming is the excellent example for my financial
farmer and agripreneur. security.’

yyNow she is an established progressive farmer of repute yyShe cultivates and preserves different type of indigenous
and owner of “Nabanita Organic Farm” at her village. scented rice genotypes like Keteki Joha, Kunkuni Joha,
Kolajoha etc. Moreover she is cultivating black rice
yyShe converted her previous typical mono cropped rice which originated in Manipur and is used to make different
land by adopting raised and sunken bed method into a products of black rice.
model flower crop based farming system with integration
of horticulture, fish pond and animal husbandry etc.

1
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

AWARDS & RECOGNITION: 5 Moreover, she availed the chance to visit Vietnam to
For her excellence in the field of Agriculture, she bagged some know about innovative cultivation practices along with
special awards. other progressive farmers of the State sponsored by Govt.
of Assam in the year 2019
1 Awarded for outstanding contribution in field of 6 Many distinguished personality has encouraged her by
Agriculture by Vice-President of India, 2018 at Assam gracing her with their visit which include Hon’ble Chief
Agricultural University,Jorhat. Minister of Assam, Hon’ble Speaker of Assam Legislative
2 “Innovative Rice Farmer Award” by Indian Council of Assembly, Hon’ble Agriculture Minister (GoA) & Vice
Agriculture Research, Patna in 2018. Chancellor of Assam Agricultural University.
3 ‘Progressive women farmer award’ in New Delhi on the
occasion of Mahila Kisan Diwas, 2018. INFLUENCE ON OTHER FARMERS:
4 On various occasions she has been Awarded by the Many farmers and youth visit her farm to take a glimpse of her
Hon’ble Governor, Hon’ble Chief Minister and Hon’ble success and many have followed her footsteps.
Agriculture Minister of Assam.

2
 2020-21

2
Smt. Dipika Rabha, Village Pachim Dairang, PO Khargdang, , Dev. Block Krishnan,
District Goalpara, State Assam Phone No. 8638017330

INTRODUCTION: yyIn the year 2015 in January a “Sarpark Livelihood

Promotion Society” was established in her village
yySmt. Dipika Rabha, W/o Sh.Tarun Chandr Rabha, aged 41 Pachim Dairang and Smt. Depika Rabha was nominated
years is a dynamic and progressive woman farmer from a
typical tribal village. She is educated upto matriculation. as a President of the Society. The Farmers under this
Presently, she is engaged in modern cultivation. Society attended different training programmes on
modern agriculture practices conducted by the District
yyShe owns 12 bighas of lease in land where she grows Agricultural Office of State Agriculture Department and
scented (joha) rice. Rural Self Employment Training Institute (RSETI) of the
district Goalpara.
TRAINING & MOTIVATION:
yyShe was motivated towards broad based agriculture when yyWith the help of her husband, she started Piggery Farm
she attended a training. with ½ Bigha of her homestead land with modern
technology. She generally sold out 20-30 nos. of adult
yyThen she attended trainings organised by various pigs annually. At present she has 40 nos. of upgraded
Departments and organisations. adults of pigs & piglets in her farm.
ACHIEVEMENTS: yySmt. Dipika Rabha has started organic scented Joha
rice cultivation in 12 bighas of land and organic Papaya
Mrs. Rabha got noticed by her fellow women friends and they
cultivation in 5 Bighas of land. Besides cultivating field
made her their mentor.
crops, Smt. Dipika Rabha also cultivates organic kharif &
rabi vegetables and fruits etc. in her homestead garden.

Details of cultivation:
S. Year Total Area Name of Crops Approx. Annual Income Remarks.
No after expenditure
1 2018-19 12 Bighas (Leased Land) Organic Scented Joha Paddy Rs.2,59,200.00
5 Bighas (Leased Land) Organic Papaya Rs.6,10,000.00
14 Bighas Homestead Kharif & Rabi Vegetables( 4 Bigha each) Rs.1,50,000.00
Garden(Own) Arecanut, Beetlevine, Coconut, Assam - Oil Palm &
Lemon, Pinaple and others indigenous Rs.1,00,000.00 Rubber in
fruits (All Organic) (3 Bigha), growing stage.
Piggery unit (1/2 Bigha) Rs.1,05,000.00
Low cost mini Green house & For raising
Vermicompost unit (1/2 Bigha) seedling & own
Rs.1,75,000.00
use.

RECOGNITION & AWARDS: She was selected as a ‘Best Women Progressive Farmers’ in
Her interest in Agriculture & Allied activities and also hard the District in 2018. State government selected her for Mohila
labour made her a progressive woman farmer and a leader of Kisan Award which she was awarded on 15th October, 2018 by
the women farmers’ in her locality. the Hon’ble Union Agriculture Minister at New Delhi.

3
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

income enhancement
3 through agriculture

Smt. Suchitra Roy, Village: Diajhajhree, District: Kokrajhar, State: Assam

INTRODUCTION: low but after having proper training and timely supply
of quality seeds and other inputs from Department
yySmt. Suchitra Roy, W/o. Lt. Jibeswar Roy, a lady farmer of Agriculture and KVK. Her net yearly income has
from the village Diajhajhree of Kokrajhar District is a
regular practising farmer. She has three family members increased to lakhs of Rupees from a meagre income.
at her home, mother-in-law, son and herself. After the yyUnder Horticulture Scheme for the year 2018-19, she
death of her husband, the pension that she got was not also got a power tiller from Department of Agriculture,
enough to look after her family, so she took up farming Kokrajhar.
to run her family. She has 11 bighas of total land holding. yyShe has also planned to grow more varieties of crops in
Her household and homestead garden occupies 2 bighas her field in coming season. As she got the power tiller this
of land. Her total land for field crops occupies 9 bighas. year, she plans to make full use of it during her cultivation
She mainly grows paddy in her field during Kharif season. of crops.
She grows local rice varities like Aijung, Bhogdhan,
Black rice and HYV Ranjit. She cultivates potato during
yyApart from farming, she has expertise in other works like
pickle making business and she also have an enterprise
rabi season. She also have mushroom cultivation from named Suprabhad Enterprise where she along with other
which she gets a good profit. She also grows pulse crops ladies of the locality prepare incense sticks for which they
like blackgram and other vegetable crops like mustard, have been awarded by National Bank For Agriculture
bhindi, tomato, cole crops etc. And Rural Development (NABARD) for their splendid
performances in agricultural and allied activities.
TRAINING AND MOTIVATION:
yyShe got training from Department of Agriculture, yyBy observing the income and passion of Mrs. Suchitra
Kokrajhar and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kokrajhar Roy, other ladies from that locality are also interested in
and has knowledge of modern cultivation of crops. She taking up farming like her.
uses farm yard manures and fertilizers in her field.
AWARDS RECOGNITION :
ACHIEVEMENTS: yyNABARD has awarded the Suprabhat Enteprise for their
splendid performance in agriculture and allied activities.
yyAt the beginning, Mrs. Suchitra Roy’s income was very

4
 2020-21

integrated agro-
4 forestry model:
a success story
Smt. Gayatri. M.S., Village: Kulagana, Block: Chamarajanagar District: Chamarajanagar,
State: Karnataka

INTRODUCTION: yyShe is having dairy animals and has also planted improved
fodder crops in her farmland for dairy animals.
yySmt. Gayathri M.S, aged about 58 years actively involved
in farming. She is from Kulagana village of Harave hobli yyShe is managing vermicompost unit, bio-digester & gobar
of District Chamarajanagar. She is having 3.5 acres of gas unit at her farm along with drip irrigation facilities for
land. Earlier, she used to grow only cereals, pulses & the crops.
sericulture which was not remunerative for her. yyDuring 2015, she has received highest price for her
bivoltine cocoons. She actively participates in training
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: programmes both at KVK and line departments. She is
yyOnce she accidentally came to know about the existence a resource person for many of the training programmes
of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) during the year 2014. conducted by line departments and other NGOs.
Then she had interaction with KVK scientists about the
Integrated Farming System, soil and water testing. IMPORTANCE TO OTHER FARMERS:
ACHIEVEMENTS:
yyShe works as facilitator for 30 SHGs of Sri Kshethra
Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP)
yyFirstly, she tested her soil and water of fields and based on and she is also President for one of the Federation in
the result of the tests, She is applying fertilizers on STCR her area. She has given radio programme on Integrated
(Soil Testing Crop Response) approach. Then she started Farming System. SKDRDP NGO brings farmers to her
cultivating vegetables, plantation crops and diversification field in 3 to 4 batches every month for exposure visit. She
in mulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing. gives information to the farmers about organic farming,
yyShe is having the separate rearing house for silkworm market led agriculture, integrated farming system and
rearing and improved varieties of mulberry. water management.
yyShe is also into Agro-forestry, Hebbevu, Teak, Silver-oak yyShe sells her produce directly to the consumers without
& Neem trees all along the borders of her farmland. She is involvement of middlemen to Gundlupet and Mysuru
very innovative and tries experimenting in her farmland. market and gets money immediately with premium price.
yyShe has also planted cherry, apple and dates in her yyShe is President for Milk Producers Cooperative Society
field. Cherry plants have already started bearing fruits. Kulagana and Member for Primary Agricultural Credit
Coconut, mango, drumstick, papaya and other plants are Cooperative Society.
also planted in her fields by practicing organic farming.

5
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

A SUCCESSFUL BETEL VINE

5 CULTIVATOR

Smt. Ashma M. Hombal, Village: Chalachgudda, Block: Badami, District: Bagalkot,

State: Karnataka

INTRODUCTION: G9 and Rajapuri banana varieties are cultivated keeping

the market demand in mind. The yield of Rajapuri banana
yyA Bachelore degree holder from Chalachgudda village is less but it fetches more price, and G9 yields more. Thus,
from Badami, Bagalkot district, Smt. Asma M. Hombal
is 29 year old woman pursuing agriculture. Being totally she is cultivating this combination of banana varieties for
different from what other graduates do after completing higher yield and better process.
her graduation, Asma turned towards agriculture. yyHer lawyer husband supports in procurement of inputs.
They are having one borewell to support the entire 10
TRAINING MOTIVATION: acre farm but recently there is acute shortage of the water
yyShe was attracted to agriculture, after seeing the other outflow.
members from her family practicing agriculture for yyIn one acre of land she is cultivating vegetable. After
livelihood and sustenance and then decided to be with growing for certain period the vegetable plots are given
them. Slowly she developed interest and added more and for auction which makes them feel assured about the
more crops to agriculture. Her family was cultivating returns. In one acre of land she grows cowpea earning
betelvine since ages. But, Asma added banana and coconut around Rs. 15,000 profit per season. This also provides
to the farm diversity after studying the local market. biomass to soil and fodder to animals.
Badami, a tourist place in Bagalkot near to her place
attracts tourists throught the year ensuring continuous
yyShe has 200 coconut plants along the bunds earning a
profit of Rs 50,000/month . Milea dubia, drumstick, neem
demand for coconut and banana. trees along the bunds are the long-term investments for
yyShe is in continuous touch with ICAR-Krishi Vigyan future income.
Kendra, Bagalkot and Horticulture Department officials
for getting guidance from time to time. She feels working
yyLive fencing secures crops and also act as source of
fodder. Guava, curry leaf and lemon plants serve the dual
jointly, judicious use of water, studying the market and purpose of home consumption and additional income.
planning accordingly and direct marketing are the secrets
of success in agriculture. yyLivestock unit with five buffalo, one cow of
Holstein  Friesian breed , three goats and a flock of 10
ACHIEVEMENTS: birds ensures manure requirement, meets family nutrition
and regular income.
yyBetelvine is one of the most important commercial crop of
Karnataka. Making betelvine cultivation more profitable yyShe is earning around Rs 30,000 per month from livestock
compared to other crops. Once planted, plants will unit.
continue to yield quality leaves for more than 30 years,
with proper care. On an average, each plant bears around IMPACT ON OTHER FARMERS:
18000 leaves in one year out of which, around 6000 leaves yyJoint family of six members is fully contributing to
can be harvested per annum. She is cultivating betelvine agriculture work thus saving cost on labour. Without
in 3 acres of land earning profit of 36,000 per month. depending on the middlemen, direct marketing of
produce in the nearby markets has given them better
yyBesides betelvine, the other major crop is banana. Two price. She is a model women farmer for the other farmers.
acres of banana cultivation fetches a profit of Rs 50,000.

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 2020-21

INTEGRATED FARMING
6 SYSTEM : A MODeL FARM BY
A WOMAN
Smt. Swapna James, Vill:Sreekrishnapuram Kulakattukurissi, Block & Taluk : Ottapalam
Dist: Palakkad, State: Kerala, Contact : 9446369247

INTRODUCTION: ACHIEVEMENTS:
yySmt. Swapna James is an indomitable woman with yySheer hardwork and dedication helped her establish a
positive vives for hard work. She lives at village model organic integrated farm with help and support from
Kulakkattukurissi near Sreekrishnapuram in Palakkad her family.
district. After thirty years of farming, their agri farm has
yyCollecting all the novel and rare varieties of vegetables
been declared has been as one of the best in Kerala and and other crops from the exposure visits made her farm a
their daughter in law Smt. Swapna James was selected as hub of bio diversity models.
‘The Karshakathilakam’ in the state of Kerala (Award for
the best women farmer in Kerala by the State Agriculture yySharing of such seeds and plants to those farmers who
wish to cultivate the rare items also make their farm busy
Department)in the year 2018. She is looking after the 19
with visitors and scholars.
acre family farm.
yyThe 19 acre farm semi circled by river Thoothapuzha yyAnother replicable model in the farm is the rain water
harvesting system, water storing ponds and diverse fish
with half of the area cultivated with Rubber ,the
breeds in the water. The ponds rewards a decent income
other nine acre fully kept in multicrop diversity with
from fish culture and water storage support the irrigation
coconut, Arecanut, cocoa, Nutmeg, coffee, Jacktree
needs in the drought season.
and pepper .The boundaries with tree crop like Teak
Mahagani Jacktree and Matti resembles a perfect model yyThe diversity of crops in her farm includes : 45 varieties
of sustainable agriculture. Half an acre near the farm of Mango like Chandrakaran, Mallika, Sindhooram,
house fully cultivated with diverse food and fruit crops Kalapadi, 33 diverse jackfruit trees like all season,
like tapioca, banana, ginger, turmeric, yam, bitter gourd, Gumless, Muttam Varikka, Thenvarikka, Sindhoori
chilly, snake gourd, little gourd, diverse tuber crops, 26 Nutmeg varieties, 14 different Guava trees like
etc and made the area as a model food crop ocean. She Violet, Strawberry, Mundiri, Chinese and Kilogauva, 35
is also keeping 3 cows of Vechure breed (deshi cow of plantain varieties, 08 trees in lemon family, 18 different
Kerala from Kottayam district) & different breeds of Coloccassia, one dozen leafy vegetables, half a dozen
poultry,duck,quail and also goat are reared by her. Bhindi varieties, 14 different Tapioca and all other tubers
and vegetables of diverse shapes and colours warrants
yyAll the farm inputs are self made and sourced from a micro gene bank status and a must visit farm in the
this nineteen acres farm. The zero budget preparations
state. The total green treasures of Fruit trees, Vegetables
like Jeevamrutha, Beejamrutha Ghana Jeevamrutha
& Medicinal plants also includes- Milk Fruit(Star
Panchagavya and Thumboormuzhy and aerobic compost
Apple), Star Fruit, Egg Fruit or Canistel, Pomegranate,
etc supported with live and dead mulching make the farm
Burmese Grapes, Jabuticaba, Cherry, Longan, Soursop,
soil healthy and fertile. Solar light traps, bio-pest control
Isrel Fig, Mulberry, Starwberry, Blackberry, Custard
measures and the bio-diversity balance & control the pest
Apple, Lololikka(Flacourtia Jangomas), Gooseberry,
attack and diseases. Castings of chicks, ducks, quail and
Star Gooseberry (Otaheite Gooseberry), Ambazham
goat also support the soil enrichment.
(Spondias mombin), Pear, Anjili Tree (Artocarpus
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: hirustus), Rubber Trees, Teak, Bamboo (10 Types),
Passion Fruit (04 Types), Plantain(26 varieties).
yyWhen she got married in an agriculturist family, she too
started developing interest in farming and started using yyShe also has a collection of varieties of medicinal plants
her time and keeping herself remaining busy in the farm. which include: Tulsi (Holy Basil) Brahmi, Bhadrakshka,
Smt. Swapna took first formal training on Agriculture at Chittamruth (Giloy), Panikoorkka(Patta Ajwain),
Palakkad. Kacholam(Galanga), Vicks thulsi, Vayamb(Sweet Flag),
Kizhar nelli(Bhoomi Aamlakhi), Karinochi(Nirgundi),
yyParticipation in varies trainings conducted by Agriculture Arutha(Sudap), Durian.
department & Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), exposure
visits help her to update her knowledge and current yyRecently Swapna and her husband bought 70 cents(approx.
information. 0.7 acre) paddy land and started natural paddy cultivation
to make a trial on rice farming. They started cultivatin of

7
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

yyA glimpse of Total Income and Expenditure of the farm :

S. No Sources of Income Income Particulars of Expenditure Expenditure
1 Nutmeg(1300 plants) 705200 Electricity 28,000
2 Arecanut(300 plants) 671500 Poultry manure 28,000
3 Coconut(210 plants) 440600 Farm yard manure 14,000
4 Fish 120000 Feed for fish 24,000
5 Others Banana, Arrowroot, Yam, Turmeric, Cardamam, Cocoa) 183400 Salary(12000*12) 1,44,000
6 Wages(320*350) 1,12,000
7 Coconut, Arecanut Harvesting 26,000
cost
8 Miscellaneous cost 30,000
Total 2120700 4,06,000

Total income: Rs.2120700/- Total Expenditure: Rs.406000/-

Profit: Rs.1714700/- Area : 4.75 Acres.
Net pofit per acre: Rs.360989/-

food crops in 7 acres of leased land to satisfy their farming yyHer family’s dedication to farming is also reflected in the
craze. Their life and massive works had been reflected fact that her son is studying in 2 year B.sc(Horticulture)
nd

in articles in dailies & journals including ‘The Hindu, in Horticultural College and Research Institute,
Malayala Manorama, Kerala Kumudhi, Mathrubhoomi, Periyakulam under Tamilnadu Agriculture University.
Rubber Magzine
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION :
IMPORTANCE TO OTHER FARMERS : yyApart from the State Government Best Farmer Women
yySmt. Swapna attributes her success to the technical award ‘KARSHAKATHILAKAM’ 2018, She conquered
inputs provided by Agriculture Department, KVK and other prestigious awards & recognitions such as,
encouragement and support of her husband and sons Alan
yyKARSHAKASREE AWARD 2018 –instituted by
and Kevin. Malayala Manorama
yySmt Swapana has also mobilized farmers to form farmers yyKATHIR AWARD 2018 - Presented by Kairali People
organizations and is the Director of Polima Farmers Television
Producer Company. Swapna wholeheartedly shares her
experience and information in workshops and training yyDESHABHIMANI JAIVA KARSHAKA AWARD 2016
presented by Deshabimani newspaper
programmes to help others get motivated.
yyFarm gate marketing of fresh pesticide-free vegetables yyVOCATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD 2019 by
Rotary International and many other.
and fruits have high demand which is giving an
encouragement to other farmers to follow.

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 2020-21

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH
7 INTEGRATED FARMING
SYSTEM
Smt. PC Lalrinliani Village: Lawngtlai, L-III, State: Mizoram

INTRODUCTION: labour and their efficiency resulting in higher yield and

production at farm.
yySmt. PC Lalrinliani is a 58-year-old woman farmer
from Lawngtlai (L-III) of Mizoram State. Today, as an yyApart from family consumption Mrs Lalrinliani earns Rs
independent farmer, she is happy to provide her family 90,100 from integrated farming of vegetable-piggery-
with nutritious food and provide employment opportunity poultry farming. She also earn Rs. 54,500 as a profit from
for women folks like her widow. her other farm activities.
yyEarlier Smt. PC Lalrinliani was a conventional farmer yySmt. Lalrinliani’s main aim of farming is to provide
having 1 Ha of land, practicing an aged-old traditional nutrition for her family and generation of employment for
farming to support her family and growing local poor Women getting employeed in her farm.
Vegetables like beans, pumpkins, tomatoes, ginger etc. yyLand supplements her with most of the family nutritional
Due to little knowledge on new agriculture technology needs apart from selling the surplus at local markets.
andpractices, she could not have good harvest inspite of
her hard work and had to struggle a lot to make ends meet.
yyIntegrated farming system produce a variety of produce
i.e different types of vegetables and pulses, meat etc.
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: IMPACT ON OTHER FARMERS:
yyKrshi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Lawngtlai interacted with yyShe is an entrepreneur with a happy family. In addition
Mrs PC Lalrinliani during the early years of 2016. she has started teaching person like her i.e. widows who
yyKVK Lawngtlai gave her training on the aspects of are engaged in agriculture activities and have succeeded
Integrated Farming System of Vegetables with Piggery in turning 3 women (widow) from Mampui village and
and poultry (Broilers and Layers), Improved varieties of 5 (widow) from Lawngtlai L-III village into progressive
vegetables and Mushroom cultivation. women farmers till 2019.
yyDuring the year 2019-2020, apart from the ongoing yyHer life story has inspired many women within the district.
Integrated farming system. cultivation of High Yield She has dealt her life in a challenging manner from being
Variety soybean, Lentil and Rajmah under National a woman as a wife of a Husband who was suffering from
Food Security Mission (NFSM) Cluster Front Line chronic illness and could not do any tough works and later
Demonstration (CFLD), she took up Cultivation of passed away leaving her with 4 children, she struggled
Groundnut under Polythene Mulch which was a grand and raised her children and gave proper education till
success. graduation. She hired women (widows) labour to work
yyAfter adoption of New Agriculture Technologies from in her farm and teaches whatever she learned from KVK
KVK Lawngtlai, farm economics changed dramatically Lawngtlai. Many widows became a bread earner in the
with utilisation of improved tools and equipments, family under her influence.
quality seeds with improved package of practices, yyShe became a role model for women farmers within
advanced technological know how and back stopping Lawngtlai areas. She was felicitated at the celebration of
led to reduction of drudgery, improvement in women Mahila Kisan Diwas organised by KVK Lawngtlai.

9
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

INTEGRATED FARMING
8 SYSTEM- A GATEWAY OF
SUCCESS FOR FARM WOMAN
Ms. Amarjeet Kaur, Vill: Adhoyi, Block- Barara, Dist: Ambala, Haryana,
Contact - 7015876379

INTRODUCTION: yyAlong with using improved varieties she also practices

seed treatment followed by treatment with bio fertilizers
yyMs. Amarjeet is a graduate, aged 32 years with 13 years and resource conservation technologies for getting high
of farming experience. She is a well-known progressive
woman farmer in Adhoyi village and agriculture is the returns and reduce cost of cultivation.
main source of income to fulfil the basic requirement yySuccess in integrated farming system with milk from
of her family. As a family member, she used to work on dairy unit, use of vermi compost, vermi wash in Crop
her father’s family farm part time but when her father production, Bamboo stalking in cucurbit crops and
suffered with paralysis in 2007, she took the full charge growing of high yielding fodder varieties.
of managing her family farm.
yyKeeping in view of water scarcity she switched over to
yyShe possesses 3.4 ha (8.5 acre) land with irrigation facility. kharif Maize cultivation in replace of rice crop in some
She has small dairy unit with two Buffaloes. She has all area
the modern machinery on her farm including Submersible
Tubewell, Tractor, M.B. Plough, Disc Harrow, Happy yyIn view of changing climatic scenario and excess use of
chemical fertilizers and pesticides in crops, she shifted to
Seeder, DSR etc. She is very active on Social Media also
and has her own Website (https://www.facebook.com/ organic farming two years back and received technical
amarjitkaur.adhoi), and You tube channel (lady farmer guidance from KVK team under Parampragat Krishi
Amarjit Kaur[Adhoi]). Vikas Yojna of Department of Agriculture, Cooperation
and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and
TRAINING AND MOTIVATION: Farmers Welfare.
yyShe used to grow traditional crops on her farm with yyBy all these crop and livestock enterprises she is earning a
average yields of various crop and animal enterprises handsome net income of Rs. 6.7 lakhs per annum.
before coming in contact with Extension functionaries of
Agriculture Department and Subject Matter Specialist of CONTRIBUTING FACTORS:
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Ambala. Thereafter, she yyBasically, her activeness, sincerity and hard-working
was exposed to latest improved new technical knowledge nature has contributed in her success in addition to
of agriculture and her attitude changed towards agriculture technical guidance from experts from KVK and State
and she was motivated to take agriculture as agri-business agriculture department officials. With those of her
with adoption of all latest technologies for improving qualities and timely technical advice and proper timely
production and productivity of her farm. She attended implementation has transformed her life which she never
various training programmes at KVK Ambala and availed thought.
advisory services from KVK team and experts from
Agriculture department. AWARDS/RECOGNITION:
ACHIEVEMENTS: yyShe has received many Awards at district level by Hon’ble
Ministers, Hon’ble MLA (Ambala City), Sh. Aseem Goel,
yyShe practices various crop enterprises mainly with three Agriculture Department, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ambala,
cropping patterns on her farm i) Rice-Wheat-Moong, ii) Rotary Club and Prayas Sewa Sanasthan, Barara etc.
Sugarcane+Onion-Ratoon, and iii) Potato-Onion-Fodder.
With the technical guidance, she is practicing Resource IMPORTANCE FOR OTHER FARMERS:
Conservation Technologies (RCTs), Soil Testing and
uses improved variety of seeds all the crops viz; Wheat,
yyShe is recognized as a progressive Farm woman & Master
Trainer for farmers in the district & women are following
Chickpea, Mungbean, Mustard. her steps.

10
 2020-21

INTEGRATED FARMING AND

9 KITCHEN GARDENING

Smt. Hemalatha. M. C W/o Shivanna. M. E. Village: Mikkere, Post: Kirugavalu,

District : Mandya, State Karnataka, Contact details : 6361562597, 9480043257

INTRODUCTION: yyLivestock rearing, poultry farming and fodder

Management
yySmt. Hemalatha owns two acres irrigated land and has
taken into lease another 03 acres of land. On these 05 yyVermi compost preparation
acres of land she grows field crops and also fruits and
vegetables; She also rears sericulture, livestock, poultry
yyBullock cart operated by single cow
and produces vermicompost. yyKitchen Gardening
TRAINING:
yyProduction of high quantity of Milk and supplying
directly to Jersy Dairy without Middlemen
yyShe is a beneficiary of Agricultural Technology
yyShe contributes her success to Integrated Farming
Management Agency(ATMA), National Food Security
System approach by including almost all complementary
Mission(NFSM), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
enterprises.
Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and received
training on various subjects in agriculture and allied yyShe is marketing vermi compost produced to local
sectors implemented from both State and Central Schemes farmers and nurseries and milk produced directly to Jersy
in the State. Milk Dairy Gowdagere, She also rears Silkworm and
sells them at local cocoon market and effectively utilizes
ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES Dairy and sericulture waste for the production of Vermi
AND ACHIEVEMENTS: compost which are proving to be an example for the
farmers natural resources utilization in the best manner.
yyShe is practicing the following innovative technology and
practices:
RECOGNITION & AWARDS:
yySystem of Rice Intensification (SRI) method of rice
cultivation. 2015 – “Karnatakada Kanmani Rajya Prashasthi”

yyMulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing 2015 – “Taluka Level Best Youth Women Progressive Farmer”

yyVegetable cultivation 2014 – “Dialogue on Importance on Integrated Farming”

organized by Prasar Bharathi, Mysore.
yyFodder cultivation

Income-Expenditure statement:
S. No. Unit Yield/ Month Rate (Rs.) Monthly Gross Monthly Monthly net
income (Rs.) expenditure (Rs.) income (Rs.)
1. Livestock rearing and Dairy 70lits/day 30/lit 63000 37800 25200
2. Vermicomposting 5 tons/ Month 7/kg 35000 15000 20000
3. Mulberry Cultivation and 100kg 250/kg 25000 10000 15000
silkworm Rearing
4. Kitchen Gardening and Poultry - - - 5000
and Duck rearing
Monthly Total Income (Rs.) 65,200/-

11
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

INTEGRATED FARMING
10 SYSTEM: A SUCCESS STORY

Smt. Kamalamma W/o Nagaraju Mayaganahalli Kasaba Hobli, Village Mayaganahalli,

Post Mayaganahalli, Taluka Ramanagar, District Ramnagar, Karnataka, Ph:9686044629

INTRODUCTION: yyPoly house – Production of Capsicum, Tomato & beans

production
yySmt. Kamalamma owns 7 acres of land out of which
Irrigated land is 2.20 acre and Dry land is 5.00 acres. She yyMulberry cultivation and silkworm rearing
uses this 7 acres land as per Integrated Farming System yyLivestock rearing, poultry farming and fish Farming in
pattern for field crops, cultivation of fruits and vegetables, the farm pond
area for poly house/ sericulture/ livestock/ poultry/ farm
pond and is owning a diversified enterprise.
yyOrganic – Banana cultivation
yyMango and coconut cultivation and its marketing
TRAINING: yyBio-digester unit
yyShe is a beneficiary of Krishi Bhagya Yojana, Agricultural yyFodder cultivation
Technology Management Agency(ATMA), National
Food Security Mission(NFSM), Mechanization and has
yyBunds protected with fruit crops and forest crops
attended many schematic trainings. yyMarketing in local shandies and middleman for main
market
ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES yyShe also export Capsicum to International market like
AND ACHIEVEMENTS: Israel, Singapore and Arab countries.
yyHer field is a showcase of various innovative and new ACHIEVEMENTS:
technologies which includes:
2016 – Canara Bank Best Farm Women Awardee
yyHybrid paddy-through System of Rice Intensification
(SRI) method and mechanization for irrigation 2016-17 – District Level Best Farmer Awardee
yyPaired row in Ragi cultivation (Ragi+Tur) 2013 - Ramnagar District Best Farmer Award

Income and expenditure from agriculture and allied sectorS :

S. Crops/Activities Area in acre & Season Yield (kg.) Total Income (Rs.) Expenditure (Rs.) Profit
No. qty in No. (Rs.)
1 Capsicum 0.5 Kharif 15000 870000 200000 670000
2 Tomato 0.5 Summer 1500 30000 15000 15000
3 Cowpea 0.5 Summer 1800 35000 5000 30000
4 Mango 3 Summer 10000 500000 100000 400000
7 Beans 0.5 Kharif 200 5000 1000 4000
10 Coconut 50 Nos. Annual 2560 Nos 50000 10000 40000
12 Fish farming 60X100 feet Annual 120 12000 3000 9000
14 Paddy 1 Kharif 3000 50000 20000 30000
16 Papaya 1000 Nos Annual 25000 175000 25000 150000
18 Cows (HF) 4 Nos Annual 10000 Ltr. 320000 100000 220000
20 Vermi compost 30X5X4 feet Annual 9000 27000 4000 23000
22 Local hen and Giriraj 60 Nos Annual   12000 4000 8000
Total       2086000 427000 1595000

12
 2020-21

A SUCCESSFUL INTEGRATED
11 FARMING MODEL

Smt. Lekesh Bai, Address -Thanabodi Village, Thanabodi Block, Uttar Bastar

INTRODUCTION: Change in Net Income:

yySmt. Lekesh Bai lives in Thanabodi Village under yy2010-11 – Rs. 1,11,800/ annum
Thanabodi Block of Uttar Bastar Kanker District. She
yy2016-17 - Rs. 7,46,650/annum
is practicing Integrated Farming System in her farm by
cultivation of crop, fish cum duck, improved dairy, goat IMPORTANCE FOR FARMERS:
and poultry rearing She is now a source of inspiration for all the women and other
farmers of the locality who are learning scientific practices for
TRAINING: improving their livelihood. Approximately 850 no of farmers
yyShe got training on Integrated Farming System and and farm women visited her farm during previous years.
allied activities from Krishi Vigyan Kendra and State
Agriculture Department on various occasions under AWARD & RECOGNITION:
different schemes.
(1) She received Farmer Fellowship Award 2016 provided by
ACHIVEMENTS: IGKV
(2) Innovative farmers Award by ICAR Research Complex
yyProduction of vegetables through Drip irrigation with
polythene mulching for Eastern Region, Patna 2018
(3) Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Krishi Antyodhyay Puruskar
yyImproved dairy and making dairy products i.e. Ghee, 2019 (Zonal)
Paneer
yyPracticing Improved goat farming
yyPoultry farming
yyFish cum duck

13
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

WOMAN FARMER STRIDES

12 AHEAD WITH SMALL
HOLDING
Smt. Vishakha Vithoba Velip, Village & PO: Barcem, District: South Goa , Goa-403703

INTRODUCTION: yyIn Kharif season, she also cultivates Hilly vegetables such
Khola Chillies, Cucurbits, Kate Konga (lesser Yams),
yyQuepem is one of the talukas of Goa with Agriculture Zad Konga (Chinese Potato), Colocasia Suran (Elephant
backbone. Most of the people are directly or indirectly
Foot Yam) and turmeric with proper crop management
dependent on agriculture and the farming activities.
practices. She sells the dry Kholla chillies at super stores
Various types of crops cultivation are being taken up by
such Borkars and Delfinos.
the farmers of Quepem. Women farmers mostly carry out
the vegetable cultivation both in Kharif and Rabi season yyEarlier she used to raise chilli nursery seedlings directly on
along with Paddy cultivation in Kharif season. ground. But currently, she raises Hybrid chilli seedlings in
seed trays. She cultivates Hybrid Chilli varieties such as
yySmt. Vishaka Vithoba Velip lives with her husband and Nisha and Sitara in Rabi season and harvest green chillies
has one son and two daughters. Her husband is a teacher and sells them at Goa State Horticulture Cooperation.
by profession who supports and helps her in carrying out
agricultural activities. She owns 6.5 acres of land. She is yyShe has set up a vermicompost unit and the compost
is being used by her for growing vegetable crops. In
an active and self motivated farm woman who cultivates
addition to this, she is also cultivating hybrid marigold
Paddy in kharif season and Vegetable cultivation in both for loose flower purpose. She sells herself some of the
Kharif and Rabi seasons. She cultivates paddy in an area vermicompost, local vegetables, snap melons, flowers on
of about 1.5 ha and also cultivate vegetable crops on 1000 road side local market.
m2 area under hilly condition.
yyShe has also setup 5 Bee colonies in her farm.
TRAINING MOTIVATION: yyShe does value addition processing of locally available
agriculture produces such as Jackfruit chips, Kokum
yyFrom the year 2017, she participated in the various training solam, Jackfruit and mango satta, Chilli powder.
programmes such as Improved method/practices of paddy
and vegetable cultivation, vermicomposting, virgin yyShe prepares coconut broom and sells them in local
coconut oil preparation, bee keeping, vacuum packing market which gives an additional income.
of raw Jackfruit, value addition in locally available fruits yyFrom the above all sources, she earns approximately Rs.
and vegetables organized by Zonal Agriculture Office, 2.00 lakhs per annum.
Quepem.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION:
yyShe is pursuing cultivation and other activities in
consultations with the officials. yyShe has been selected to participate in village level,
district level and state level exhibitions organized by
ACHIEVEMENTS: Agriculture Department. She has also been selected to
participate in exposure visit within district, state and also
yyShe has purchased farm machineries by availing
inter-state visits organized by Department of Agriculture.
assistance from Department of Agriculture, Goa under
the scheme Mechanization in Agriculture. She has carried
out the farm activities more easily and efficiently by
IMPORTANCE TO OTHER FARMERS:
minimizes the labour cost through farm machinering the yyWith the technical guidance and schematic benefits from
as Mini Tiller, Weed cutter, water pump, sprayer pump the Agriculture Department, she has transformed herself
and electric tray dryer etc. into a progressive farmer.

yyShe adopted System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method yyShe has motivated and inspired many women of SHG’s
to grow paddy in the field. of Quepem taluka in carrying out farming as a business
activity.

14
 2020-21

SUCCESS STORY ON
13 PERFORMANCE OF
TRANSPLANTED RED GRAM
Smt. B. Rami Reddy , Dist: YSR Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, PIN- 516390.
Contact No.: 9441739553.

INTRODUCTION : October, resulted in heavy weed growth and the farmer

felt a bit difficult to take up inter-cultivation and finally
yySmt. B. Rami Reddy is a progressive minded woman. She resorted for herbicide spray with Glyphosate @ 8ml/litre,
has been doing agriculture from the last 10 years. She
is ready to take innovative ideas in agriculture. She had which resulted in crop – weed competition during critical
been cultivating red gram by broadcasting method which stages of growth. This is a set- back for the trial during
provided very poor yield. the season.
yyThis method of transplanting in Red gram coupled with
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: irrigation with drip and fertilization resulted in higher
yyShe was selected as one of the beneficiary for transplanting yields.
method of Redgram under ATMA Demonstration yyThis method of transplanting can be promoted and
programme in 2017-18. net returns to the farmers can be increased, if a policy
yyShe has participated in trainings on nursery raising, plant decision is taken for premium price, as announced by the
protection and transplanting in main field. government this year.
yyShe was immensely motivated to care for the new method IMPORTANCE TO OTHER FARMERS:
of Redgram with enthusiasm even it was completely new
method. yyOfficials from Agriculture Department and scientists
visited her field and appreciated the farmer for her hard
ACHIEVEMENTS: work and appealed to other farmers to follow her attitude
towards innovative Agricultural approach.
yyDuring the cultivation, ATMA staff and Officers of the
Agriculture Department provided her the Technical yyDue to the more profitability of the crop, many of the
knowledge and pest and disease control measures in farmers in the area have shown interest in cultivating
Redgram field. transplanted Redgram in the next season.

LEARNING FROM THE DEMONSTRATION:

yy50 Farmers from adjoining areas visited her Red
gram plot and inspired to follow the practice in next
yyThere is potential for transplanting method in Red gram, season.
if taken up in good soils with high yielding varieties
compared to traditional varieties like LRG-30, LRG-41 AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS:
etc. yyShe received award from J.D.A. at the K.K.A. Meeting
yyDue to heavy rains in the month of September and conducted in Pulivendula Division.

15
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

BLACK GRAM CULTIVATION

14 WITH NEW TECHNOLOGY

Smt.Tapasi Patra, Village& P.O: - Ruppur, Block-Bolpur Santiniketan,

Dist- Birbhum, State: West Bengal

INTRODUCTION : TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION ADOPTED:

yySmt.Tapasi Patra and several other practicing farmer and yyFarmers of Ruppur village generally grow Kali-50 (old
farm women of Ruppur village, Bolpur, Santiniketan variety) variety of black gram. They do not adopt any
had undergone skill development training programmes new technology and they have no idea about use of any
on crop diversification through introduction of pulses micronutrients and herbicides.
during Kharif season 2019-20 organized by Rathindra
yyThey hardly apply any fertilizers for black gram
KVK, Palli Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan in cultivation.
Birbhum District of West Bengal.
yyScientists of KVK, Birbhum motivated the farmers to
SOURCE OF MOTIVATION: adopt the latest technology of Black gram cultivation
during kharif and accordingly conducted the CFLD in
yySmt. Patra after skill development training programmes the village during 2019-20. The following practices were
had shown interest on pulse cultivation during kharif
advocated and inputs provided by the KVK
instead of kharif paddy.
yyShe encouraged other fellow farmers to become the yyUse of seeds of Improved Variety WBU-109 @ 30 kg/ha
partner farmers in the Cluster Front Line Demonstration yyMethod of seed sowing: - Broadcasting
Programme on Kharif Pulses viz. Black gram, 2019-20 yyApplication of herbicides Pendimethalin @ 3 L / ha at
conducted by KVK, Birbhum in their village. 1- 3 days after sowing.
yyFoliar Spray of Micro-Nutrients: B-20 @ 2 gm. / L of
water at 25 and 45 days after sowing.
ACHIEVEMENTS:
Local Check Demonstration
Varity Yield (q/ ha) BC Ratio Variety Yield (q/ ha) BC Ratio Change in Yield (%)
Kali-50 5.6 1.94 WBU-109 12.75 4.16 127

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS: yyThe shiny black colour of the seeds of WBU-109 is

very much attractive and fetches higher remuneration in
yyThe demonstrated variety WBU-109 is a short duration market.
and takes 15-20 days less than the existing variety i.e.
Kali-50.
INFLUENCE ON THE OTHER FARMERS:
yyAverage no. of branches of the demonstrated variety was yyThe demonstration plots attracted the attention of many
also more by 6-8 numbers than the Kali-50 variety. The
farmers for its good crop stand and a bumper harvest. It
number of pods per plant was 60-65 in the demonstrated
is expected that people would adopt this improved/new
variety whereas in the case of the existing variety, it was
technology to boost pulse production.
only 30-35 in numbers.

16
 2020-21

ADOPTION OF INTEGRATED
15 METHOD OF BLACKGRAM
CULTIVATION
Smt. Sobhagini Bhutia, Kusasingha, Banarpal, Angul, State: Odisha

INTRODUCTION: TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION ADOPTED:

yySmt. Sobhagini Bhutia is a progressive woman farmer yySeed treatment (carboxin + thiram @3g/kg of seed before
and ready to adopt new technology of pulse production. sowing); application of herbicide (Imazethapyr @1 L/
She had undergone number of pulse production training ha at 20 DAS); plant protection measures (application
programme conducted by KVK, Angul. She is motivated of Prophenophos + Cypermethrin@1 L /ha) against red
other farm women in her village to adopt the integrated hairy caterpillar and Thiomethoxam @ 125g/ha against
method of pulse production. white fly (YMV).

SOURCE OF MOTIVATION: CONTRIBUTING FACTORS:

yyMrs. Bhutia, had been growing pulses like blackgram yySeed treatment, Line sowing, weed management and
for a long period. However, the production was very timely application of pest control measures led to higher
low. After undergoing technology development training yield as compare to farmers practice.
programmes at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Angul, she has
yyTimely availability of seed and plant protection measures
shown interest in adopting the integrated method of pulse can make the technology more successful.
cultivation.

ACHIEVEMENTS:
Performance of technology vis-à-vis farmers practice
Used Practice Yield (q/ha) Gross cost (Rs/ha) Gross income (Rs/ha) Net income (Rs/ha) BC ratio
Farmers practices 4.54 14930 16798 1868 1.12
Demonstration 7.08 22540 26196 6656 1.29
% Increase in yield 55% - - - -

17
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

ADOPTION OF HIGH YEILDING

16 MUSTARd FOR HIGHER
PRODUCTION
Smt. Jhumuri Sahu, Vill: Phulasarapalli, GP: Chadheiapalli, Block: Aska,District: Ganjam,
State: Odisha

INTRODUCTION: at 20 DAS @1 Litre/ha.

yySmt. Sahu, is a progressive farm woman and successful in yyBasal application of Boron @ 1kg/ha
homestead poultry farming. She was interested in oilseed yySpray of plant protection chemicals like Thiamethoxam
cultivation as traditional cultivation of mustard was @ 150gram/ha for controlling Aphids infestation.
hampered by various factors including aphid infestation.
yySpinosad@150 ml/ha for controlling Sawfly & leaf miner.
yyShe attended technology training programme on oilseeds yyCarbandazim + Mancozeb@ 1kg/ha for controlling Stem
production provided by KVK, Ganjam. rot & Rust diseases.
SOURCE OF MOTIVATION: CONTRIBUTING FACTORS:
yyWith technical knowledge acquired from the KVK
yyUttara variety of mustard is moderately resistant to white
personnel and desire to obtain a higher production of rust, downy and powdery mildew which contributed
mustard in the locality, she was motivated to participate 9000 kg yield/ha. The recommended packages of practice
in CFLD Oilseeds programme. The training provided ensured better yield due to success in controlling the
her motivation to adopt all the practices judiciously as weeds and aphid population. It has long siliqua (5.2 cm)
advised and see herself the result of good efforts. with 13-18 seeds/siliqua on an average.
TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION ADOPTED: INFLUENCE ON OTHER FARMERS:
yyHigh yielding variety of mustard:- Uttara, yyFarmers of the village were convinced that adoption of
yyFertilizer application-NPK: 60:25:25 kg/ha modern technology and judicious use of all required
yyApplication of post emergent herbicide-Quizalofos ethyl inputs.

ACHIEVEMENTS:
Performance of technology vis-à-vis Local check (Increase in productivity and returns)
Used Practice Yield (q/ha) Gross cost (Rs/ha) Gross income (Rs/ha) Net income (Rs/ha) BC ratio
Farmers practices 6.2 15500 26040 10540 1.68
Demonstration 9.0 18400 37800 19500 2.05
% Increase in yield 45.16

18
 2020-21

ADOPTION OF HIGH YIELDING

17 GROUNDNUT, VARiety
DHARANI
Ms. Rashmita Sahu, Vill:. Barida,GP:. Barida, Block: Kabi Surya Nagar,
Dist: Ganjam, Odisha

INTRODUCTION: yyUse of HYV Groundnut, Var. Dharani, 75 kg/

ha
yyMs. Rashmita Sahu, is a small farmer but very keen to
adopt new agricultural practices. She participated in yySeed Treatment by Cloropyriphos
many training programme organized by KVK Ganjam on yyMethod of seed sowing: - Line Sowing
pulse and oilseeds production technologies.
yyApplication of Thiamethoxam @ 150 gram/ha for sucking
pests, Hexaconazole@ 1 litre/ha. for Tikka disease
SOURCE OF MOTIVATION:
yyAfter undergoing a number of training programmes on CONTRIBUTING FACTORS:
pulse and oilseeds production technologies, Ms. Rashmita
Sahu had shown interest in cultivating groundnut with yyUsing HYV groundnut variety Dharani which is drought
tolerant, having uniform maturity, attractive pods and
new High Yielding Variety (HYV) and improved package
moderate stature.
of practices as guided by Scientists of KVK, Ganjam.
KVK scientists helped her in all technical aspects to grow yyAdoption of recommended packages of practices ensured
Groundnut, Var. Dharani and provided other inputs. better yield

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION ADOPTED: INFLUENCE ON OTHER FARMERS:

yyTraining provided by KVK, Ganjam convinced her that yyFarmers in the village developed interest in scientific
if all inputs are properly used and the field is looked after cultivation of groundnut with good High Yielding variety
well, she would certainly succeed. and proper technology.

yyShe used the following inputs as advised and supplied.

ACHIEVEMENTS:
Performance of technology vis-à-vis Local check (Increase in productivity and returns)
Used Practice Yield (q/ha) Gross cost (Rs/ha) Gross income (Rs/ha) Net income (Rs/ha) BC ratio
Farmers practice 22.4 35,000 67,200 32,200 1.92
Demonstration 31.8 43.200 95,400 52,200 2.20
% Increase in yield 41.96

19
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

CROP DIVERSIFICATION:
18 SUCCESS story of a
WOMAN FARMER
Smt. Sangeeta Walmik Sangle, Village: Satyagaon, Post :Mukhed, Taluka : Yeola,
District: Nashik, State: Maharashtra

INTRODUCTION: shade net.

yySmt. Sangeeta Walmik Sangle is a small farmer and yyShe sells her produces at various markets namely
holding 2 hectare land. She has a family of 6 members. Thanpada Kalyan Mahadev Complex at Thane, Sant
Shiromani Shree Sawata Mali Shetkari Athwade bazaar,
yyShe is the leader of Rajhans Krushi Vidnyan Mandal at Mumbai and taluka level markets.
Satygaon. The group has 20 members.
yyBy the inspiration from Dairy farming Training by
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: ATMA, she purchased 4 cows and get monthly income
yyInitially ATMA, Nashik helped in group formation and Rs. 18,000/-. She is also earning Rs. 1.40 lakh from
motivation. After getting training on improved technology Drumstick (4 tonnes @Rs.35/kg) and Rs. 1.5 lakh from
in Guava and Pomegranate. She also got training on Dairy Red pumpkin (yield 15 tonnes).
Farming from ATMA, Nasik.
RECOGNITION:
ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES yyShe has been awarded with Krushthon Yuva Sanman-2018
AND ACHIEVEMENTS: (Innovative Women Farmer).
yyAt present her cropping pattern includes cultivation yyShe received Shetkari Gut Nyondani Award by ATMA,
of Guava with Red Pumpkin and Pomegranate with Nasik.
Drumstick. yyShe also received Krishi Gaurav Award by Jai Kishan
yyShe also grows Onion, Grapes and Vegetables under Farmers Forum.

20
 2020-21

HYBRID MAIZE CULTIVATION:

19 SUCCESS story of A FEMALE
HEADED FARM FAMILY
Smt. Yangden Lepcha, Village Lingthem, District North Sikkim, Contact No.8159943703

INTRODUCTION: ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES

yySmt. Yangden Lepcha, w/o Lt. Kenjong Lepcha, is a AND ACHIEVEMENTS:
progressive farmer of Lingthem village which is situated yyShe received 15 kg Hybrid Maize Seed (Variety: C -1921)
at 3750-4200 feet above Mean Sea Level. from Food Security and Agricultural Development
yyShe has 4 members in her family. In spite of death of Department for a demo plot of 1.5 acre of land.
her husband, she is a successful progressive farmer due yyShe also received vermicompost to meet the manurial
to her dedication and hardworking nature. She practices requirement. She took the scientific management from
integrated farming. sowing to harvesting. Seeds were sown at 20 cm distance
yyShe has keen interest on adoption of new technology. But between seed to seed and 45 cm row to row.
she had been doing cultivation with traditional method. yyBecause of the interventions taken, she could get an
She is a member of Self Help Group. increased yield of 24.35/ha quintals as against 13.0 q/ha
in traditional method.
TRAINING & MOTIVATION:
yyThe grain quality was good, healthy and attractive which
yyShe has been aided in her venture from various bodies fetched Rs.35 per kg against Rs. 25 per kg of her previous
and organistions like ICAR-KVK, ATMA, Agriculture, harvest.
horticulture and Animal Husbandry Departments.
yyIn total, she earned Rs.77,225/- from her Hybrid Maize
yyATMA, North Sikkim observed her activities and initiated crop against Rs.24,500/- from her previous crop of
a demo on maize cultivation based on participatory made traditional local maize.
and offered necessary training.
yyShe was trained and motivated by KVK scientists. She IMPORTANCE TO FARMERS:
used the service of Kisan Call Centre for getting the yyThe success of Mrs. Yangden Lepcha has motivated the
answers’ of queries related to agriculture & allied sector. villagers to adopt hybrid maize cultivation. She shared
the knowledge and skill gain through training with fellow
farmers.

21
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

SUCCESS STORY ON BROAD

20 CASTING/DIRECT SOWING IN
PADDY
Smt Rupireddy Laxmi W/o, R.Thirupathi Reddy, Village:-Kondapalkala, District:
Karimnaga,State: Telangana, Mobile No:9490535102

INTRODUCTION: takes a time lag. The time for growing nursery and the
expenditure involved is also saved.
yySmt Rupireddy Laxmi is having 8.0 acres of paddy land
with well irrigation. yyTo overcome weed problem, the farmer had sprayed
weedicide Assert @ 500 ml/acre. Timely sowing leads to
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: less pest infestation. In this method (Direct Broadcasting),
yyShe got training under ATMA and was offered the the total labour cost is reduced due to no nursery raising
Demonstration on 1.0 acre of land during Kharif, 2018. and transplanting. Yield obtained per acre is 29 Quintals
Demonstration on Broadcasting/Direct sowing method in (72.5 Quintals per hectare).
paddy was carried out her field with the help of ATMA yyThe farmer got net profit of 1,34,500 per hectare by
during the Kharif-2018-19,. selling paddy @ Rs.2200 per Quintal. The farmer is very
yyShe used 15 kg seeds of paddy variety ‘KNM-118’ satisfied and willing to expand the area by this method in
(Kunaram Sannalu) per acre and broadcasted directly in the next season.
the main field without raising nursery.
IMPORTANCE TO FARMERS:
ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES yyDemonstration on Broadcasting/Direct sowing in paddy
AND ACHIEVEMENTS: carried out in Rupireddy’s field has motivated the farmers
of the village to adopt this method in their fields too.
yyShe realised that by this method the plants will not be
subjected to stress such as being pulled out from the soil yyThe cost saving concept and lessening drudgery has
and re-establishing fine rootlets in the main field which attracted the farmers.

22
 2020-21

NUTRITIONAL SECURITY
21 THROUGH BACKYARD LAYER
POULTRY FARMING
Ms. Chupen Phom, Village: Hukphang, District: Longleng, State:Nagaland

INTRODUCTION: yyThe average body weight at 4th week was recorded

485±150 g per bird that increased up to 3095± 61.9g at
yyIn Longleng district, majority of the farmer rear
20th week.
indigenous poultry birds only due to non-availability of
improved varieties of chicks in the market. yyThe poultry birds was reared up to 32 weeks only.
yyLongleng district enjoys monsoon type of climate with a yyCommercial ration were given with additional supplement
minimum temperature of 10° C in winter and a maximum of feeds like maize, paddy grains and green leafy
of 28° C in summer. vegetables.
yyThe weather is well suited for rearing improved varieties yyThe income was mainly from the sale of live birds and
of poultry birds in the district. eggs at the rate of Rs.350 per kg and Rs. 8 per piece
respectively.
KVK INTERVENTIONS: yyThe net return from the sale of culled live birds and eggs
yyTaking into consideration the potential of poultry rearing is Rs.91640 with B:C ratio of 1:1:66.
in Longleng district, KVK conducted training programme
on poultry farming management during the month of May Particulars Gross Gross Net return B:C
income (Rs.) cost (Rs.) (Rs.) ratio
2019.
Sale from 91640 55000 36640 1:1.66
yyInterested farmers were selected for rearing Srinidhi culled live
chicks at backyard. Inputs like day old chicks, medicines
birds and eggs
and feed materials were distributed to the trainees.
yyThe chicks were vaccinated as per schedule. MARKETING:
yyAmong trainees, Ms. Chupen Phom was more interested The culled birds and eggs were sold within the village and in
in rearing Srinidhi chicks for egg production.
local market.
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS:
IMPACT/HORIZONTAL SPREAD OF TECHNOLOGY:
yyCritical inputs like 100 numbers of Day old chicks, feeder, The meat and egg of Srinidhi bird were highly accepted by
drinker, antibiotic powder, liquid vitamin supplements
were provided. the public and her success has motivated the fellow villagers
especially the women folk to rear poultry as a means of
yyThe overall survival rate was 92 per cent up to 20th week. nutritional security and income generation.

23
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

DETERMINATION AND
22 COURAGE LEAD TO SUCCESS

Ms. Vevohulu Churhah, Village: Rukizu Colony, Pfutsero-797107, Dist:Phek, Nagaland,

Contact No.: 09862584232

INTRODUCTION: compounded feed twice a day following a brooding period

of 45 days. Ad libitum drinking water was provided. The
yyMs. Vevohulu Churhah hails from an agricultural family male female ratio was maintained at 1:9. Additional
at Rukizu Colony, Pfutsero. District Phek, Nagaland.
drakes were disposed/sold at 20 weeks.
yyShe spent her early childhood assisting her mother in doing
agricultural field for growing field crops & vegetables. yyWith counsel on proper feeding, housing and health care,
the duck matured and started laying late August 2018
yyPursuing her education at the same time, she graduated in that paved a way for generating income. Now, she is an
the year 2010 in the field of arts & literature. established entrepreneur and has plan to further expand
yyShe worked as an accountant in a private school till 2016. the enterprise considering the demand.
She decided to venture out with a dream of becoming a
successful agripreneur. ACHIEVEMENTS:
yyShe set up a piggery unit with 9 breeding sow and a boar yyMs. Vevohulu succeeded with her duckery venture. She
jointly with a friend by investing little financial resource. achieved a great success with Khaki Campbell ducks
A freak of fate, all her pigs were wiped out by an epidemic producing nearly 40,000 nos of eggs over a period of one
of classical swine fever. year and supplied to nearby market.
yy“Failure is the pillar of success” – Vevohulu believed it yyThe eggs were fresh, large size and palatable. The entire
and decided to try another enterprise. produce was sold in the local market due to high demand
of eggs and meat in the region.
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: yyThe eggs are sold at Rs 10/- per egg. The eggs have a
regular space in the tiffin of the school goers and farmers
yyKhaki Campbell is known to be the best layers of all
in the locality.
the domestic ducks. Khaki Campbell ducks lay about
280 to 300 eggs per year (more in the first 2 years) and, yyMs. Vevohulu Churhah was also trained in proper
with proper management, will continue to lay well for 4 cleaning, grading and packaging of eggs to get premium
- 5 years. Campbell’s lay their first eggs between 5 – 7 price in the market.
months of age. Khaki Campbells are excellent foragers yyThe eggs with proper labelling on nutritive values in an
and withstand cold, hot, humid, or arid climates very well. attractive 6 egg pack were marketed in outlets in pfutsero
yyIn January 2018, Ms. Vevohulu Churhah approached town.
KVK-Phek for guidance & technical assistance. yyMs. Vevohulu Churhah was highly benefitted from the
yyIn March 2018, she undertook duckery project with 200 duckery enterprise. She has also diversified her source of
of Khaki Campbell breed from KVK after attending a income. With the money earned, she started a livestock
scientific duck farming training organized by the KVK- feed, supplement and duckling supply outlet at Pfutsero
Phek. town to benefit the farmers of the district. With the
mounting business, she now employs 2 youths.
yyA total of 100 duckling were provided under NABARD
sponsored programme being implemented by the Krishi IMPACT ON OTHER FARMERS:
Vigyan Kendra(KVK) and she also contributed for
another 100 nos. yySeeing the success of Ms. Vevohulu many farmers have
started commercial duck production in the district.
yyRearing was done in free range system with night In addition to 18 commercial farmers, near about 40
shelter. The birds were supplemented with commercial backyard duck farmers have taken up the enterprise.

24
 2020-21

Details of Income from duckery enterprise is as below:

S No Intervention Amount Remark
01 Cost of Ducklings (200 ducklings X Rs 40/ducklings) Rs. 8000.00 100 ducking from NABARD Spon.
Scheme
02 Cost of feeds(upto 20 weeks) Rs 59,375.00 Commercial compound feed provided upto
12.5 kg/bird X 190 ducks X Rs 25/kg 20 weeks. 5% mortality is considered

03 Cost of feed(from 21st week to 76th Rs 139562.00 130 ducks and 15 drake were maintained
weeks) @ 100 gm/day after disposing 55 drakes
(385 days X 145 birds X 0.1 Kg/bird X Rs 25/kg)
04 Labour Nil Family labour
Medicine/Supplements Rs 5000 Calcium and mineral supplementation,
deworming
Total expenditure 211937.00
04 Sale of 55 additional drakes (Avg. 2kg) @ Rs 350/kg 38,500 130 female and 15 drake were maintained
after disposing 55 drakes
05 Sale of eggs(5 eggs/week/duck) for 64 weeks 3,95,200 Considering 5% reduction in sale due
(39520 eggs @Rs 10/egg) to egg cracks,misshapen eggs, home
consumption, gift etc
Total Income 433700.00
Net Income 221763.00
B:C 2.04

25
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

SCIENTIFIC INTERVENTION
23 IN DAIRY FARMING

Smt. S. Lakshmi, Village: P.Kosavapatty, Block: Vadamadurai, District: Dindidul,

State: Tamil Nadu

INTRODUCTION: was selected by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dindigul for

implementation of frontline demonstration on fodder
yySmt. Lakshmi is a small scale farmer with five acres of bank at farm level where she cultivated Cumbu Napier
land.
Grass (CO-5), Hamil Grass/Guinea Grass (CO-GG3)
yyBefore 2016 she was earning a sum of Rs.24000/- annually and Hedge Lucerne in 50 cents, 25 cents and 25 cents of
as net income from amla trees cultivated in three acres of land respectively and sprinklers were used for irrigation
land which was not sufficient for raising her family. purpose in the field to conserve water.
yyDue to low income she was unable to give good education
to her children. ACHIEVEMENTS:
yyShe was desperately looking for new opportunities to start yyCurrently, Smt. Lakshmi has 10 dairy animals and
a new enterprise in order to boost her annual income for became a successful dairy entrepreneur and producing 80
better living standards litres of milk per day which is sold to local vendors and
consumers in her village.
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: yyBy selling the milk at the rate of Rs.25 per litre, she is able
yyShe underwent a training programme on “Dairy Farming” to generate revenue of Rs. 60,000/- per month.
conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Dindigul,
Gandhigram Rural Institute, Gandhigram where she
yyFurthermore, she has employed 2 labourers in her farm
from the nearby villages to look after the daily routines of
learned about various aspects of dairy farming including the dairy enterprise.
selection of dairy animals, housing, feeding, breeding and
scientific management of dairy cows. yyShe is also getting additional income by selling manure,
fodder slips and fodder seeds.
yyAs a result of capacity building training by KVK,
Dindigul she established a small dairy unit in her farm yyAfter meeting out all the expenses, she is now earning
with 2 crossbred milch animals in the year 2017 as an an annual net income of Rs. 3,60,000/- from dairying.
additional enterprise and showed persistent growth in She established an integrated farming systems model in
milk production by adopting the scientific dairy farming her farm and purchased five more cows. Hydrophonics
practices, she had learnt from the training which led to was practiced for fodder cultivation. Her farm became a
increase in her monthly income. model for other dairy entrepreneurs to adopt similar
technologies and motivated other farmers to attend
yyThe increase in income has motivated her to expand similar trainings conducted by ICAR – KVK, Dindigul
her farm activities and shift towards mechanization by in dairy farming.
purchasing chaff cutter, milking machine, brush cutter,
etc with the help of KVK experts. AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS:
yyBy seeing her progress, one acre of the cultivable land yyShe got best dairy farmer award from VUTRC, Dindigul

26
 2020-21

SLATTED FLOOR GOAT

24 FARMING : A SUCCESS STORY

Smt. Brindadevi, Indira Nagar, Bangalapudur, Taluk: Gobichettipalayam, District: Erode,

Mobile No: 9842482432, State: Tamil Nadu

INTRODUCTION: yyShe is getting an annual income of Rs. 4,37,500 from the

sale of 50 goats (9 months age) at an average weight of
yySmt. Brindadevi is a graduate and involved in agriculture 30-40 Kg. She is selling FYM to other farmers also.
and allied farming activities since 2010.
yyThe annual income of her family was around Rs. 2 lakhs yyKVK identified this goat farm as a model slatted floor
which did not meet the family expenses and children’s goat rearing unit for KVK technical programmes.
education. yyShe started mixed fodder cultivation practices like Cumbu
Napier (CO-5), Fodder Sorghum COFS-31 and Hedge
yyShe came to know that the slatted floor goat rearing is a Lucerne and supplying seed and slips to other farmers.
beneficial enterprise.
yyApart from Goat farming she started Mini dairy farming
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: with 20 HF dairy cows and regularly selling milk in
yyGoat rearing is one of the important aspects in dry land nearby areas.
farming system. In rural areas open grazing is a common yyShe established Mini Concentrate Feed preparation unit at
practice for rearing of goat flocks. farm level to reduce feed cost.
yyDue to the reduction in open grazing there is a need to IMPORTANCE TO OTHER FARMERS:
search another alternate option i.e. stall feeding or slatted
floor goat rearing method. yy46 slatted goat units were established in Erode district
with the technical support from KVK and this unit is an
yyKrishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Myrada conducted training play as inspiration to other farmers to initiate slatted floor
programme on slatted floor goat rearing during 2012. She
attended the training programme and came to know about Goat farming.
slatted floor shed construction, breed selection, goat breed yyDocumentary film has been produced on Slated Floor
up gradation, green fodder production, concentrated feed Goat Rearing as a training material.
production, disease management and market linkage. yyMore than 2400 farmers have visited the farm for updating
their skill and knowledge on goat rearing
ACHIEVEMENTS:
yyMYRADA KVK conducted front line demonstration
yyShe started slatted floor goat rearing shed with 10 local programme of Mixed Fodder Cultivation technology.
goats and gradually replaced with Tellicherry goat breed.
yyApart from Goat farming this successful woman
yyIn the beginning she sold out the kids and male goats for entrepreneur became a government teacher in the year
breeding and slaughter purposes in their block and later 2015. She continues to monitor the unit with the support
she expanded her marketing linkages to nearby blocks of of her husband and family members.
Erode district.
yyGoats are being sold as live weight for Rs. 250/kg for AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS:
male and Rs. 300/kg for female at the farm gate. yyReceived award from ASPEE Foundation, Mumbai for
yyAt present she is maintaining around 60 adult goats & 45 “Best Woman Entrepreneur” for the year 2016 – 2017.
kids and 30 HF cross dairy cows in the farm. yyThe success story of woman farmer published in Daily
Thanthi Sunday special edition.

27
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

AZOLLA AS LIVESTOCK FEED

25 – A SUCCESS STORY

Smt. Khushi Lepcha, Village Lower Lingthem, GPU-Lingthem Lingdem, Distt. North
Sikkim, Contact No.7872985193

INTRODUCTION: Food Security and Agriculture Development Department

and the Azolla seed was provided by Animal Husbandry,
yySmt. Khushi Lepcha is a labourious and progressive
Livestock, Fisheries & Veterinary Services Department.
farmer. Her village in Lingthem-Lingdem GPU is
basically a milk producing area where farmers have been yyTraining and technology demonstration was provided by
practicing dairy farming as primary income generating ATMA, North Sikkim district.
profession/occupation. She is a member of Self Help yyHarvesting of Azolla was done in 15-25th day of
Group. starting and fed to cows. The villagers noticed marked
improvement in milk yield, quality and overall health
TAINING & MOTIVATION: condition of animals. Azolla proved to be palatable to
yyIn dairy farming green fodder supply often becomes cows from eating behaviour as compared to other fodder.
a problem. As such theme was a need of alternate /
additional sources of green fodder.
yyAnother positive aspect is that the rate of biomass
production is rapid to ensure a steady and sustainable
yyATMA identified the need of the village and offered a production at doorstep. From 14’x14’x2’ size pond
demonstration on Azolla cultivation as feed for cattle and production was 600 kg which was sold @ Rs.20/kg. It
other livestock. earned Rs.12,000/-. The total cost involved Rs.3,000/-
yyAccordingly, the plot of Mrs. Khushi Lepcha was Thus a profit of Rs.9,000/- was earned.
identified as demonstration site. A group of villagers were
trained on the subject matter. IMPORTANCE TO FARMERS:
ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES yyThe participant farmers involved in the training and
demonstration realized the benefit of Azolla cultivation as
AND ACHIEVEMENTS: livestock feed. There has been a horizontal spread of the
yyThe demonstration was conducted on a simple pond of technique. The farmers are happy to be benefitted with the
14’x14’x2’ dimension. Azolla pond was provided by Azolla farming technique and up gradation of their skill.

28
 2020-21

SUCCESS STORY OF A DAIRY

26 WOMAN

Smt. Abboju Jyoti, Village : Perikavedu, Block : Rajparthy, District : Warangal Rural, State :
Telangana, Contract No. 9441018886

INTRODUCTION: yyFor monitoring the farm she employed one labour with
a salary of Rs.35,000/- per year. Now she own a well
yySmt. Abboju Jyothi is a small and traditional farmer,
established farm with 3 buffalos, 7 cows with a well
about 10 years ago she started a Dairy farm on two acres
with one buffalo and climbed the success ladder. constructed shed along with fisheries and poultry farm.
yyShe is earning about Rs.6,00,000/ year with only
ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES Rs.2,50,000/ expenditure.
AND ACHIEVEMENTS:
RECOGNITION:
yyShe bought a buffalo by barrowing a loan of rupees fifty
thousand (50000/-) from Mahila Sangam. The buffalo yyShe has been certified from the All India Radio as best
yielded about 6 liters of milk per day. Later, she bought progressive farmer and certificate from the NSDC.
two buffaloes and seven cows. yyMrs. Abboju Jyothi has successfully cleared the
assessment for the role of Dairy farmer/Enterpreneur
yyThen the shed was constructed by EGC. There is a
sorghum fodder field around the farm for harvesting (QP No. AGR/Q4101) conforming to national skill
fodder. She bought a chaffer machine and grading mill qualifications framework Level-4 Issued by Dr. R.S.
machinery which costs Rs.20,000/-. Prasanna Kumar, Institution name KVK, Mamnoor,
Warangal. She has also received Delhi DD Kisan Award.
yyMostly she uses the fodder from her own cultivated farm
but occasionally she purchases it from other farmers. IMPORTANCT TO FARMERS:
Besides dairy farm, she started fisheries and poultry farm
and wastage from these farms are used for gober gas. yyThis farmer who took up dairy farming and gave away a
promising career is a role Model for upcoming farmers.

29
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

DAIRY FARMER ENGINEERED

27 HER SUCCESS THROUGH
TECHNOLOGY
Smt. Kamalpreet Kaur, Village :Pabbian, Tehsil : Jagrao, District :Ludhiana, State :Punjab

INTRODUCTION: ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES

yyDairy farming is very profitable business. Punjab has AND ACHIEVEMENTS:
been playing significant role in the development of dairy yyAfter the training she decided to take dairy loan to add on
production over the past few decades. various facilities such as fodder cutting machine, milking
yyBesides men’s role, women also play crucial role in machine, silo pits. Bank approved her loan considering
agriculture especially in the allied sector however the increased income from milking animals in future.
women’s role is grossly underestimated and undervalued. yyLater on she prepared Hi-tech shed for 50 cows according
Their role includes various activities such as milking of to the rules and instructions of the dairy department. She
the cattle, churning of cream to get butter and preparation replaced old milking animals and bought improved high
of by-products of milk (such as lassi, cheese, curd). yielding cows. She understood the increasing demand
yyNow-a-days, switching to dairy farming (an of the hygienic milk production so she adopted Modern
entrepreneurial venture) is need of the hour. Keeping milking pipeline parlour with automatic milk handling
in view, Smt. Kamalpreet Kaur, w/o S. Inderjeet Singh, facility. She decided to expand dairy farm and supported
a 45 year old lady decided to join hands with the dairy by her husband. She owned 8 acres of land and took
department for the revival of the Traditional occupation 22 acres on lease to cultivate green fodder. She bought
of her in-laws on commercial basis with the latest a Fodder harvester to prepare silage by realizing the
technology. nutritional requirements of animal. Now-a-days they have
38 cows and 24 calves, thus producing 4 quintals of milk
TRAINING & MOVITATION: which is being sold at PDFA.
yyIn spite of handling all household chores, she worked
IMPORTANCE TO FARMERS:
with her husband in order to reach her family’s business
a new heights. yyShe took numerous trainings and other facilities from
the department and thus attains a distinctive identity as a
yyShe is progressive by nature therefore, she took training dairy farmer in her area in a short period of time. She is
on “Modern Dairy Farming” from the Dairy Department
under Mahila Sashaktikaran Scheme. a role model for the other farm women in her community.

RECOGNITION:
yyIn 2016 during dairy seminar, she was honoured as a
progressive dairy farmer in JATT Expo.

30
 2020-21

GOATERY AS A SUCCESSFUL
28 VENTURE

Smt. Bornali Baruah Duara, Vill: Charing Duarapara, Block: Gaurisagar Dev. Block,
Dist: Sivasagar, Assam

INTRODUCTION: rearing practice and for this purpose established a

Training Centre at her own residence with assistance
yySmt. Barnali Baruah Duarah is a progressive farmer as from the Assa Science Centre, Department of Animal
well as stockwoman. Although she has completed her
Masters Degree she is not running after a salaried job. Husbandry & Veterinary, ATMA, Gaurisagar Block and
Rather she has taken up Agriculture as a vocation and is other Veterinarians.
doing different agricultural practices with success and yyFurther she has taken a good initiative to produce balanced
established herself as a renowned progressive farmer feed with proportionate amount of protein, minerals and
in the locality. Now she rears a herd of 82 goat at her calcium.
individual effort. yyShe is highly motivated and supported by the Assam
Agricultural University, Jorhat and Centre of Agricultural
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: Science to produce napier, hybrid napier, dinanath and
yyShe got training and motivation from ATMA, Sivasagar maize as feed fodder for her farm.
and Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary,
Assam and ASSAM Agricultural University on various
yyBesides these, she has also been rearing different hybrid
variety of chicken like BV-300, Banraja along with the
occasions. most popular Turkey and Quail.
yyThese trainings instilled in her mind to do something that yyFurther as per the demand of local community she is also
earns her a bread and also give a message to the mass rearing various livestocks like Broiler, Khaki Campbel
particularly the youth. duck, local duck etc.
ACHIEVEMENTS: yyShe has also taken an interest and approach to integrated
Rice-Fish-Duck Farming.
yyShe has successfully reared different species of goat
adapting suitably to the climatic conditions of Assam. yyShe owns a Fishery tank of about 1 Bigha (.013 ha) at
She is creating natural hybrids with local Assamese Hill her home.
Goat and Bital from the Punjab, Sirahi from Rajasthan yyShe produces vermicompost from the excreta of goat,
and Jamunapari from Uttar Pradesh. birds and other agricultural waste for her own use and
yyShe has been inspiring the local people to take up goat for sale.

31
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

INCOME AND EMPLOYMENT

29 GENERATION THROUGH
VERMICOMPOST
Ms. Kanika Talukar, Village: Borjhar, P.O.Barama, Blok: Tihu, District: Nalbari,
State: Assam

INTRODUCTION: the year 2017. In this way, production has been increasing
gradually year after year.
yyMs. Kanika Talukdar is a widow from Borjar Village of
Nalbari district. She is 42 years old having Intermediate yyShe branded the product as ‘Jay vermicompost’ for
as educational qualification. marketing as per guidance of KVK, Nalbari.
yyHer life was hard after death of her husband. She was yyNow she invested some amount of money earned from
in search of a job for raising her only child and living a selling of vermicompost for construction of other two
normal life. concrete tanks for vermicompost production. Thus she
yyShe engaged herself in different on and off farm activities expanded her unit to 10 numbers, became self-employed
and struggled for earning a livelihood. and earned livelihood by adopting this venture. This is the
turning point for her life. Before adopting this technology
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: her earning was very low and she could hardly manage
her family.
yyIn the course of her search for a sustainable livelihood
alternative, she came in contact with Krishi Vigyan yyShe marketed her vermicompost in Nalbari and Guwahati
Kendra (KVK), Nalbari. She participated in a training city and now it is available in various nurseries in and
programme organized by KVK, Nalbari on Vermicompost around Guwahati City.
Production Technology in the year 2014. She came to
know about vermicompost for the first time after attending
yyBesides Nalbari, her vermicompost market has been
expanded to other districts of Assam like Darrang,
the training. After understanding the technology she was Kamrup, Baksa, Goalpara, Chirang, Bongaigaon, Barpeta,
interested in adopting the production of vermicompost as Majuli etc. and demand has been increasing day by day
enterprise. because of its desirable quality. Recently, she started
yyShe became convinced that Organic farming is call of the production of vermiwash bio pesticide and branded it as
hour, without vermicompost and bio pesticides no one can “Jay Vermiwash” and commercialized.
dream of organic agriculture. One of the major challenges
of organic cultivation is control of insect pests and yyIn 2019 her production was 1000q with an annual
income of 5-6 lakhs. She has a plan to further expand her
diseases and that can effectively be overcome by use of
vermicompost unit to 20 units within next 2 years. Within
Vermiwash bio pesticide. As Vermicompost is inevitable
a short period of time Kanika Talukdar has achieved a
for organic farming, demand will be ever increasing.
remarkable success in vermicomposting and has become
Hence, an organized market for vermicompost will come
well known woman entrepreneur in the district as well as
up.
in the state.
yyInitially her financial condition was not good and she yyAs a result her standard of living has also been uplifted.
attached the technology as it requires comparatively less
Now she has admitted her daughter in a good school at
investment and is easy to start utilizing the organic waste
Nalbari town which was beyond her imagination before
materials and cow dung available in her own house.
adoption of this venture.
yyAs she was a poor farmer, initially she constructed the yyIt is worth mentioning that, she is the only woman
low cost tanks with locally available materials (bamboo)
vermicompost entrepreneur of Assam receiving the
as guided by SMS (Soil Science) KVK, Nalbari.
license from State Department of Agriculture, GOA for
ACHIEVEMENTS: supplying vermicompost.
yyKVK, Nalbari supported her by conducting a Front Line yyToday, she is well recognised for her ‘Jay vermicompost’
Demonstrtion (FLD) on ‘Vermicompost Production enterprise throughout the district as well as the state of
Technology’ in her field providing technical support and Assam.
1 kg earthworm species, Eisenia foetida. yyShe is more confident, can give public speech and invited
yyKVK, Nalbari facilitated her a linkage with District and felicitated by different organisations. She has attained
Agriculture Office, Nalbari and she was provided with 4 this independency through hard and smart work and
numbers of vermi beds from DAO, Nalabari. In the first scientific practices.
year she produced 17q and earned Rs.16300/- only. yyA glimpse of production, expenditure and income from
yyShe earned Rs140000/- by selling 150q vermicompost in vermicompost:

32
 2020-21

Year Production Cost of production Gross Net yyMoreover, she has created employment for two rural
(q) (Rs) return Return youth in her vermicompost unit. In her language “people
(Rs) (Rs) know me for my quality vermicompost, self employed
and able to provide all essentials to my daughter and meet
2015 17 3600 16900 13300
my family need”. Now she is happy for her enterprise and
2016 76 20000 76000 56000 also became a part of organic revolution endeavour of the
2017 200 65000 190000 125000
state. This is an unique example of a journey from zero to
a remarkable success.
2018 500 160000 485000 325000
yyAn awareness message is percolated in society on
2019 1000 290000 890000 600000 importance of using vermicompost and bio pesticides.
People are aware about health hazardous affects of
RECOGNITION & AWARDS: synthetic fertilizers and pesticides and attracted to
benefits and importance of organically produced food.
yyWith the support and suggestions of KVK, Nalbari, Kanika It is economically viable, environmentally safe, nutrient
has also successfully completed two months training in
Agripreneurship orientation programme under NITI Ayog supplement for organic food production leaving no
at North East Agriculture Technology Entrepreneurs harmful residual affect. Hence, the scientific technology
Hub (NEATeHub), AAU-Incubation Centre, Jorhat in of vermicompost and vermiwash production and its
the month of October, 2019 and she is expected to get a commercialization definitely brings success to her life as
grant of Rs. 5 lakhs from NEATeHUB , AAU- incubation an entrepreneur.
Centre, Jorhat.
INFLUENCE ON THE FARMERS:
yyShe was felicitated by Rotary club of Guwahati and recently yyThe unemployed women and youths of her village
she bagged the Woman entrepreneur award offered by
are also inspired by her activities and come forward to
Asom Sangrami Mancha, an NGO for her contribution
adopt vermicompost production. Inspiring by her works
to the society. Her vermicompost unit becomes a site for
Mahima Haloi, Champa Rabha Barman, Rumi Talukar,
exposure visit for farmers lead by different organizations
Anjana Haloi, Lohit Das, Bina Haloi, Biswajit Haloi,
and nearby KVKs (Barpeta, Baksa, Kamrup) and she has
Chakrapani Talukdar and a number of SHGs have also
been invited as a resource person in different training
started production of vermicompost. Her enterprise also
programmes on vermicompost production by several
serves as a demonstration unit for those who are interested
organizations and also by AIR, Guwahati.
to adopt vermicomposting.

33
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

VERMICOMPOSTING
30 – A SUCCESSFUL AGRO
-ENTERPRISE
Smt. M Rupali Vijay Mali, Village- Kasba Sangaw, Tal: Kagal, Dist: Kolhapur(Maharashtra)

INTRODUCTION: yyAt present, vermicompost is produced through eight

beds and a commercial company named ‘Samarth Agro
yySmt. Rupali Mali, a Progressive woman farmer belongs to Products Pvt. Ltd’ has been established.
Village Kasba Sangaw (Tal. Kagal) in Kolhapur district,
has taken on the occupation of Vermicomposting, rearing yyShe is producing 35-40 tonnes of Vermicompost per year
of earthworms and producing containing nimboli, karanj and selling it at Rs 12 per kg.
(Pongamiapinnata) along with agriculture. yyShe is earning around 5,00,000/year which include
yyShe is M.A. in sociology. For the last twelve years, by Vermicompost (Rs. 3.5 lakhs,) Vermiwash (Rs. 50,000).
recognizing skills and customer demands, she has gained yySale is done through telephone and physical contact to
stability in shaping the business. The Mali family owns nearby farmers and newswires.
about two and a half acres of farmland.
yyThe young woman farmer takes complete responsibility IMPACT ON OTHER FARMERS:
of her farm and manages efficiently. yyShe receives demand from farmers in Goa, Pune and
Karnataka apart from Maharashtra.
TRAINING:
yyShe is providing employment to six women.
yyInitially,the business was started by bringing in
yyShe is also in process of establishing a Farmer Producer
earthworm culture provided by the Zilla Parishad funded Company and joining more hands of rural women and
by the Khadi Village Industries Corporation. farmers for providing more income and making them
yyKVK Kolhapur-II has provided her scientific knowledge self-reliant.
and practices for vermi composting.
RECOGNITION:
ACHIEVEMENTS:
yyShe is one of the innovative farmers and Scientific
yyShe initially started vermicomposting for supplying to her Advisory Committee member of KVK Kolhapur-II.
farm.
yyShe has represented KVK Kolhapur-II in Farmers Science
yyThough she used it for own cultivation, she started Congress,2020 at University of Agricultural Sciences,
selling excess quantity, slowly the number of customers Bengaluru.
continued to grow, and then she begun to produce large
quantities.
yyShe has been awarded with Mahila Gaurav Purashkar by
Rotary club and various other awards.

34
 2020-21

ORGANIC FARMING
31 BY ADOPTING VERMI
COMPOSTING
SHGs Under ATMA, Goa

INTRODUCTION: also being involved. The earthworm species used for this
project was Eiseniafoetida.
yyVermicompost or Vermicast (also called worm castings,
worm humus, worm manure, or worm feces) is the yyATMA identified 7 SHGs viz.
end-product of the breakdown of organic matter by yyBalsati SHG Kirlapal Dabal Dharbandora
earthworms. These castings have been shown to
yySateri SHG Kirlapal Dabal Dharbandora
contain reduced levels of contaminants and a higher
saturation of nutrients than the organic materials before yySati Bhagwati SHG Kirlapal Dabal Dharbandora
vermicomposting. yyLaxmi SHG Kirlapal Dabal Dharbandora
yyVermicompost contains water-soluble nutrients and yyShri Jalmi Self Help group Marad
is an excellent, nutrient-rich organic fertilizer and yyShri Mahadev SHG Marad
soil conditioner. It is used in farming and small scale yyShri Mahanandi SHG Marad
sustainable, organic farming.
ACHIEVEMENTS:
yyVermicomposting has gained popularity in both
industrial and domestic settings because, as compared yyThe Pilot project has emerged successful one as the four
with conventional composting, it provides a way to treat Self help groups from Kirlapal Dabal installed 4 plastic
organic wastes more quickly. beds ( 12x3x2 feet) for preparation of vermicompost.
Vermicompost was ready in two months. They harvested
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: around 400kg of vermicompost during first harvest.
yyATMA has worked and working tirelessly to convert yyNow the group has continued this activity to generate
Goan fields organic. In this context ATMA came up with employment for themselves. They have already sold
the strategy in which the objective of promoting organic around 9-10 tonnes of vermicompost costing 10/- per kg
agriculture as well as providing a source of income for from last 1.5 years.
local Women farmers Self Help Group is fulfilled. yyNow the group is on its way to install some more beds and
yyThe motive is to train local ladies with vermicomposting expand their business.
techniques. In turn the vermicompost would fetch yyAnother 3 self help groups from Marad Dharbandora are
lucrative prices to the Self Help Group along with producing the vermicompost from last 3months. Now
helping the farmers grow organic produce by using the the groups have continued this activity and selling the
vermicompost. vermicompost. Till date around 10-12 tonnes of compost
yyTo achieve this ATMA along with local Zonal Agriculture has been sold by the groups.
Office, Dharbandora conducted series of meetings with
the Women Self Help groups to motivate the local ladies IMPACT ON OTHER FARMERS:
to take up the initiative and the ATMA could convince yyThe production from these SHGs are able to meet the
those ladies for the project. demands of farmers to some extent.
yyInitially the Women self help group faced challenges in yyIn near future the ATMA is looking forward to introduce
procuring the cow dung which is one of the important raw this business strategy to other Women farmers Self Help
material which was solved by ATMA. While imparting Groups and create a vermicompost brand in the market
training , along with ATMA Project Director and Deputy with attractive packaging and is also aiming to introduce
Project Director expertise from private enterprises was this product to new market destinations.

35
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

SUCCESS STORY OF
32 BERKELEY COMPOSTING (18
DAYS COMPOSTING) METHOD
Food Security Group, Nongkynrih, Block Las kein, Distt. West Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya

INTRODUCTION: of compost and most of them prepare around 3-5 piles

in a single cropping season and as per demand. In this
yyComposting is natural process of recycling decomposable way, their dependency on chemical fertilizers has been
organic materials into a rich product known as compost.
Anything that once living will decompose. There are reduced drastically, thus improved the soil fertility and
many methods of composting which are being followed in turn increased their crop productivity. Besides, using
by the farmers for production of compost viz., Vermi- for own crop cultivation, some farmers were also able to
composting, pit composting, backyard composting etc but sell the compost to the other farmers which add to their
all these methods take a period of more than two months income and generate employment.
in decomposition. The Berkeley Composting Method is yyFarmers who were taken up the Berkeley Composting
possibly one of the most efficient ways of composting. It method successfully:
takes only 18 days in decomposing. yyShriKamailangTyngkan, Nongkynrih
yyBefore the commencement of the project, Farmers of yyProduction:350 kgs of compost/pile.
Nongkynrih village were mostly following pit composting
and Vermi-composting methods which took more than
yyNo. of Piles:5 piles
two months in decomposition, as a result of which very yySmtTherisSyngkon, Nongkynrih
less amount of compost was produced in a cropping yyProduction:450 kgs of compost/pile.
season. Thus, the farmers had to depend heavily on the yyNo. of Piles:5 piles
chemical fertilizers for cultivation of their crops which
caused health hazards to human and adverse effects on
yySmtRibhaSayoo, Nongkynrih
the soil. yyProduction:450 kgs of compost/pile.
yyNo. of Piles:4 piles
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: yySmtWiandaBhoi, Nongkynrih
yyIn this context for sustainable production, minimizing
yyProduction:350 kgs of compost/pile.
the uses of chemicals fertilizers, improving the soil
fertility and minimizing the loss due to crop failure, yyNo. of Piles:4 piles
capacity building/hands on training on Berkeley method
IMPORTANCE TO FARMERS:
of composting was conducted by the BTT Convener of
Laskein C&RD Block for the Food Security Group of yyThus in general, Berkeley Composting/18 days
Nongkynrih village. Composting Method was the ideal method of composting
for improving the soil fertility, minimizing the use of
yyA total of 20 numbers of farmers attended the training chemical fertilizers and improving the quality of life
programme on Berkeley Compost/ 18 Days Compost of farmers especially small and marginal farmers by
Making. Out of which five of them have taken up the increasing their crop productivity in a sustainable manner,
Berkeley composting successfully. minimizing the shortage of compost in cropping season
yyBerkeley method of Composting/18 days composting and enhance their farm income and livelihood support for
method is one of the best technologies which was easily poverty alleviation.
adopted and followed by the farmers. At the time of
training and demonstration itself, the farmers started
yySoon after intensive training and awareness derive
conducted, the mindset of the farmers in the Village as a
accepting the technology. whole changed and they started to follow and adopt the
yyFrom a single pile or cage of size 1cubic meter, majority Berkeley method of composting.
of the farmers were able to produce around 300-400 kgs

36
 2020-21

VERMICOMPOST: SOURCE OF
33 INCOME AND EMPLOYMENT
GENERATION
Smt Darshana Sharma, Vill: Mitali Block: Baghpat Dist: Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh
Ph no: 9837224900

INTRODUCTION: yyThe produce is sold in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana,

Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir.
yySmt Darshana Sharma W/o Late Lokeshwar Dayal Sharma
is an energetic woman with a progressive mindset and yyHer vermicompost production being of good quality is in
indomitable spirit. She heads her family which comprises great demand in J&K for flower production.
of her son, her daughter-in-law and two grandchildren. yyMany farmers from nearby district like Gaziabad, Gautam
She formed a Self Help Group named “Omkar Women Buddh nagar, Meerut and Bulandshahar regularally
Self Help Group” in 2002 with 15 likeminded women come to visit her production unit and to understand her
farmers. Main aim of SHG is production of vermicompost business model. As of now 600 farmers have got training
for the promotion of organic farming. and motivation from her enterprise, and are her torch
bearers.
ACHIEVEMENTS:
yyAgriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry departments
yyShe started open method of vermicomposting in one acre have used her competence to train other fellow farmers in
of land now it has extended three times ie in 3 acre of Kisan Mela, Gosthi etc.
land. Being open method, it runs at peak capacity form
Sept-Apr. yyShe had been one of the women speakers in the
program “Vaigyaniko ki baat kisano ke sath” for women
yyHer group members also started vermi compost production empowerment organized by the state government. The
and earned additional income by sale of vermi compost program was chaired by Hon’ble Agriculture Minister.
packet in the market. Using the NIC network these women speakers sitting at
yyShe sells vermicompost @ of Rs. 5/kg and 50 kg of bag at NIC, Lucknow, shared their experiences with the women
the rate of Rs. 250/kg farmers sitting at NIC of the districts. The program lived
yyShe earns a total of Rs. 20 lakh per year by sale of worms streamed also for the benefit of other farmer.
and vermicompost incurring an expenditure of Rs 8 lakh/
year. Thus, she makes a net profit of Rs. 12 lakh/year. AWARDS AND RECOGINITON:
She employs four laborers per day and at peak of working yyShe has been awarded so many times at state level as
season 10-12 additional laborers are engaged. well as district level for her vermicompost production.
yyShe provides information and guidance to the farmers In 2002 she was awarded by Cropping System Research
and help them in many ways. Under her guidance and Project, Modipuram, Merut. In 2003, she was awarded
support about 35 units are running in nearby 12 villages Dr Chaudhary Charan Singh Award at State level by
successfully along with promotion of organic farming and Agriculture Department. In addition she was also honored
sustain their livelihood. by “Uttar Pradesh Mahila Munch” in 2013.

37
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

BEEKEEPING AS A
34 SUCCESSFUL INCOME
GENERATING ENTERPRISE
Smt. Lalita Reddy Sipayipeta, 33rd Ward, Tadepalligudem, District : West Godavari,
Andhra Pradesh - 534101 Email: lalitareddysatti@gmail.com. Phone No: 8008007616

INTRODUCTION: ACHIEVEMENTS:
yySmt. S. Lalita Reddy is having 15 acres of land and yySmt. S. Lalita Reddy after attending training offered by
cultivating paddy, coconut, mango, cashew, maize, KVK decided to give a try on bee keeping.
groundnut, blackgram, greengram, sugarcane, vegetables,
yyInitially she started with 8 units of Apis mellifera in her
fishery, poultry and dairy. farm with the help of the KVK. Due to the floral abundance
yyShe was interested in bee keeping and attended training in and around her farm, there was a rapid development
organized by KVK, Venkataramannagudem during 2016 in the colonies. At present there are nearly 16 bee hive
under RKVY. boxes which can produce honey approximately about
30 kg/month. She is selling honey @ Rs.300 per kg and
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: bee wax@ Rs. 300/kg. On an average she is earning
yyIncome generation is important aspect of agricultural Rs.10500/- as additional benefit per month & net return
activity. Apiculture is an income generating business of Rs. 1,18,400 per year from 16 colonies. Presently she
under favourable conditions. was the lead farmer in the FPO on beekeeping in West
Godavari district.
yyDomestication of honey bees with the species viz.,Apis
mellifera and Apis cerana indica are found to be very
successful among bee keepers, where abundant forage
AWARDS & RECOGNITION:
required for bee activity. But selling and marketing of yyShe was one of the participant among 43 participants
honey remains a big challenge for apiculturist in the area throughout India for the training programme on “Advances
due to lack of knowledge on honey processing unit in the in rice production for women farmers” at KSRM, KIIT,
area. Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, India during 2018 organised by
Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of science &
yyKeeping this in mind KVK, Venkataramannagudem Technology, Government of India and International Rice
initiated vocational training programme on bee keeping
Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines.
with the financial assistance of “Rashtriya Krishi Vikas
Yojana” from the year 2015-16. By these trainings trainees yyAmong 43 participants 8 women farmers were selected
became aware of the fact that apiculture is an enterprise (she was one among the 8 women farmers) from India
of selling honey as well as bye products like collection of to attend training programme on “Advances in Rice
pollen, selling bee wax, making comb foundation sheets, Production for women farmers” held from 24th – 25th
royal jelly & Bee venom. September at Los Banos, Laguna, Philippines.
yyAttended training programme on Advances in
rice production for women farmers, KSRM, KIIT,
Bhubaneshwar,Odisha,India.

38
 2020-21

FLORICULTURE FOR BETTER

35 INCOME AND SUSTAINABLE
LIVELIHOOD
Smt. Arenla Sangtam, Village: Helipong, Tuensang town Dist: Tuensang, Nagaland

INTRODUCTION: ACHIEVEMENTS:
yySmt. Arenla Sangtam, an uneducated elderly woman in yyBut after the intervention of KVK Tuensang in 2018 by
her late 50s of Tuensang town started Rose cultivation by providing better quality planting materials, inputs and
setting up a 200 sq. m polyhouse in her village in the year technical support, she could earn higher income and meet
2016. She started Rose cultivation due to her keen interest the needs of the family. She states that during 2018 to
in flowers, but without much knowledge on cultivation 2019 her average gross income from the sale of Rose cut
practices. In the initial years she had to face a lot of flowers per year was Rs. 2, 60,000/-, and she felt the need
problems due to insect, pest and diseases incidence and to explore and venture better into this area to earn more
lack of technical knowhow on application of fertilizers. income

TRAINING AND MOTIVATION: yyDuring the trial period, data recorded for the maximum
plant height,length of sprouted bud, diameter of flower
yyShe approached KVK Tuensang in search of solution to bud and number of flowers per plant. All the four
her problems in Rose garden. varieties performed well however the cultivar Avalanche
yyKVK, Tuensang alloted her trial demonstration to provide performed better under Tuensang district which recorded
her hands on training and skill for Rose gardening. maximum values in all the yield attributing traits.
yyRose being a perennial plant with an average life span of yy In 2018-19 after further getting trained from KVK,
6-7 years requires more commitment of the grower in day Tuensang on various topics of flower cultivation,
to day operations which includes right type of equipment production and value addition, she also started her own
installed, correct technology and proper management nursery for seasonal flowers and potted green plants.
practices with standing inputs and good cultural practices. yyDuring leisure time she makes different dry flower
Her Rose polyhouse at Helipong village was selected products and crafts which are being exhibited and sold
for carrying out the trial with well-planned strategy and during various festivals and celebrations in the district.
technologies for ensuring better quality and higher returns Customers from other districts like Kohima and Dimapur
to the farmer. also order and purchase flowers from her which give her
yyA trail was undertaken by introduction of new rose better economic returns. In the current season the income
cultivars for varietal evaluation namely; V1: Gold Strike, generated from her enterprise are as follows:
V2: Taj Mahal, V3: Noblesses & V4: Avalanche for
assessment in the year 2018-2019 with an aim to study
the influence of different rose cultivars on quality aspects Rose cut flower : Rs. 2,60,000/-
and number of cut flower production for better returns to Potted greens : Rs. 40,000/-
the farmers.
Seasonal flowers : Rs. 30,000/-
yyA spacing of 17 cm x 45 cm was maintained with 500
plants per unit covering 100 plants in each bed (5nos). All Dry flowers : Rs. 20,000/-
the recommended cultural practices was followed along
Total : Rs. 3,50,000/-
with regular monitoring by Scientists and data at different
growth stages and yield parameters were recorded.

39
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

Performance of rose cultivars under protected cultivation in Mrs Sangtam`s Polyhouse

S. No. Plant height at first flower Length of the sprouted bud Diameter of flower bud No of flowers per plant (2-3 yr)
flush (cm) (cm) (cm)

1 V1: Gold Strike 49 cm 3.13 cm 13

2 V2: Taj Mahal 40.15 cm 3.13 cm. 11
3 V3: Noblesses 45.76 cm 2.59 cm 10
4 V4: Avalanche 51.10cm 2.97 cm 15

IMPORTANCE TO OTHER FARMERS: have been actively involved in production and sales of
flowers throughout the district.
yyHer innovativeness and eagerness to try technology based
cultivation has influenced many homemakers to divert yyFormation of Flower Growers Society Tuensang
hobby into a profession.With her initiative and leading and exhibition of floral products during festivals and
role, and technical guidance from KVK, Tuensang exhibition
an organisation named ”Flower Grower`s Society, yyFollow up training programmes and method
Tuensang” has been started in the year 2019 and now they demonstrations for SHGs

40
 2020-21

NATURAL HOMEMADE SOAP

36 AND PAPER BAG MAKING

VAU Self Help Group, Bilkhawthlir Dawr Veng, District: Kolasib, State Mizoram

INTRODUCTION: from July 2019 and sold within the district which directly
increases their income to a significant extend.
yyVAU SHG, comprises of 6 female membersth below sixty
(60) years of age, which was formed on 11 July, 2014. yyApart from paper bag and soap making, KVK Kolasib has
The group members are all house wives working hard and been training them in baking, value addition and sweets
very enthusiastic in learning new things. making etc.
yyTheir only source of income is from making of nutrition yyThe demand for their natural soaps and paper bags have
kitchen gardening, rearing of pigs and hens. increased to a new height especially, with the paper bags
as people are aware of the how plastics can hamper the
TRANING & MOTIVATION: environment.
yyKnowing laborious nature and enthusiasm of these yyWith the selling of natural soap they could earn Rs. 46,000
women, the KVK Kolasib trained and worked with them from the selling paper bag they could easily fetched Rs.
from 2016 on Soap making process. 10,000 per month.
yyThen, they started the “melt and pour” professional yyAs a result of their tireless effort and contributions they
method of making soap from 2019, this method have received many awards at different levels including
surprisingly double their income, as the soap were much one national award. The media had also recognized them
more attractive and were made from different ingredients by airing their interviews.
such as , Calamine, Charcoal, Honey, Rice powder, Besan,
Tea Tree, Jasmine, Turmeric, Goats milk, Aloe Vera, etc. INFLUENCE ON THE OTHER FARMERS:
They had participated in SARAS Fair on December, yyThey are invited to participate in the District & State
2019 (one of the biggest fair organized for farmers and exhibition fairs and workshops.
other stakeholders in Mizoram). Among the many items yySince the SHG members are actively engaged in making
displayed, their Natural Soap was highly praised by many different items of demand of the people in the district and
dignitaries and others which were all sold out on the first now to a larger section of communities out of the district,
day of the fair itself. As their enthusiasm increased they their income also increasing as days and years pass by.
started expanding so are their items expanding. VAU SHG has significantly motivated other self help
yyAs a result, they are now engaged in making Paper bags groups in Mizoram.

41
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

SUCCESS STORIES OF ATMA

37 (COMMODITY INTEREST
GROUPS)
E.Latha W/o Ilango, Nallathur 9626368733, S.Mariyammal W/o Selvaraj, Nallathur
9159693581, M. Valli W/o Murugaiyapillai, Nallathur 948925817, District : Karaikal

INTRODUCTION: thousand) as Seed money. Apart from this they pooled

another Rs.40,000/- (Rupees Forty thousand)
yyRoja ATMA group is a women CIG consisting of 16
members under the Commodity Interest Group “Organic yyIn recent days, farmers of the district were gaining
Farming”. Initially the group was formed to cultivate and interest in Organic farming whereas the availability of
promote organic farming at their own land. Later they organic inputs is the major problem for the farmers. To
imbibed interest in vermicomposting as there was real cater the present day need of the farmers and also as a
dearth of enough organic mature around the locality. So step to recycle & increase the value of farm wastage,
they decided to produce VC on commercial basis. vermicompost production was largely promoted by
ATMA, Karaikal.
yyThough they are mainly producing Vermicompost, now
they are additionally producing Panchakavya, Amirtha yyAs a result of the training programme the started the low
Karaisal & Five leaf extracts also. cost vermicompost unit. The low cost vermicompost unit
is made up of thatched roof and cement flooring. Later
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: the CIG also started producing other organic inputs such
yyATMA Group aimed at changing the attitude of the group Panchakavya, Amirthakaraisal, 5 Leaf extracts and also
members. To transform them to become an entrepreneur selling value added products such as rice flour, ragi flour,
in order to improve the income and status of the farming pickle, snacks made up of rice flour.
community through group approach. yyThis become a additional source of income for their CIGs.
yyFocusing on this as a part of ATMA farmer oriented This vermicompost production unit become a source of
activity, Training on vermicompost production was given input for farmers practising organic farming & also used
to Roja ATMA group of Nallathur at Centre for Indian for nursery development.
Knowledge System (CIKS), Sirkali on 19.07.2014.
MARKETING:
yyAs a result, the group found that vermicomposting is a
profitable venture, which does not require much attention yyUsually sold at their village itself. Further the group also
& care and it can be an additional source of income with sell their proucts through agricultural exihibitions, public
locally available raw materials without spending much events, etc
time and investment.
ECONOMIC IMPACT:
yyFollowed by repeated trainings, Demonstrations and yyVermicompost -6000 Kg@ Rs.10/Kg
exposure visits they have started to produce additionally
the organic inputs such as Panchakavya, Amirtha Karaisal yyPanchakavya – 2500 litre @ Rs.80/litre
& Five leaf extracts. yyAmirthakaraisal- 900 litre @ Rs.20/litre
yyATMA Karaikal provided Rs.10,000/-(Rupess Ten yyFive leaf extract- 600 litre @ Rs.20/litre

42
 2020-21

GROUP MARKETING FOR

38 REMUNERATIVE PRICE TO
SMALL GROWERS
Chiruplang Commodity Interest Group Village : Mookyndur, Block : Thadlaskein
Development, District : West Jaintia Hills,State : Meghalaya

INTRODUCTION: ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES

yyCHIRUPLANG COMMODITY INTEREST GROUP is AND ACHIEVEMENTS:
a group formed by the following 10 members: yyThe group in the beginning starts selling tomato only
yyLeader : Smt. Eris Suting, Asstt.Leader : Smt. Debora 2 quintals to 1 MT per day but nowadays the selling of
Suting, Smt. Silomi Suting, Shri. Phiwel Mukhim, Smt. tomato is increasing to 4-5 tons per day. In the off season
Rebeka Suting, Smt. Darihun Suting, Shri. Kwestarlin the group collect beans and other vegetables and sells in
Nongseij, Shri. Pynshngain Kharsati, Shri. Maidong the local market at Jowai and sometimes outside State.
Suting, Smt. Blon Suting. yyIn one year the group’s earning increased to Rs. 30-40
yyThe location of Group is 16 km from district headquarter. lakhs from selling tomato and other vegetable.
The group have one collection centre for tomato and
collect from all the farmers who produce tomato from IMPORTANCE TO FARMERS:
their own village Mookyndur and nearby villages.All the yyThrough this collection centre the farmers are very happy
members grow tomato crops and then sell in the collection because they don’t have to go to the town for selling their
centre only. In the peak season i.e from the month of June vegetables, but directly from the field to the collection
till December the collection is 4-5 tons per day and if it is centre. They don’t have to spend for transportation etc. It
in the starting month and before the end of the season the is very helpful for the farmers.
collection is 1-2 tons per day. yyAt the same time during the peak season only the group
yyThe Group sells the tomato to the nearby states like members can not work in the collection centre so they
Dharmanagar District in Triputa and Nilam Bazar in need to engage extra people to help them, in this way
Assam. Regarding the price the group leader always they can help poor farmers to earn as daily labourer in the
contact the market price in the markets in Tripura and collection centre.
Assam. The market rate ranges from Rs.12/- to 22/- per
kg.

43
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

ADDITIONAL INCOME FROM

39 VALUE ADDITION OF BANANA

Bolkinggre Women’s Commodity Interest Group, Block Amd Samanda C.D. Block, District
East Garo Hills, Meghalaya

INTRODUCTION: Williamnagar, East Garo Hills district. She also attended

pickle and Chips making training in Kottayam, Kerela
yyBanana is one of the major Horticulture crops which
in South India. The P.D ATMA and Agriculture Officer
are grown extensively by the farmers in the Garo Hills
District of Meghalaya and East Garo Hills due to climatic motivated the group to undertake food processing in larger
condition and suitable soil texure. Organic Bananas are scale. The group at present has complete set of materials
grown in these areas. for undertaking such an activity i.e, Pickle making and
Banana chips making.
yyNendran variety of banana, locally known as Bitaguri or
Songdu is the most popular variety among the different ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES
varieties and have high demand because of good quality AND ACHIEVEMENTS:
and size, especially for preparation of chips. Moreover, it
produces throughout the year, so the local people go for yyAt present, the group is making Banana chips and pickles
preparation of Banana Chips throughout the year. out of locally available raw materials such as Carombola,
Jackfruits, pineapple, and Aonla.
TRAINING: yyThe product is sold in local market and around
yyDistrict Agriculture Officer with P.D. ATMA visited Williamnagar and other districts too. At present the
Bolkinggre Women’s Community Interest Group No.4, group is earning Rs. 20,000/- to 25,000(Rupees Twenty
with 18 members. to twenty five thousand) per Week and monthly earning
is approximately Rs.80,000/- 1,00,000.00 (Rupees Eighty
yyThe Progressive farmers appointed Smt. Bailine A. thousand to one lakh) only by these products.
Sangma, to be the President of this group. Smt. Bailini
Sangma, of the village Bolkinggre, Williamnagar in East yyThe income is divided among the member of the group
Garo Hills is an active farmer having total land of 1.5 ha. and 5 % is kept in the fund for emergency
yyShe has many enterprises like banana, tapioca, Jackfruits, yyFig.1 Group Trainned members Fig.2 Demonstrating
pineapple, poultry, and paddy. She started the food Banana Chips making
processing work since 2012 with squash and pickles
making in the area. IMPORTANCE TO FARMERS:
yyThe group leader Smt. Bailine A. Sangma is trained in yyThe activities of the group is a successful example to the
chips making in District Commerce and Industry centre, farmers of the locality. It is expected that other groups
may also embark upon such enterprise.

44
 2020-21

SUCCESS OF COMMODITY
40 INTEREST GROUP IN MARINE
FISH PRODUCTS
President: Murugesan S/o Pazhanisamy -9843638479, Secretary: Yoganayagi
W/o Mohan - 9092166768, Treasurer: Geetha D/o Selvaraj -8098479137

INTRODUCTION: yyImportance of Hygienic handling of fishes.

yySri Renugadevi ATMA group is one of the well yyMarketing strategies for production of value added fish
functioning ATMA CIG consisting of 17 members under products.
the commodity interest group “Value added products- yyHands on Training on fish storable products, baked
Marine” at Karaikalmedu Village of Karaikal District. products, dry fish products.

TRAINING & MOTIVATION: ACHIEVEMENTS:

yyATMA programmes are aimed at transform the group of yyThey started with Rs. 25,000 (including Rs.10,000 given
farmers/Commodity Interest Groups (CIGs’) to become by ATMA, Karaikal as seed money).
an entrepreneur in order to enhance the income and status
of the farming community through group approach.
yyThis become an additional source of income for their CIGs
and ensured sharing their hygienic products to people.
yyAccordingly, ATMA Karaikal has formed the group yyAs an impact, the group have started in the preparation
namely Sri Renugadevi ATMA group in marine fish of prawn pickles in a rented house and taking orders for
farming with a motive to develop the farmers into parties/functions to supply sea foods/lunch/eatables.
entrepreneur in the field of Post Harvest Technology &
Value Addition at Karaikalmedu of Karaikal district. yyHygienic Pickle preparation and other eatables have
attracted people.
yyIn view of the above, ATMA Karaikal organised an inter-
State training on “Fish processing technologies” for four yyAt present their marketing process is easy. Usually sell
days at Tamil Nadu Dr. Jayalalitha Fisheries University the pickles at their village itself and taking orders for
(TNJFU), Nagapattinam from 11th June 2019 to 14th June parties/functions to supply lunch/sea foods/eatables at the
2019 to the CIGs by covering the following topics. rates - Prawn pickle @ Rs.100/ 100 g packet. Lunch/sea
foods/eatables @ Rs. 150/head.
yyScope of fish processing and production of value added
fish products.

45
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

A FRUITFUL ECONOMIC
41 WOMaN ENTREPRENEUR

Smt. Marla Village: Longsa, Block: Ongpangkong District: Mokokchung, State: Nagaland

INTRODUCTION: Pickle’ a brand registered under the Food Safety and

Standards Authority of India(FSSAI), managed through
yyFarmers of the hilly districts in Nagaland have been
her own processing unit constructed in an area of an acre
producing a variety of indigenous processed products
such as Naga King chilli pickle, green chili pickle, ginger of land in her native village of Longsa.
and bamboo shoot pickle to name a few. yyHer finished product passed the quality, taste and
packaging tests and was accepted deliciously by
yyWhile it is difficult for small scale agro-enterprise in her customers which enabled her to increase her
the poor infrastructure, rugged terrains North Eastern
hill regions to compete with the prices and volume supply base.
of production in plains and urban areas, nevertheless yyMrs. Marla employs only local laborers, which generates
approach to sustain, trade and sell quality products with employment opportunities for the local people in her
more remunerative price is really a success. village that assures her regular labour supply. Her
yyIn such a scenario, Mrs. Marla, an ambitious woman innovative mind motivated her to make her own vinegar
farmer from Longsa village under Ongpangkong North and cinnamon which are essential ingredients in pickle
ATMA block has overcome the barriers to become one of making.
the first successful women agripreneur of her block. yyShe tries to update her knowledge through trainings on
packaging of her products from the District Horticulture
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: Office which helps her stay ahead of the game and allows
yySmt. Marla’s story is truly remarkable in the pickle her to export the products within and outside the state.
making business which she launched during the year 2011
after attending a training on Food processing, organized yyHer products are in demand throughout the state and has
found customers in cities of Guwahati and Delhi.
by the District Horticulture Office at Mokokchung.
yyEquipped with her first hand knowledge on pickle yyHer future plan is to export her products to Israel under
the brand name ‘Longsa green chili pickle’.
making as a business her unwavering interest and sheer
determination she started with an initial capital of only yyA glimpse of her income is avident from the table below:
Rs. 18,360/-.
AWARDS/RECOGNITIONS:
ACHIEVEMENTS: yyMrs. Marla is the recipient of the District Level Best
yyMrs. Marla is the proud owner of ‘Longsa Green Chili Individual Farmer Award

PARTICULARS SALE VALUE PRODUCTION/YEAR GROSS INCOME(Rs) NET INCOME(Rs)

Green chili pickle 120/packet 4000 packets 3,00,000 1,61,750
Naga king chili 120/packet 4000 packets 3,91,000 1,76,040
Ginger pickle 120/packet 250 packets 20,000 5,175
Bamboo shoot pickle 120/packet 500 packets 60,000 16,890

46
 2020-21

SUCCESSFUL WOMAN
42 ENTREPRENEUR IN PAPAD
MAKING
Smt. Naorem Arundayarti Devi, Vill: Oinam Awang Leikai, District: Bishnupur, Manipur

INTRODUCTION: ACHIEVEMENTS :
yySmt. Naorem Arundayanti Devi (B.Sc), who belongs to yyAfter the introduction of her products to trainees and
Oinam Awang Leikai Village in Bishnupur district, is a select retailers, her flavoured Papad has gained popularity
successful Entrepreneur, who has set an example for the and it is now known as ‘Green Papad’ also.
women of Manipur.
yyThe demand has also picked up and she had already
yyHer first venture was as a fruit vendor at Kwairamband increased the production by inducting more manpower.
Keithel at Imphal.
yyMeanwhile, in recognition of her performance, she got
yyShe left her vending business in 2012 to start her new selected for Start-up Manipur (Idea stage) in 2019 and got
venture as an Entrepreneur in the field of food processing financial aid of Rs 3.00 lakhs (as subsidy).
without any formal training or skill.
yyHer Green Papad is also sold at Organic outlet of MOMA
yyShe started her production activities by producing pickle (Manipur Organic Mission Agency, a unit of Manipur
& candy with locally available raw materials. She sold the government).
products in the local retailers and friend circle.
yyDuring the present lockdown, due to corona virus it is
selling like hot cakes. The demand has increased manifold
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: and she is working overtime to meet the demand.
yyHowever, the income was not up to her satisfaction
yyPrior to the KVK Bishnupur intervention, her income was
and she approached KVK, Bishnupur in the year 2017,
very less. But now after the intervention and coupled with
seeking knowhow and guidance for improving her food
her hard work and sincerity, her income has increased
processing unit
manifold.
yyIn order to enhance the productivity and acceptability yyOver the last few months, she is earning a net income
of her products, it was felt that she needs some trainings
of about Rs. 30,000/- (Rupees Thirty thousand) per
on food processing. She was inducted in the 3 days on-
month which translate into Rs 3.6 lakhs per annum
campus training of preparation of papad, conducted at
approximately.
KVK, Bishnupur in June 2018.
yyPapad, which is primarily a snack item, is very popular yyShe is a successful Woman Entrepreneur and a perfect
example of women empowerment.
in Manipur and it’s eaten as a snack or along with meals
also. IMPACT ON OTHER FARMERS:
yySoon after the training she started production of value yyDuring the two trainings she got new contacts (Self-
added papad with added natural herbs (viz. Chinese Help Groups) among the trainees, from Bishnupur and
chives, Allium hookeri, Coriander, Mint etc.). Imphal west districts, who readily accepted to take up
yyShe was given further practical exposures in training the profession of papad making. And they have started
activities held at Seva Manipur (NGO) in May 2019 making papad at household level by taking raw materials
(Sponsored by Seva Manipur) and March 2020 from her.
(Sponsored by NABARD) which was technically
conducted by Subject Matter Specialist (SMS), Home AWARDS AND RECOGNITION:
Science, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Bishnupur. yyIn recognition of her works she was honoured as farm
yyIn both the training programs she was given first-hand woman by KVK Bishnupur, in the field of food processing
experience in demonstrating the preparation of papad, under the programme Mahila Kishan Divas held on 15th
Soya milk/paneer and black rice products. October 2017.

47
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

VALUE ADDITION FOR

43 ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT

Smt. Tarawati W/o Shri Prahalad Saini, Block: Hasangaj, District: Unnao, State: Uttar Pradesh

INTRODUCTION: yyProducts being prepared by the entrepreneur were packed

in Pet bottles and jars of 250gm, 500gm, 1.0kg and 5.0kg
yySmt. Tarawati was a simple housewife and farmwoman packing size, according to the demand and supply and
till 2008. She was engaged in household work, animal
husbandry and in agricultural activity. were sealed with aluminium foil to prevent leakage and
maintain quality of the product.
yyHer family have only 0.1 hectare land for cultivation of
crops including Mango Orchards. About 20-25% mango yyShe has 5 members in her family including her husband,
of this area is lost due to 4-5 wind storms during mango and 3 children. All are supporting and are engaged in
season which results great loss to mango growers. processing and marketing of the products according to
their efficiency.
yyWhatever were left and ripened was sold to villagers @
Rs. 7-9 per kg and her annual income from the mango yySo the entrepreneur does not need any extra manpower
orchard was only Rs. 3000- 4000. outside the family. This way, it has emerged as the family
based entrepreneurial venture.
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: yyLabelling of the product was done with the Support of the
yySmt. Tarawati came to Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) & KVK indicating ingredients used nutritional facts, Shelf
District Agriculture Department, for technical guidance life and other importantinformation.
with her problem and enthusiasm to do something for yyShe processed about 37 quintals of raw mangoes for
betterment of her family and attended few training preparing pickle, mango slices and powder in a season.
programmes. She starts the works of mango products preparation from
yyIn the year 2009 she was selected as the partner women the mid of April and works up to mid of July.
farmer in the project entitled “Empowerment of rural
women through value addition of Mango fruit” run by Economics of Smt. Tarawati’s enterprise:
KVK and sponsored by Department of Bio Technology, Particulars Mango Pickle Mango slices Mango Powder
New Delhi. Cost of Production Rs. 48/kg Rs. 50/kg Rs. 100/kg
Cost of Selling Rs. 85/kg Rs. 110/kg Rs. 180/kg
ACHIEVEMENTS: Profit : Time ratio 4000 – 4500 500-600 per 350-400 per
yyShe started value addition of Mango from her own per month month month
Orchard Cost Benefit Ratio 1:1.77 1:2.2 1:1.8
Net profit (Rs/year) 55500.00 6000.00 4800.00
yyDue to resource poor and lack of availability of land with
her, she is utilizing processing, packing and labelling
facility of KVK, Unnao with payment of nominal IMPORTANCE TO OTHER FARMERS:
institutional charges. yySmt. Tarawati’s success is motivating other farm women
of the village and presently 8 more women of the village
yyNow after 09 years of her intervention she and her family are engaged in processing activities.
are earning Rs. 60,000.00 to 65,000.00 per annum as a
profit and living their life happily. Her products include
AWARD &RECOGNITION :
mango pickle, powder and slices.
yyShe prepares pickles and powder according to the demand yySmt. Tarawati has been nominated as one of the
contestant for Best Farm Women Award being organized
of market. Her husband Mr Prahalad Saini is actively
by Doordarshan Kisan Under Krishi Reality Show.
engaged in marketing of the products as well as processing.

48
 2020-21

VALUE ADDITION AND

44 MARKETING OF MINOR
MILLETS
Smt Saroja N Patel, Vill: Nittur PO: Nittur Block: Harapanhalli, Dist: Devanagere, Karna-
taka PIN: 577530 Ph No: 9900769719

INTRODUCTION: Year Cost (Rs) Returns (Rs)

yySmt. Saroja N. Patil from Nittur village of Davanagere 2014-15 1,90,000 2,15,000
district has successfully taken up value addition and
marketing of minor millets. Educated upto pre-university, 2015-16 2,05,000 2,45,000
owns 11 ha land at Nittur, HariharaTq., Davanagere Dist. 2016-17 2,57,000 3,48,000
The family cultivates rice (8 ha), finger millet (1.6 ha),
GPU-28 variety, Coconut (1.6 ha) and arecanut (0.6 ha). 2017-18 2,80,000 4,18,000
Livestock comprises of cows (7 nos), buffalo (6 nos) and 2018-19 3,10,570 4,44,500
poultry unit (12000 birds). The farm is mechanized with
2019-20 3,29,800 4,78,700
Tractor-1, Fodder Cutter-1, Conoweeder-3, Flour mill for
preparation of minor millet malt.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION:
yySmt. Saroja N. Patil’s family has been growing organic
finger millet (1-2 ha) for many years. The normal process yyThe achievements in farming and value addition brought
is to sell the produce immediately after harvest. The profit her many prestigious awards notable among them include:
margins in this practice are less considering increased yy‘Environment Award’ by Government of Karnataka
cost of production in Finger millet especially harvesting during 2011
and threshing.Smt.Saroja, being a member of Scientific yy‘Krishi Pandit’ award by Government of Karnataka in
Advisory Committee of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) 2008-09 and
underwent training on value addition. Krishi Vigyan
Kendra also provided the initial opportunities to sell the
yy‘Mahindra Samruddhi Agri Award’ by Mahindra and
Mahindra group in 2013. She also participated in live-
value-added products in ‘Saturday Organic Bazaar’ at in programme by DD-Chandana (Kannada) and farm
KVK campus and in other exhibitions. women entrepreneur enclave by DD-Kisan (New Delhi).
ACHIEVEMENTS: yyFurther, Smt. Saroja N. Patil is invited regularly by Krishi
Vigyan Kendra and Agriculture Department as resource
yyEstablished mini flour mill for preparation of malt and person during trainings and extension programmes.
started value addition process during 2014-15.
yyHer products include organically produced Malt, Energy IMPORTANCE TO OTHER FARMERS:
mix, Ginger Chetney, Pickles, Minor millet Roti, Dry
fruits laddu, Millet snacks (Pakoda), Finger millet
yySmt. Saroja N. Patil who hails from rural background
utilized every available mass media for gaining
Vermicelli which are sold through organic institutions like knowledge and marketing of value added products. She
‘SahajaSamrudha, Benglauru, Saturday organic Bazaar in subscribes to daily newspapers and magazines to increase
ICAR-Taralabalu Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Davanagere and her knowledge base and current information.
in Krishi melas and through online trading.
yyApart from regular listener to radio, she also has given
yyAll the products are packed with brand name of interview through AIR-Bhadravati and AIR-Chitradurga.
‘Thadvanam’with FASSI registration.
yyShe suggests and appeals to women to come forward
yyThe value addition unit by Smt. Saroja N. Patil has earned to acquire knowledge, information and skill to excel
net profit of Rs. 1.49 lakh during 2019-20. in various aspects of farming sector according to one’s
yyA glimpse of the economic returns of the unit: choice and ability.

49
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

SUCCESS STORY OF VALUE

45 ADDED PRODUCTS OF RAGI

Smt. Rajeswari, Vill: Haradanahalli, Dist: Chamarajanagar, Karnataka

INTRODUCTION: up it as an enterprise.
yySmt. Rajeshwari aged about 40 years resides at yyKVK Chamarajanagar enrolled her in the entrepreneurship
Haradanahalli village of Chamarajanagar taluk educated development programme on value addition to ragi and
upto primary school. She is a single parent with three market linkage during the year 2011-12 and supported her
children and has no lands. with few critical inputs to start the enterprise and guided
her regarding the scientific packaging and labeling and
yyShe used to stitch cloth and worked as farm labour in helped to get FSSAI License.
other farmers field to earn daily bread. Her income could
hardly meet the monthly expenses of the family. yyShe got good response from the consumers and now she is
preparing and selling different ragi products like pappad,
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: malt and mixture. She sells pappad @ Rs. 0.80/pappad&
yyOnce through Dept. of Women & Child Welfare, she malt @ Rs. 200/kg and mixture @ Rs. 225/kg and earns
attended the training programme on Income generating good monthly income about Rs. 15,000-20,000/month.
activities for livelihood of land less laborers at Krishi yyShe sells nearly 5000 pappads, 15-20 kg malt, and 10
Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chamarajanagar in the year 2010. kg mixture/month and she has given employment to two
She was very much fascinated by the information given other women also.
during training.
yyThen she started approaching KVK & District Agriculture AWARDS AND RECOGNITION:
Department for information and attended hands on yyNow she participates as a resource person in KVK &
trainings conducted on value added products of different agriculture department training programme conducted for
agriculture produce. women.
yyShe already had some skills of preparing rice papads. So, yyShe got her daughters married done and her son is helping
she got trained her to prepare ragi value added products her in marketing.
like pappad, malt, hurihittu and chakkali.
IMPACT ON OTHER FARMERS/ STOKEHOLDERS:
ACHIEVEMENTS: yyNow she is leading a happy and satisfied life because of
yyIn the beginning she started to prepare malt and ragi her efforts and dedication to achieve this empowerment.
papad for home consumption then distributed among yyRole model for other poor women who have imbibed
neighbours and relatives and got good responses from inspiration from her to take small activity to earn extra
them. It motivated and inspired Smt. Rajeshwari to take income.

50
 2020-21

SOYBEAN PROCESSING-A
46 SUITABLE REMUNERATIVE
ENTERPRISE
Smt.Suman Sharma, Vill: Balita, Tehsil: Ladpura, Dist: Kota, Rajasthan,
Contact No.9460853746

INTRODUCTION: per month.

yySmt. Suman Sharma resides in village Balita, with her yyAs master trainer she attended more than 75 training
husband Sh. Akhil Sharma and other family members. programmes and trained more than 1000 women and
Recently, she is residing at Nayapura, Kota, Rajasthan. earned approximately Rs. 1-1.5 Lakhs in a year.
yyShe is a graduate and having joint family of eight members, yyShe has also demonstrated her products in Organic
including her two children and in laws.Smt. Suman Sharma festival Delhi (organised by Ministry of Food Processing
belongs to a lower middle-class farm family. Industry) and earned more than Rs.30,000/-. She also
got order to supply 200 quintal amla candy @ Rs.300kg,
yyShe always wanted to find a better way to earn income recently.
to become self-dependent and her dreams come true with
establishment of a small Soya Processing Unit in the year yyThe Economics of her entrepreneurial venture of
2014. processed products of soybean (Laddu, Nuts, Flour etc.)
is briefed here under-
TRAINING AND MOTIVATION: Establishment Expenditure (Rs.) 2, 00, 000.00
yyShe participated in one-month training programme on
Annual Soya Product Production (Qtl) 12
food processing & value addition of regional crops in
the year 2014 organized at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kota. Average Sale Price of Soya Products 120-300
During training, she learned about processing techniques, (Rs. per kg)
value addition, packaging, marketing, labelling, cost Annual income (Rs.) 10,00,000.00
calculation of products.
Annual expenditure (Rs. 4,00,000.00
yyAfter completion of training, she engaged herself in
experimental work for 2-3 months for standardization Annual net income (Rs.) 5,00,000 to 6,00,000
of her processed products of soybean & aonla, finally
established her own Small Unit of Soybean Processed CONTRIBUTING FACTORS:
products viz. Soybean Laddu, Nuts, Flour etc.
yySmt. Suman Sharma is self-confident, well educated,
ACHIEVEMENTS: having very good communicative skills, and have basic
entrepreneurial skills of dealing with wide range of
yyAt the time of starting of the venture of Soybean processing people.
Smt. Suman Sharma was having her own saving of Rs.
2 lakhs, which become her capital investment, a very
crucial resource for her dare and adventure. She used roof
AWARDS/RECOGNITION:
top area of her house converting to it hall of 20’x 15’ by yyShe got appreciation award as women entrepreneur by
covering with tin shed to install the processing machinery former Agriculture Minister Sh. Prabhu Lal Saini; Mayor
and working space. of Kota; and FEGC, Jaipur for her achievements.
yyShe constituted an NGO of 100 women entrepreneurs yyShe has been invited to share her success with masses on
named as “Siddi Vinayak” and a Self-Help Group AIR,Kota and DD, Kisan channel.
“RISHI-TANVI” for food processing entrepreneurship
development. IMPORTANCE FOR OTHER FARMERS:
yyShe procured ‘FSSAI’ number and ‘Shop Act Number’, yySmt. Suman Sharma is working as a master trainer and
to become a registered entrepreneur. gave her services in more than 75 training programmes
yyShe formulated group sale processed products on order organized by Jan Shikshan Sansthan, Prodh Shiksha,
basis as home delivery and also exhibited products in CFCL, Gadhean and KVK, Kota and trained more than
different melas and now she is earning about Rs.40, 000 1000 women.

51
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

MUSHROOM PROCESSING
47 AND VALUE ADDITION

Smt. Nidhi Katare, Address - Nirala Nagar, Singhpur Road, Gwalior (M.P.)

INTORUDCTION: IMPORTANCE FOR FARMERS:

yySmt. Nidhi Katare is from Nirala Nagar, Singhpur yyPotential : Smt. Nidhi Katare’s positive attitude has proven
Road, Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh). She is a successful that there is a direct linkage between entrepreneurship &
mushroom entrepreneur presently guiding farmers for acceptance level, horizontal spread of innovation and
mushroom cultivation and has 75 farmers from M. P. and number of farmer adopting a technology.
other states who are regular client of mushroom spwan
yyA regular client of 75 farmers from the Madhya Pradesh
and her registered a company with her husband. and outside receiving mushroom spawn. The farmers
from Gwalior, Morena, Bhind, Datia, Indore, Khargone,
TRAINING: Bhopal, Dhar, Anooppur (Madhya Pradesh), Jaipur and
yyShe participated in training on “Mushroom Production” Dholpur (Rajasthan), Mevat (Haryana), Ambikapur,
organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Gwalior. Vishrampur (Chhattisgarh) are getting quality spawn.
yySkill development through training on scientific spawn yy Presently producing 9000 kg spawn of P. florida and P.
production & exposure visit to successful enterprise. sajor-cajuin a year.
ACHIEVEMENTS: yyTraining to 110 farmers and rural youth from M.P.,
Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan has been provided.
yyStarted spawn production of oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus
florida) in 2015. The Directorate of Mushroom Research, yyVarious organizations invite for delivering lectures as an
Solan (Himachal Pradesh) had provided pure culture. agri-enterpreneur.

yyShe had set up a small spawn production unit in 1500 AWARDS & RECOGNITION:
sq. ft. rented area in Gwalior. She has a regular clientele
75 farmers from the Madhya Pradesh and outside . The yySuccess story telecast by DD Kisan Channel on
30/03/2017.
farmers from Gwalior, Morena, Bhind, Datia, Indore,
Khargone, Bhopal, Dhar, Anooppur (Madhya Pradesh), yySuccess story published in ICAR-Kheti Magzine.
Jaipur and Dholpur (Rajasthan), Mevat (Haryana), (January-2018 PP:54) and also covered from regional
Ambikapur & Vishrampur (Chhattisgarh) newspapers from time to time.

yyShe presently produces 9000 kg spawn of P. florida and yyAwards State level: Appreciation Certification by KVK,
P. sajor-caju in a year. She has registered a company Gwalior on Mahila Kisan diwas on Oct.15,2018, Prize on
Natural Bio impact and Research Private Limited. various category of mushroom organized by RVSKVV,
Gwalior and Directorate of Horticulture and Food
Processing ,Bhopal on Feb 22-23,2018

52
 2020-21

WEALTH AND HEALTH FROM

48 ORGANIC WASTE

Smt. Girija Prasad, Vill: Evoor, Dist: Alappuzha, Kerala

INTRODUCTION: offices.
yySmt. Girija Prasad is a diploma holder in agriculture yyIncreased demand from hoteliers pushed her to construct
hailing from Evoor village of Cheppad Panchayath, one more low cost shed by the side of her house, thus
Alappuzha district. She belongs to a financially poor establishing the Sneha Mushroom unit. Continuous
family consisting of four members having a land holding support from the KVK through telephonic helpline
of 15 cents only. services and regular visits to her unit, could enable her to
produce up to a tonne of fresh produce annually.
yyShe earned her livelihood by conducting tuition classes
which fetched her Rs.2500/ – 3000/- per month. Her yyDuring summer months, owing to the reduction in yield
physically challenged husband earns daily wages through of oyster mushroom, she could not meet the demand from
miscellaneous occupation. consumers.

TRAINING & MOTIVATION:

yyAt this juncture, KVK selected her as a partner of OFT
programme on milky mushroom Calocyb agambosa.
yyBeing a regular viewer of agriculture related programmes The yield from this mushroom was more during summer
in Doordarshan and reader of agricultural magazines she months and it was free from pests and diseases.
happened to see a television programme on mushroom
success story which inspired her to initiate its cultivation.
yyThe positive and encouraging results made her to integrate
oyster mushroom with milky mushroom so that she could
yyMeanwhile one of her relatives, who attended the training get a sustainable income throughout the year.
on mushroom production in the Krishi Vigyan Kendra
(KVK), provided a packet of mushroom to her, which she
yyKVK provided the vermicomposting technology by which
she could recycle the spent substrate into vermicompost
cultivated carefully. to earn an additional income from the waste in addition to
yyShe attended the training on Oyster mushroom cultivation own use for vegetable cultivation.
at KVK during 2008. Then she started mushroom
cultivation within the house by using the spawn purchased
yyShe earn Rs.15,000/- – 20,000/- per month through
a production of 0.5 – 1 ton of mushroom per year and
from the KVK. selling @ Rs. 350/kg
yyInspired by the initial success, with the enduring support yyThus, her Average income from the unit was Rs.3.6 lakhs/
from her husband she constructed a low cost mushroom yr with a production cost of Rs.1.44 lakhs.
production unit attached to her house and started
producing mushroom regularly. She started collecting IMPACT ON OTHER FARMERS/ STAKEHOLDERS:
paddy straw from nearby paddy fields free of cost, which
made her vocation profitable.
yyBy this time, as an experienced master farmer, she started
offering hands-on-training to farm women groups, and
youths including college and school students helping in
ACHIEVEMENTS:
disseminating the technology.
yyShe expanded her venture by attending several
programmes related to mushroom conducted by the KVK yyShe has set an ideal example that with as small as 15
and District Agriculture Department. She was included cents land holding she could earn high income and
in exposure visits to many mushroom units conducted as nutritional benefits through the daily consumption and
part of trainings. indirect income through organic production of vegetables
using the composted spent substrate. Many resource poor
yyBased on the experience and interactions with other women has come up with small mushroom production
entrepreneurs through KVK networking, she marketed units in the area.
the produce directly to vegetarian hotels, schools and

53
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

MUSHROOM CULTIVATION
49 CONFERRED RECOGNITION

Smt Pratibha Jha Village: Mirzapur Hansi, PO: Jagannathpur, Block: Biraul, District: Darb-
hanga, Bihar- 848209

INTRODUCTION: yyShe puts around 1000 bags of mushroom per batch and
harvests around 10/- kgs per day and sells at the rate of
yySmt Pratibha Jha is a progressive lady with a zeal to do Rupees 100-150 per kg. She also produces mushroom
something substantial to benefit her family economically
and her society. She studied up to 12th class before her spawn for herself and for sale.
marriage. Her family possess 2 ha land which is irrigated. yyShe sells all the produce from home in retail mode. She
Her husband is in agriculture and dairying, fisheries, also goes for drying in case of excess production and less
vermicompost production. He availed training in fisheries sale.
and vermicomposting at Bihar Agricultural University, yyNow, her earning from mushroom is about Rs 30,000
Bhagalpur through ATMA, Darbhanga. (rupees thirty thousand) per month. She is striving to
increase to Rs 1 lakh per month in the near future.
TRAINING AND MOTIVATION:
yyAs a house maker in an agriculturist family she used to AWARDS AND RECOGNITION:
actively help her husband in all her agricultural activities. yyShe was conferred with the Babu Jagajeevan Ram Award
She was inclined towards home-based economic activity on 23 December (2017) at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central
rd

and decided to pursue mushroom cultivation. Agricultural University on the occasion of ‘Mushroom
yyThrough the ATMA, Darbhanga she availed a 2-3 days Day’.
training programme at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central yyShe was awarded the State Level Best Mushroom Farmer
Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur on Mushroom Award during the celebration of Bihar Statehood Day on
and spawn production. 22-24 March (2018). She had put a Mushroom stall at the
yyShe was provided opportunity for exposure visits and exhibition there.
other training programmes to Agricultural Universities, yyWhile recognizing her contribution to Mushroom
KVK and Kishan melas by ATMA which increased her cultivation, a ‘Kisan Gosthi’ was organized by ATMA,
confidence and knowledge. Darbhanga at her residential premise wherein the Project
Director, ATMA; Mushroom scientists Dr. Dayaram and
ACHIEVEMENTS: Director of Extension Education Dr. A.K. Singh from Dr.
yyWith knowledge and information gathered, she started Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University were
mushroom production at a small scale on 2nd Oct 2016 present.
with an initial investment of Rs 300/- (Rupees Three
Hundred only). IMPORTANE TO OTHER FARMERS:
yyNow she is producing three types of mushroom- oysters, yyEveryone in the village appreciates Smt. Pratibha’s zeal
button and milky mushroom throughout the year and she and endeavor. Women of nearby villages have learnt the
she engages 2-3 laborers per day in her unit which is a production techniques from her and established small
great help to daily laborers. units. This is helping them to earn additional income
which serves as hard cash to the women-folk. Her
yyShe has also learnt to prepare as many as 31 mushroom
recipes. She makes Adauri, Papad, Mushroom-Sattu, message to other farmers is “eku yks rks gkj gS] Bku yks
Mushroom-Besan, Peda, Gulab Jamun, Jalebi blending rks thr gS” (if you concede defeat, you are a loser; if you
with mushroom. decide to fight, you are a winner).

54
 2020-21

SUCCESS STORY OF RAIN

50 WATER HARVESTING

Smt. Phyrnailang Kurkalang, Village: Mawjrong, C & RD Block: Khatarshnong-Laitkroh,

District: East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya

INTRDUCTION: TRAINING:
yyMawjrong is a village which falls under the Khatarshnong- yyWith the help of PMKSY & ATMA, it has assisted her to
Laitkroh C & RD block, the farmers here are highly make another Jalkund (reservoir) in which she collected
dependent on rainfall for farming and the lack of regular the rainwater and used the water for irrigating the
supply of water for irrigation makes it difficult for the polyhouse, the crops in the field, for feeding the cows,
farmers to make their ends meet. The village receives pigs and poultry and also for household use.
an average rainfall of 12000 mm every year, but inspite
of receiving heavy rainfall water scarcity is still an issue ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES
as they are unaware of the water conservation or water AND ACHIEVEMENT:
harvesting techniques. yyThe initiative of Jalkund or water reservoir has been a
yySmt. Phyrnailang Kurkalang, a farmer of this same village great success as it has increased her production on the farm
also suffers the same fate as the other residents. Her main and the availability of water has helped her in expansion
obstacle is that water needed for the basic needs also of the cattle rearing, pig rearing and poultry. This has
has to be bought. Moreover, she faces more difficulty in also given her the opportunity to make more sheds for
rearing of cattle, pigs and poultry and cultivation of crops. the animals and provide proper water for feeding and for
To combat this problem Smt. Phyrnailang Kurkalang cleaning the sheds. Her initiative has been a boon for her
initiated water harvesting, she came up with an innovative neighbours too as they have followed the example set by
idea of making a small ditch just outside of her kitchen her and have greatly benefited through this.
where she collected all the used household water, which
she used for cleaning the animal sheds.

55
Inspiring Stories of Progressive Women Farmers

SUCCESS IN AGRO-FORESTRY
51
Smt Gurmeet Kaur, W/o ShriGurmeet Singh Village: Pathlawa, Block: Banga,
District:S.B.S.Nagar, Punjab. Contact details: 9914598226

INTRODUCTION: and Horticulture.

yySmt Gurmeet Kaur W/o S. Gurmeet Singh lives in village. yyShe owns 8.0 acre, out of which 4 acre is under Poplar
She is very determined, wise, innovative and hardworking and mixed cropping. She is growing vegetables on 2.0
lady. She used to help her father in agriculture during acre, 1.5 acre maize and fodder on 0.5 acre. During the
childhood. After getting married, she does farming with year 2005-06 she has earned 9.0 lakh from 4.0 acre by
well planned manner. growing poplar.
yyShe owns 8 acres land with a tubewell. She is ex member yyDuring Rabi season, she always intercrops wheat and
of village Co-operative Society, village Gram Panchayat cauliflower, mustard in poplar field. During Kharif
and Ex President of village Mahila Mandal. season, she is doing intercropping of Cucurbits (Gourd)
with poplar from which, she is earning good income.
yyShe always applies inputs in the consultation with experts This year she earned Rs 30,000 by growing lady finger
from Department of Agriculture and Horticulture and
adopted latest Package of Practices of crops cultivation. on 4 kanal. For cultivation of Lady finger crop she adopts
Due to her adoption of improved practices in agriculture innovative and advanced agricultural practices, which
and allied sectors on her farm, natural resources and farm helps in improvement of yield of crop by branching .
friendly organisms and birds are saved considerably. She yyHer farm is well connected to the nearby local market.
never burns the crop residue and prefers to decompose She has well aerated godowns for storage of grains. She
the crop waste into the soil. It helps in improvement of sells her produce very intelligently. During glut period she
organic matter of soil. stores her produce and sells it in lean period. She believes
in self marketing. Due to good quality of her produce, she
yyDue to proper utilization of Farm Yard Manure and fetches good price in the market.
recommended dose of chemicals and fertilizers in her
field, product quality of output improved considerably. yyShe is an innovative farmer and always interested in
adoption of new techniques of crop cultivation. She
yySmt GurmeetKaur showing her training certificate and is early riser and monitors her fields regularly. She is
with Poplar Plantation
very hard worker. All family members work together
TRAINING & MOTIVATION: in field operations and hire labours in peak season of
crop. She applies the fertilizer in the fields on the basis
yyShe always participates in Exposure Visits and Farm
of soil testing. She adds green manure in her fields and
Training camps organized under ATMA scheme.
Demonstrations on latest techniques of crop cultivation never burns the crop residue in the field, which helps in
are conducted on her farm under ATMA scheme. maintain the organic matter of soil. She has also adopted
subsidiary occupations like vegetables cultivation, small
yyShe has obtained training on dairy from Department of dairy farming and back yard poultry. She has six milch
Animal Husbandry; Institute of Dairy Improvement; animals and eight small calves. She sells approx. 15-16 lt.
Phagwara and Bee Keeping training from Punjab milk through self marketing in her village and earns Rs.
Agricultural University, Ludhiana. 700 per day.
ADOPTION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, PRACTICES IMPORTANCE TO FARMERS:
AND ACHIEVEMENTS:
yyShe motivated her well qualified son to start backyard
yyShe is doing diversification in Agriculture with vegetables, poultry with 300 Desi birds. Family get good income by
maize and agro-forestry. She is availing facility of selling of desi eggs through self marketing. She is torch
subsidy on seed, pesticides, spray pumps and farm bearer for all the farmers of her village.
implements provided from Department of Agriculture

56