Mahila Kisan Diwas is a day of tribute to the unwavering spirit of our nation’s women farmers. Today, on the special occasion of Mahila Kisan Diwas, we honor their extraordinary contributions, acknowledging that women have played the role of unsung heroes in agriculture. Their unyielding dedication, resilience, and steadfast commitment to the land have not only provided for their families but also fueled agricultural progress. Among these women, Vasuki shines as a symbol of inspiration and strength in the heart of Tamil Nadu’s Theni district.
Vasuki’s journey into farming began after her marriage, fueled by the support of her husband. For the past three years, Vasuki has been an integral part of this dynamic partnership with The Coca-Cola Foundation, adding to her decade-long farming voyage. Her involvement in grape farming and Ivy gourd cultivation, as part of the Women Empowerment Horticulture Value Addition Project, supported by The Coca-Cola Foundation and ICAR Krishi Vigyan Kendra CENDECT, has paved her way to extraordinary success.
Through comprehensive training sessions, Vasuki has gained expertise in grape cultivation, pest management, and the best agricultural practices. She has also learned the intricacies of the T-system using mesh for grapes, a technique that has revolutionized her approach to farming. Her skill set extends to maintaining nutrient equilibrium through precise fertilization and harnessing the potential of drip irrigation techniques.
The results of her dedication are evident in her earnings, which now average INR 50,000 over four months. What makes Vasuki’s story even more inspirational is how she allocates her earnings. Half of her income is reinvested in her farming endeavor, primarily directed towards fertilizers and pesticides. The other half is a lifeline for her family, covering expenses, repaying loans, and nurturing dreams of her daughter’s higher education.
Speaking of her daughter, who recently graduated, Vasuki harbours ambitions for her to pursue post-graduation and further academic excellence. It’s a testament to her forward-thinking mindset, driven by the positive changes she’s experienced in her farming journey.
Before her involvement in the project, Vasuki faced limited yields. However, the introduction of training and support has led to an exceptional 40% increase in her yields, boosting her overall income. Today, a newfound sense of independence accompanies her, underscoring the remarkable transformation she has undergone as part of the Women Empowerment Horticulture Value Addition Project.
To amplify the impact of the project, The Coca-Cola Foundation and CENDECT ICAR KVK also created Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for women, thereby propelling them beyond conventional farming practices and diversifying their income streams by producing value-added items from various horticulture crops. This collaborative project, a part of the larger Fruit Circular Economy Initiative has played a pivotal role in Vasuki’s story and the stories of thousands of women farmers in Tamil Nadu.
Within the broader umbrella of the Fruit Circular Economy Initiative, another initiative- Project Unnati has made a significant impact, empowering over 20,000 women farmers across India. This initiative provides 360-degree support to them, starting from skill training to implementing best agricultural practices to enhancing financial literacy. It also subsidizes costs for fertilizers, pesticides, mulch, and essential farming equipment, ensuring that women farmers can thrive.
On this Mahila Kisan Diwas, Vasuki’s story exemplifies the potential and strength of women in agriculture. Her journey from a modest farmer to a thriving, empowered woman is a testament to the impact of education, support, and sustainable practices. It’s a reminder that when women flourish in farming, entire communities prosper. As we celebrate Mahila Kisan Diwas, let’s remember Vasuki’s story and the countless other women like her who are the backbone of India’s agricultural sector. Their efforts deserve recognition and support, and their achievements inspire us to create a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
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