Bahraich’s Bamboo Market & Multi-Layer Farming Boost Incomes in UP
Uttar Pradesh, known for its rich agricultural heritage, is gradually transforming rural livelihoods in its aspirational districts. Bahraich, one such district, is leading the way with innovative initiatives aimed at empowering women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) and increasing farmer incomes. The district’s bamboo-based B-2 market and multi-layer farming practices are testament to its commitment to grassroots economic development.
The bamboo-based B-2 market is a game-changer for women-led SHGs in Bahraich. B-2 markets are a unique concept where local artisans and farmers sell their products directly to consumers, eliminating middlemen and ensuring higher profits. In Bahraich, the B-2 market is centered around bamboo products, which are in high demand in the region. Women-led SHGs have taken the initiative to collect bamboo from local farmers and artisans, processing it into various products such as bamboo sticks, mats, and baskets.
The B-2 market not only provides a platform for women-led SHGs to sell their products but also empowers them to take control of their income generation. With the market’s direct-to-consumer model, women are able to negotiate better prices for their products, increasing their earnings significantly. This initiative has not only improved the economic status of women in Bahraich but also promoted sustainable livelihoods and community development.
In addition to the bamboo-based B-2 market, Bahraich is also promoting multi-layer farming practices, which are revolutionizing agriculture in the district. Multi-layer farming involves growing multiple crops simultaneously, such as Napier grass and gourds, on the same land. This approach not only increases crop yields but also reduces soil degradation and conserves water resources.
Napier grass, a perennial crop, is a cash crop that is in high demand in the region. Farmers are able to sell Napier grass at a premium price, increasing their income significantly. Gourds, another crop grown in multi-layer farming, are used as a vegetable and fetch a good price in local markets. The practice of multi-layer farming has not only improved farmer incomes but also promoted sustainable agriculture practices, reducing the district’s environmental footprint.
The district’s efforts to promote multi-layer farming and bamboo-based B-2 markets have not gone unnoticed. The district administration has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Patanjali, a leading FMCG company, for the procurement of turmeric from local Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). This initiative links local farmers directly to big markets, providing them with better prices and increasing their income.
The success of Bahraich’s bamboo market and multi-layer farming practices has set a new benchmark for development in the district. The district’s commitment to empowering women-led SHGs and promoting sustainable livelihoods has made it a model for grassroots economic empowerment. The district’s innovative approach to agriculture and entrepreneurship has not only improved the economic status of farmers and artisans but also promoted community development and social cohesion.
Uttar Pradesh’s aspirational districts, such as Bahraich, are leading the way in showcasing the state’s development potential. The district’s innovative initiatives are a testament to the state’s commitment to empowering its citizens and promoting economic growth. As the district continues to evolve and grow, it is likely to inspire other districts to follow suit, making Uttar Pradesh a model for sustainable development and grassroots economic empowerment.
News Source:
https://thecsrjournal.in/up-aspirational-districts-set-new-development-benchmarks-bahraich-shravasti-maharajgan/
