Woman Farmer demonstrates Woman Power

Chhabeli Devi is a marginal farmer in Gopalichak village, Dharhara, Munger district of Bhar. She had approximately one acre of land for cultivation. With her association with the TARINA Project, she was trained in vegetable cultivation and also attended an exposure visit to the National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation, Patna. She received technical inputs such as quality seeds, fertiliser, protective irrigation and guidance. She initiated vegetable cultivation on 0.25 acre of land under the supervision of BAIF Field Officer. Land preparation was taken up with the involvement of her family followed by sowing of okra, sponge gourd, bitter gourd and bottle gourd. She incorporated intercultural operations and was soon able to harvest her crop. Adequate intake of a variety of vegetables improved the nutrition pattern of the family. She was also able to sell 120 kg of okra, 20 kg of bitter gourd and 25 kg of sponge gourd in the weekly market and earn Rs. 4800. She now plans to extend her vegetable cultivation to one acre and motivate other women for food security and a secure livelihood.