With the state government providing fiscal and ancillary support, the tribal farmers in Odisha’s Sundargarh district have begun exploring new economic avenues by growing pulses, oilseeds, other cash crops, fruits and vegetables, along with the cultivation of staple grains.
A three-year programme has been taken up to help these farmers use advanced technical knowhow and increase yield. The programme has been made operational at 9 blocks under Integrated Tribal Development Agency, Sundargarh (ITDA), said officials on Wednesday.
Necessary support to farmers for the same is being extended by ITDA Sundargarh as part of ‘Mission Jeevika’.
“The aim is to support the life and livelihood of tribal people. Under Mission Jeevika, the tribal farmers grow various cash crops. ITDA provides support for cultivating 13 different types of crops. Once harvested, the farmers sell their produce in the local market earning a decent income”, says Project Administrator ITDA Sundargarh, Ramkrishna Gond.
Under Mission Jeevika, farmers in the district are using modern methods of cultivation for 13 varieties of crop. Maize, Millets, Mustard, Arhar (pigeon pea), Groundnut, Brinjal, Cauliflower, Capsicum, Chilli, Watermelon & Mushrooms etc are produced by the farmers. ITDA provides seeds and organic manure to the farmers to cultivate the same.
The crops are cultivated across 9 blocks of Sundargarh in an area of 4,500 Acres. Over six thousand beneficiaries have been enrolled as part of Mission Jeevika. The crops thus grown, using organic methods, have a demand in the local market.
Various steps are being taken by the state government to strengthen the economic status of tribal farmers. Mission Jeevika programme is being run by the government of Odisha to provide various means of livelihood for tribal farmers in Sundargarh district, added the official.