Bahraich’s Bamboo Market & Multi-Layer Farming Boost Incomes in UP
Uttar Pradesh, considered one of the most populous and economically vibrant states in India, is setting new development benchmarks in its aspirational districts. Bahraich, one of these districts, is transforming rural livelihoods through innovative initiatives that are empowering women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) and increasing farmer incomes.
B-2 Market: Empowering Women-Led SHGs
In a pioneering effort, Bahraich district administration has launched a bamboo-based B-2 market, which is providing a platform for women-led SHGs to showcase their handcrafted bamboo products. The market, located in the heart of Bahraich city, is a one-stop-shop where customers can buy a variety of bamboo products, including baskets, chairs, and other household items.
The B-2 market has not only created new income opportunities for women but also helped to promote sustainable livelihoods in rural areas. The district administration has identified over 200 women-led SHGs, which are now actively involved in the production and sale of bamboo products. These SHGs are generating significant income, which is helping to improve their economic status and overall well-being.
Multi-Layer Farming: Increasing Farmer Incomes
In addition to the B-2 market, Bahraich district administration has also launched a multi-layer farming initiative, which is promoting sustainable agriculture practices and increasing farmer incomes. The multi-layer farming model involves planting Napier grass and gourds on the same land, which not only increases crop yields but also reduces the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Farmer organizations, such as the Bahraich Farmers Producer Company (FPO), are actively involved in the multi-layer farming initiative. These FPOs are working closely with local agricultural experts to identify suitable crop combinations and provide training to farmers on sustainable farming practices.
The multi-layer farming initiative has not only improved crop yields but also increased farmer incomes. According to district officials, the initiative has helped to increase the yield of Napier grass by 200% and gourds by 150%. This has led to a significant increase in farmer incomes, which is helping to improve their economic status and overall well-being.
Linking Local FPOs to Big Markets
To further boost farmer incomes, Bahraich district administration has signed an MoU with Patanjali, a leading Indian consumer goods company, for the procurement of turmeric. This MoU is linking local FPOs to big markets, providing farmers with a guaranteed market for their produce.
The MoU is expected to benefit over 5,000 farmers in Bahraich district, who will be able to sell their turmeric produce to Patanjali at a competitive price. This will not only increase farmer incomes but also help to reduce the post-harvest losses that are common in the agricultural sector.
Conclusion
Bahraich’s bamboo market and multi-layer farming initiatives are setting new benchmarks for grassroots economic empowerment in Uttar Pradesh. The initiatives are empowering women-led SHGs, increasing farmer incomes, and promoting sustainable livelihoods in rural areas.
The district administration’s efforts to link local FPOs to big markets, such as the MoU with Patanjali, are also helping to create new income opportunities for farmers. As the district continues to implement these initiatives, it is likely to emerge as a model of grassroots economic empowerment in Uttar Pradesh.
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