With the support of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and the Tribal Development Fund (TDF), the Rajpur WADI project has been making significant strides in Rajpur Block of Balrampur district, Chhattisgarh since March 2015. Implemented by the Rural Education and Development Society (READS), this project aims to improve the living conditions of 1000 tribal families across 13 villages by enhancing farm productivity and increasing livelihood opportunities.
Objectives of the Rajpur WADI Project
The primary objective of the Rajpur WADI project is to uplift the tribal families economically and socially through sustainable agricultural practices. The project focuses on:
Promoting sustainable participatory livelihood programs (Wadi model and beyond Wadi approaches)
Economic upliftment through sustainable agriculture
Social empowerment and improvement in quality of life
Health and women development initiatives
Rahul Singh's Journey: From Laborer to Leader
Before the Project
Rahul Singh, a resident of Patrapara village in Rajpur block, Balrampur district, Chhattisgarh, faced a challenging life before the project's intervention. Despite having a graduation degree, he worked as a laborer in a small shop in Ambikapur, struggling to make ends meet and feeling dissatisfied with his job.
Embracing the WADI Model
Rahul's turning point came when the project team and field staff introduced him to the NABARD Wadi model. Motivated by the prospects, he decided to utilize his 1-acre wasteland by planting 25 mango trees and 30 guava plants. He also adopted advanced agricultural techniques for intercropping watermelon, cucumber, and other vegetables. Installing a drip irrigation system further boosted his farm's productivity.
Achievements and Impact
Financial Growth
Rahul Singh's dedication and hard work yielded substantial results. His total income from the main crop and intercrops reached an impressive Rs 319,300. This financial success enabled him to purchase essential agricultural implements like a tractor, rotavator, and cultivator, as well as an additional 6 acres of agricultural land.
Social and Economic Upliftment
Rahul's success story didn't just end with personal financial gains. He became a role model for other farmers in his village, sharing his knowledge and encouraging them to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. Today, he provides employment to 4-5 people in his Wadi, significantly uplifting his social and economic standards. His journey from job-seeker to job-provider is a testament to the project's positive impact.
The Rajpur WADI project, supported by NABARD and TDF, has transformed the lives of many, including Rahul Singh. His story highlights the potential of sustainable agriculture to bring about economic and social empowerment in rural communities. Rahul's gratitude towards NABARD reflects the project's success in achieving its objectives and creating lasting change.
Rahul Singh's success serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating how innovative agricultural practices and supportive initiatives can lead to remarkable personal and community development.
