Empowering Small-Scale Farmers: A Success Story from Jhulendihi Village

Tiharu Oram, a young farmer with 1.15 acres of land for cultivation, initially struggled due to a lack of awareness about government schemes and challenges such as irrigation issues and erratic rainfall. However, in 2020, a collaborative effort involving ITDA (Integrated Tribal Development Agency), Sundargarh, FADP (Focused Area Development Project), Mission Jeevika, and SEWAK (NGO), Rangiamunda, brought about a transformative intervention in Jhulendihi village under the Lephripada block of Sundargarh district.

Spanning over 15 acres, this intervention scheme introduced organic fertilizers, grafts, and pesticides like Neem Oil and Neem cake to promote plant growth. Fencing measures were implemented for safety, and irrigation needs were addressed through the provision of Ring Wells, with one well allocated for every 5 acres of land.

Innovative intercropping practices were adopted, with Farm Yard Compost Pits facilitating the cultivation of Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, and Brinjal by beneficiaries, while ITDA and Mission Jeevika oversaw the cultivation of Millets and Potatoes. Collaborations with MGNREGA ensured support for laborers, benefitting 65 job cardholders and boosting earnings for tasks like pillar installation and compost pit construction.

Despite successes, challenges such as crop damage, delayed payments, and wildlife disturbances persisted. However, future plans focus on crop diversification for soil fertility and market linkage. Embracing ‘Zero’ budget farming and reducing chemical fertilizer usage while promoting intercropping with organic pesticides are prioritized for sustainable income upliftment.

The story of Jhulendihi village exemplifies the potential for collaboration and innovation in uplifting small-scale farmers. Through concerted efforts and strategic planning, sustainable agricultural practices can drive economic empowerment and resilience in rural communities.

Season Wise Production details of Tiharu Oram (2021-2022)

Kharif Season

Sl no.	Name Of the Crop	Total Cultivated Area	(Input Value) Total Expenditure	Total Selling	Total Profit	Market Availability
1	Brinjal	1.15 Acres	Land Preparation, Fertilizers, Compost, Organic Pesticides, Labour Cost (Rs. 20000)	Rs. 90000	Rs.70000	Sundargarh Ujalpur
2	cucumbar
3	pumpkin
4	Guanr
5	Long beans
6	Tomato