Farmers from the village of Dhabadih, within the Bhatapara development block of Balodabazar-Bhatapara district, have set a new example in the agricultural sector. Leaving behind traditional farming methods and market uncertainties, the farmers here have adopted improved seed production, resulting in a 75 percent increase in their income.
Mr. Rupendra Sahu, Mrs. Uma Sahu, Mr. Rajaram Ekka, and Mrs. Pramila Sahu, farmers from Dhabadih village, traditionally cultivated paddy and vegetables. Due to vagaries of weather and fluctuations in market prices, they often had to settle for limited income. To overcome this uncertainty, the farmers contacted officials from the Horticulture Department, Bhatapara. Under the department’s guidance, the farmers contracted with a leading seed company and collectively began producing quality seeds on 25 acres. The Horticulture Department has provided the farmers with two crop solar dryers, which will help them dry the seeds during the rainy season.
Due to the contract with the company, the prices of the crops are fixed in advance, which eliminates the risk of market fluctuations. Due to modern agricultural techniques and collective farming, the expenditure on labour has reduced considerably. Compared to traditional crops, the net income per acre has increased by up to 75 percent. Earlier, by planting vegetables in 8 hectares and paddy in 2 hectares, the profit per acre was Rs 1 lakh, now by planting vegetables in 9 hectares and producing seeds, there is a saving of Rs 1 lakh 75 thousand per acre.
‘Became an inspiration for other farmers of the area’ – The success of these farmers of Dhabadih is also greatly influencing the surrounding villagers and other farmers and now they too are showing interest in adopting modern seed production and contract based farming instead of traditional farming.