A Santhal tribal’s journey from struggle to success
In the heart of Mayurbhanj district, in the peaceful embrace of Kusumi tehsil, 69-year-old Biswanath Majhi has embarked on a journey of resilience and empowerment. His story is a testament to the transformative power of awareness and collective action.
With his income rising from Rs 6000 to Rs 25000 annually, he stands as an example of how government schemes like MJJY (Mo Jangal Jami Yojana), which aim to provide forest dwellers with Individual Forest Rights (IFR), can have a significant positive impact.
In the lush green expanse of his ancestral land in Pandigandi village, Majhi, a Santhal tribal, cultivates not only crops but also dreams, sowing the seeds of a brighter tomorrow with every furrow. His ability to sustain his livelihood and nurture his children’s aspirations is evidence of the strong spirit of the Santhal people.
Biswanath Majhi’s success is proof of the resilience of the Santhal people and the power of collective action. (Photo by Mamali Sahoo)
As the winds of change sweep across the calm landscape, the Santhal society stands on the cusp of a new era.
The dawn of transformation
From surviving on a meagre annual income, Majhi’s life is now infused with newfound possibilities. With the arrival of government initiatives and increased awareness, his fortunes soared to record heights.
Majhi conquered the limitations that came with his humble origins. He is now an inspiration for others in his community, helping them realise the transformative potential of knowledge.
The introduction of government schemes such as Mo Jangal Jami Yojana (MJJY) and Mo Pokhari Yojana have helped his fortunes change. MJJY is aimed at bolstering forest rights among tribal communities and forest dwellers across Odisha. In fact, Odisha is the first state in India to recognise both individual and community forest rights. The scheme has endowed entire communities with ownership of land and access to forest resources. Launched in July 2023, it has benefited more than seven lakh people till date.
Empowered with the Individual Forest Rights (IFR) under MJJY, Majhi got the autonomy to manage and utilise the forest resources traditionally used by his community. This allowed him to tap into resources with greater control and confidence, fostering sustainable practices that benefited both his livelihood and the environment.
Majhi’s flourishing land is ripe with tomatoes and several vegetables. (Photo by Mamali Sahoo)
Buoyed by this support, Biswanath ventured into fish farming through Mo Pokhari Yojana that promoted freshwater aquaculture. This initiative not only diversified his income sources but also led to significant seasonal profits, giving him a financial stability he had never known before.
A flourishing future
With his enhanced income, Majhi invested wisely in his family’s future. Recognising the critical importance of education, he prioritised his children’s schooling for a brighter future. Additionally, he made strategic investments for the future, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach.
The land, once a symbol of struggle, now blooms with tomatoes and various vegetables. By setting up a roadside stall, Biswanath maximises his profits and reduces the need for travelling long distances, effectively aligning his business with his agricultural endeavours. This shows how utilising local resources can lead to greater self-sufficiency and success.
An inspiration for empowerment
Majhi’s journey is not merely a personal triumph but a powerful testament to the transformative potential of grassroots initiatives in rural development. His story underscores the profound impact of targeted government programmes and collective community efforts in fostering economic growth and empowerment.
As his success reverberates through his community, it becomes a shining example of how awareness and strategic intervention can catalyse change. His achievements illuminate the path forward, inspiring others to harness their potential and embrace growth opportunities.