Stories
Empowering Rural Women: Neha's Inspiring Story
In the vllage of Angalgaon, Tal.Jintur District Parbhani , where agriculture is a way of life, a remarkable woman named Neha stands as a shining example of empowerment, resilience, and community support. Neha, a native of this rural community, has not only transformed her own life but has also uplifted her family and the entire village through her dedication and the valuable resources she gained from Niwas Sanstha and the Reliance Foundation.
Neha's journey began with a small family farm of 3 acres, which she tended to diligently every day. Her commitment to farming was infectious, and soon, her entire family joined in, turning the farm into a thriving source of livelihood. But Neha's story took a significant turn when she became part of a local savings group, through which she was introduced to NIWAS and Reliance Foundation.
Neha's involvement with these organizations opened doors she never imagined. She learned about nutrition millets, a valuable resource for improving her family's health and well-being. NIWAS provided her with bajara seeds, and with great enthusiasm, she planted 15R bajara sowing in her field. In just 2.5 months, she was rewarded with a bountiful harvest of 50 kg of bajara.
This incredible success in agriculture not only boosted her family's income but also helped improve their dietary habits, as they incorporated the nutritious millets into their daily meals. Neha is now ensuring that her family enjoys a more balanced and healthier lifestyle, thanks to the knowledge she gained from NIWAS.
Neha's determination didn't stop there. She also ventured into goat rearing, establishing a successful business that not only increased her income but also benefited the entire community. Her story showcases the remarkable transformation that can occur when individuals are provided with the right resources and knowledge.
Neha's gratitude knows no bounds. She is exceptionally thankful to NIWAS and Reliance Foundation for their support, which not only enhanced her goat rearing business but also provided crucial insights into improving the nutrition of her family, something she previously had little knowledge about through the accommodation institution.
Neha's success story is a testament to the power of community, education, and resource support in rural areas. She has become a source of inspiration for others in her village, and her journey underscores the potential that lies within every individual when they are given the right tools and opportunities. Neha's story is a beacon of hope and a shining example of empowerment in rural area.
Transformation in Agricultural Practices through NIWAS Support
Munjaji Rambhau Tiparkar , 32-year-old farmer from Indevadi, Tt. Dist., Parbhani, was primarily engaged in agriculture, with a side venture of rearing goats. He started with just 2 goats but eventually expanded his herd to 14. Initially, he followed traditional farming methods, using traditional tools to harvest soybeans and cultivate cotton for his livelihood. NIWAS Intervention: Munjaji journey took a significant turn when the NIWAS and Reliance Foundation began their engagement with his village, providing information on modern agricultural practices and their adaptability under climate change. Impressed by their efforts, Munjaji connected with these organizations and became an active participant in their initiatives.
Training and Support: In March and April 2023, NIWAS conducted training sessions on pre-kharif sowing and emphasized precautions while sowing seeds. Munjaji followed their advice to test his soil and adopted the use of BBF (Brood Bed Furrow) machinery. This not only saved time and cost but also improved the efficiency of soybean sowing.
Pest Control and Innovation: Munjaji continued to benefit from NIWAS support as he received guidance on pest control and the use of innovative technologies such as pheromone traps and boom spraying. In August 2023, Munjaji witnessed a demonstration of boom spraying by the NIWAS, which significantly reduced physical effort and ensured effective pest control. This approach saved Munjaji money and protected his crops, particularly during a period of scarce rainfall in Parbhani district.
Munjaji transformation from traditional farming methods to modern, climate-resilient practices through the guidance and support of NIWAS and Reliance Foundation is a testament to the positive impact of NIWAS initiatives in rural agriculture. His experiences showcase how collaborative efforts can empower farmers like Munjaji to improve their livelihoods and adapt to changing environmental conditions, ultimately contributing to the sustainability of their communities.