A ‘berry’ good farmer leads the way in Jharkhand

Yamuna Kumari Mehta of Kudarkho village is a mother who is pursuing her postgraduation in geography in a college in Bero. But what sets her apart is that she makes time to practise farming too. And she’s not your average farmer.?

Embracing innovative farming methods, she cultivates strawberries, a new crop in her region.?

Moving away from traditional crops not only boosts her earnings but also sets her as a role model for other women in the farming sector.

From traditional farming to new techniques

Mehta has always been involved in agriculture, working alongside her family. Until recently, their farming methods were confined to traditional practices, focusing on crops like paddy, wheat and vegetables.

Then Mehta learnt about cutting-edge farming techniques that Transform Rural India (TRI), a development design practice, had introduced. The methods promised greater yields and income. Impressed by the farming techniques and their potential to transform her livelihood, she adopted these new methods wholeheartedly.

Known for her immense capabilities and diligence, she was chosen for the farmer field school (FFS) programme. This programme provided her with an opportunity to learn and experiment with innovative farming methods.

Sweet success with strawberries?

In October 2022, she received 1,000 strawberry seedlings. With her husband’s support, she planted these seedlings in a specially designed?kheyti –?a protected cultivation structure – in an open field.?

Read the full story at villagesquare.in