Hazaribag Farmers Achieve Self-Reliance Through Govt Schemes and Modern Techniques
In Hazaribag district, Neetu Kumari, aged 26, and Dinesh Ganjhu, aged 30, stand as inspiring examples of how government support combined with modern farming techniques is empowering rural farmers to achieve self-reliance and sustainable income. Their success stories highlight the transformative impact of agricultural initiatives in enhancing livelihoods and promoting chemical-free cultivation.
Neetu Kumari's Journey with Organic Cucumber Farming
Neetu Kumari was motivated to adopt pest-free farming after learning about the benefits available under the natural farming initiative through the horticulture department of the state agriculture department. She began cultivating organic cucumbers on approximately five cottah of land. Today, she produces around 150 to 200 kilograms of cucumbers daily. Due to high demand during the summer season, she earns nearly Rs 4,000 per day from her harvest.
District horticulture officer Jaswant Kumar noted that Neetu also receives a monthly incentive of Rs 300 under the National Mission on Natural Farming, which aims to promote chemical-free cultivation. Neetu emphasized that the training and support from the department have enabled her to achieve higher production in a smaller area. This has not only increased her income but also improved her family's standard of living significantly.
Dinesh Ganjhu's Success with Strawberry Cultivation
Similarly, farmer Dinesh Ganjhu, hailing from the same area, has carved out his own success story through strawberry cultivation on one acre of land. He availed a government scheme for a greenhouse and 20,000 strawberry saplings. Through consistent efforts inside the greenhouse, he achieved bumper production this season. At present, he prepares nearly 1,000 packets of strawberries daily and supplies them to the market, earning approximately Rs 20,000 a day amid rising demand.
Dinesh is now planning to expand his farming activities by cultivating different varieties of fruits across seasons, aiming to further grow his agricultural enterprise and diversify his income sources.
Government Training and Support Programs
On the training module, horticulture officer Jaswant Kumar explained that enrolled farmers are provided a three-day training programme. During this programme, they are taught improved and scientific methods of vegetable cultivation, equipping them with the skills needed for sustainable and productive farming practices.
These initiatives underscore the government's commitment to fostering agricultural innovation and rural development, helping farmers like Neetu and Dinesh thrive in today's competitive market.
