- ‘Farmer Devlal Usendi has written a new chapter of success through advanced farming’
In Chhattisgarh, government efforts to strengthen the rural economy and empower farmers with self-reliance are now bearing fruit. A vibrant and inspiring example has emerged from a remote rural area, where the support of cooperative societies (LAMPS) and the hard work of one farmer have combined to create a new saga of success. This success story of farmer Devlal Usendi, a resident of Keralapal village in Narayanpur district, is blazing a new trail for millions of farmers in the state.
‘The path to livelihood was surrounded by challenges’
Agriculture is the mainstay of Devlal Usendi’s life and livelihood, but until recently, his path wasn’t so easy. Practicing traditional farming, he faced a double whammy every season. On the one hand, he couldn’t get quality, improved seeds on time, and on the other, he had to wander around for fertilizers. He was forced to buy agricultural inputs from private shops at exorbitant prices, which constantly increased the cost of farming. Even after spending so much, the crop yield wasn’t as expected due to poor quality seeds and unbalanced fertilizers, which always made the family’s financial situation a matter of concern.
“LAMPS changed his destiny, provided timely support.”
A turning point in Devlal’s life came when he learned that the Regional Primary Credit Cooperative Society (LAMPS) was providing high-quality fertilizers, improved seeds, and other essential agricultural inputs to farmers at highly subsidized rates. Without delay, Devlal contacted the LAMPS committee, completed the necessary paperwork, and obtained the improved seeds and fertilizers he needed. These resources, available on time and at the right price, gave Devlal’s farming a new and scientific direction.
Devlal Usendi said that previously, he had to scramble for fertilizers and seeds, leaving him penniless. Since his association with LAMPS, farming has become easier. Now, he can get good, quality agricultural inputs at the right time and at the right price.
“A confluence of scientific wisdom and modern technology.”
After receiving the resources, Devlal adopted the suggestions of the field officers of the Agriculture Department. He not only sowed seeds, but also selected improved and certified seed varieties. He used fertilizers in the recommended quantities, balanced the crop, regularly monitored the crop, and implemented modern agricultural techniques at the field level. The positive results were soon visible in the form of a flourishing crop in the fields. The crop’s impressive growth and excellent quality made it clear that this year’s production would break all previous records.
“Financial Strength and Family Happiness”
When the crop arrived at the market after harvest, Devlal received excellent prices for his produce due to its superior quality. This resulted in bumper profits and additional income compared to previous years. This increased income not only strengthened his family’s financial situation, but he also invested the money in purchasing new equipment to further modernize farming. Furthermore, he is now able to easily meet the family’s other needs without any debt.
“A role model for rural empowerment,”
Devlal Usendi is not just a successful farmer, but a powerful source of inspiration for farmers throughout his village and the surrounding region. He’s now taking the lead in urging other farmers to take full advantage of government cooperatives and LAMPS, instead of falling prey to private shopkeepers.