Bahraich’s Bamboo Market & Multi-Layer Farming Boost Incomes in UP
Uttar Pradesh is on a mission to transform the lives of its rural population, and Bahraich district is leading the way. With a unique combination of bamboo-based B-2 markets and multi-layer farming, the district is empowering women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) and increasing farmer incomes. Additionally, an MoU with Patanjali for turmeric procurement is linking local Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to big markets, making Bahraich a model of grassroots economic empowerment.
The Bamboo Market: A Game-Changer for Women
The bamboo market, also known as B-2 market, is a novel initiative that has given a new lease of life to rural women in Bahraich. The market is a platform where women-led SHGs can sell bamboo products, such as handicrafts, furniture, and other items, directly to consumers. This initiative has not only created a new source of income for the women but has also helped to reduce their dependence on traditional occupations like farming.
The B-2 market is managed by the Bahraich District Administration in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh State Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation. The market is equipped with modern facilities, including a showroom, storage area, and transportation facilities. The women-led SHGs are responsible for producing the bamboo products, which are then sold at the market.
Multi-Layer Farming: A Boost to Farmer Incomes
Multi-layer farming is another innovative approach that is revolutionizing agriculture in Bahraich district. This method involves growing multiple crops on the same land, including Napier grass and gourds, which are high-value crops. The multi-layer farming system not only increases farmer incomes but also reduces the use of pesticides and fertilizers, making it an eco-friendly approach.
The multi-layer farming system is being promoted by the Bahraich District Administration in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh government’s agriculture department. The department provides training and technical assistance to farmers, who are then encouraged to adopt the multi-layer farming system. The Napier grass and gourds are sold in the market, providing an additional source of income for the farmers.
Linking Local FPOs to Big Markets
To further boost the incomes of farmers and SHGs, the Bahraich District Administration has signed an MoU with Patanjali, a leading FMCG company, for the procurement of turmeric. The MoU is expected to benefit over 5,000 farmers and SHGs in the district, who will now be able to sell their turmeric produce directly to Patanjali.
The MoU is a significant milestone in the journey of grassroots economic empowerment in Bahraich. It will not only provide a new market for farmers and SHGs but also help to reduce the middlemen and increase the prices of the produce. The Patanjali procurement will also help to increase the incomes of farmers and SHGs, which will have a multiplier effect on the local economy.
A Model of Grassroots Economic Empowerment
Bahraich district’s initiatives in bamboo marketing and multi-layer farming are setting a new benchmark for grassroots economic empowerment in Uttar Pradesh. The district’s efforts to promote women-led SHGs and multi-layer farming are not only empowering rural women and farmers but also reducing poverty and increasing incomes.
The success of Bahraich district’s initiatives can be attributed to the close collaboration between the district administration, government agencies, and private companies. The district administration’s efforts to provide training and technical assistance to farmers and SHGs have been instrumental in the success of these initiatives.
In conclusion, Bahraich district’s bamboo market and multi-layer farming initiatives are a shining example of grassroots economic empowerment in Uttar Pradesh. The district’s efforts to promote women-led SHGs and multi-layer farming have not only increased farmer incomes but also reduced poverty and improved the overall quality of life of rural residents. As the district continues to set new development benchmarks, it is likely to inspire other districts in the state to follow suit.
