When it came to moving beyond traditional farming in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh, tribal farmers took a step in a new direction. Progressive farmer of the district, Mr. Ramesh Parmar and fellow farmers have made the impossible possible with their courage, hard work and innovation.
From traditional farming to horticulture
For the first time, the experiment of strawberry cultivation started in the tribal dominated area of the district. Traditionally known for sorghum, maize and other common crops, farmers have now turned to horticultural crops in this area. Strawberry plants were planted in the fields of eight farmers in three villages Bhuradabra, Paledi and Bhanwarpipliya of Rama block of the district.
In Jhabua, an experiment was conducted to grow strawberries, a crop typically found in cold areas, under adapted conditions. 5000 plants were brought from Satara district of Maharashtra and 500 to 1000 plants were planted in each farmer's field. The cost of each plant was only Rs 7, but the process of growing it introduced the farmers to advanced and modern techniques of gardening.
Ramesh Parmar of Rotla village planted 1000 strawberry plants in his field using drip and mulching technology. He says, "Earlier I had seen these fruits in the market, but never had the courage to buy them. Now when I grew them in my own field, I tasted it and also understood the importance of its high price."
Ramesh said that in just three months the fruits started yielding. Currently the price of strawberries in the market is Rs 300 per kg. At present, he has shared his first crop with family members and relatives.
Success of the group
Ramesh is not alone. Along with him, other farmers Laxman of Bhanwarpipliya, Diwan of Bhuradabra, and Hariram of Paledi have also grown strawberries on their land. These farmers are planning to sell their produce in local haat-bazaars and along the highway.
The tribal farmers of Jhabua district have proved that with the right guidance, technology and hard work, immense possibilities can be created in any field.
Tribal farmers moving towards economic and social change
Strawberry cultivation is expected to not only increase the income of these farmers, but it will also become an inspiration for others. This initiative will open a new chapter of horticulture farming for Jhabua district. The tribal farmers of Jhabua are moving rapidly towards big changes despite limited resources.
Prakash Kumar Pandey