Badra’s Mango Orchard in MP's Anuppur: How Hope Springs from Barren Land
An initiative launched under MGNREGA has created employment opportunities, protected the environment, and paved the way for a steady income for the village.
Anuppur: In Badra village, located in the Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh, land that once lay barren and unproductive is now flourishing with mango trees—offering a promise of a brighter future for the village.
This transformation began when the Gram Panchayat decided to put vacant government land to productive use under the 'Community Fruit Plantation Scheme' of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
Following approval from the Janpad Panchayat, approximately 5,625 hybrid mango saplings were planted, creating an expansive community orchard. The varieties include popular types such as Dashehri, Amrapali, Langra, and Chausa.
The project has also provided employment to local villagers. Those working under MGNREGA were involved in tasks ranging from digging pits and planting saplings to irrigation and fencing—ensuring that the local community benefited from the initiative right from the start.
According to the village Sarpanch, the orchard has begun bearing fruit this year. As the yield increases, the Gram Panchayat expects to generate an annual income amounting to lakhs of rupees. These earnings can be directed toward local development projects, while the ongoing maintenance of the orchard will continue to provide employment opportunities.
This initiative in Badra village demonstrates how barren, unused land can be transformed into a valuable community asset. Through this initiative aimed at rural employment, environmental conservation, and increasing income, the villagers have not only planted mango trees but have also laid the foundation for self-reliance and prosperity.