Bahraich’s Bamboo Market & Multi-Layer Farming Boost Incomes in UP
Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district is transforming rural livelihoods with innovative initiatives that are 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 setting new benchmarks for grassroots economic empowerment.
The bamboo-based B-2 market is a pioneering effort that brings together women-led SHGs to produce and market bamboo products. The market is a result of a partnership between the Bahraich district administration, the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission (UPSRM), and the Self-Help Group Federation of Uttar Pradesh (SHG-FED). The initiative has not only provided a platform for women to earn a steady income but has also helped to promote sustainable farming practices.
The multi-layer farming practice, on the other hand, is a game-changer for farmers in Bahraich. This innovative approach involves growing multiple crops on the same land, including Napier grass and gourds. The practice has increased farmer incomes by providing a diversified source of income and reducing the dependence on a single crop. The initiative is being promoted by the Uttar Pradesh Department of Agriculture and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
The district’s farmers are also set to benefit from a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Bahraich district administration and Patanjali Ayurved Limited for the procurement of turmeric. The MoU links local Farmers’ Producer Organizations (FPOs) to big markets, providing them with a stable market for their produce and ensuring a better price for their turmeric. This initiative is expected to benefit over 10,000 farmers in the district, providing them with a steady income and improving their livelihoods.
Bahraich is one of the 11 aspirational districts in Uttar Pradesh, which has been identified for its poor socio-economic indicators. The district has a high child mortality rate, low literacy rate, and a significant proportion of population living below the poverty line. However, the district administration and development agencies are working together to address these challenges and bring about meaningful change.
The bamboo-based B-2 market and multi-layer farming practices are just two examples of the innovative initiatives being implemented in Bahraich to address the challenges faced by rural communities. The district is also implementing other initiatives, including animal husbandry, dairy farming, and horticulture, to provide a diversified source of income for farmers.
The success of these initiatives can be attributed to the strong partnership between the district administration, development agencies, and local communities. The partnership has enabled the district to leverage resources and expertise to implement innovative solutions that address the specific needs of rural communities.
Bahraich’s success is a model for other districts in Uttar Pradesh and beyond. The district’s innovative approach to rural development has the potential to be replicated in other parts of the state and the country, providing a platform for rural communities to improve their livelihoods and reduce their dependence on government support.
In conclusion, Bahraich’s bamboo market and multi-layer farming practices are a testament to the power of innovation and partnership in rural development. The district’s initiatives are not only providing a platform for women-led SHGs and farmers to earn a steady income but are also promoting sustainable farming practices and linking local FPOs to big markets. As the district continues to work towards its development goals, it is clear that the future is bright for Bahraich and its rural communities.
