Bahraich’s Bamboo Market & Multi-Layer Farming Boost Incomes in UP
Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, has been working towards transforming the lives of its rural populace through innovative initiatives. One such example is the Bahraich district, which has been making headlines with its remarkable efforts to empower women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) and increase farmer incomes through multi-layer farming and value-added products.
Located in the northern part of the state, Bahraich is one of the 17 aspirational districts identified by the government for focused development. And, judging by the progress made so far, it’s clear that the district is on the right track. A recent report by The CSR Journal highlights the district’s success in creating a bamboo-based B-2 market that has empowered women-led SHGs and increased farmer incomes through multi-layer farming.
The Bamboo Market
The bamboo market in Bahraich is a unique initiative that has created a platform for women-led SHGs to sell their bamboo-based products. The market, which is a part of the district’s efforts to promote sustainable livelihoods, has brought together over 100 women-led SHGs from the region. These SHGs have been trained in various bamboo-based craft and processing techniques, enabling them to produce a range of products such as bamboo baskets, mats, and furniture.
The market has not only provided a platform for these women to sell their products but has also helped them to connect with buyers from across the state. The market is managed by a committee of women from the SHGs, who are responsible for ensuring that the products sold are of high quality and meet the required standards.
The impact of the bamboo market has been significant, with the women-led SHGs reporting an increase in their income. According to reports, the SHGs have been able to increase their income by up to 50% since the inception of the market. This has not only helped them to improve their economic stability but has also empowered them to take care of their families and invest in their children’s education and health.
Multi-Layer Farming
Another initiative that has been making waves in Bahraich is multi-layer farming with Napier grass and gourds. This innovative approach to farming has not only increased farmer incomes but has also helped to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Multi-layer farming involves growing two or more crops simultaneously, with the upper layer providing shade and nutrients to the lower layer. In Bahraich, farmers are growing Napier grass and gourds together, with the Napier grass providing shade and nutrients to the gourds. This approach has been found to increase crop yields and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
The farmers who are practicing multi-layer farming are reporting an increase in their income, with some farmers reporting an increase of up to 20%. This has not only helped them to improve their economic stability but has also enabled them to invest in their farms and improve their living standards.
Linking Local FPOs to Big Markets
In another significant development, Bahraich has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Patanjali, a leading FMCG company, for the procurement of turmeric. This MoU is expected to link local Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to big markets, enabling them to sell their produce at a better price.
The MoU is a significant development for the farmers of Bahraich, as it will provide them with a platform to sell their produce at a better price. The FPOs will be responsible for procuring turmeric from the farmers and selling it to Patanjali. This approach is expected to increase the income of the farmers and provide them with better market access.
Conclusion
Bahraich’s bamboo market and multi-layer farming initiatives are a testament to the district’s commitment to empowering its rural populace. The district’s efforts to promote sustainable livelihoods and increase farmer incomes have been remarkable, and it’s clear that the district is on the right track.
The bamboo market has empowered women-led SHGs to sell their bamboo-based products, while the multi-layer farming initiative has increased farmer incomes and reduced the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The link between local FPOs and big markets is expected to provide farmers with better market access and increase their income.
Bahraich’s success story serves as a model for other districts in Uttar Pradesh and across the country, highlighting the importance of empowering rural communities and promoting sustainable livelihoods. As the district continues to work towards its development goals, it’s clear that the future looks bright for the people of Bahraich.
