
Farm Activities
Agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for communities in Majuli. 80% of the communities rely on agriculture for their livelihood and agrarian activities are primarily managed by women. Due to the lack of technology, irrigation systems and scientific knowledge, there is a huge gap in farm production in Majuli. The over-dependence on natural resources has led to unprecedented crop losses and thus scarcity of resources for farmers’ families. Also, destruction caused by floods and by wild animals like elephants adds to the dwindling resources.
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To address the issue at hand, we collaborated with the agriculture department to introduce a range of projects to support farmers in increasing their annual income. We conducted multiple capacity-building training focused on irrigation systems, scientific cultivation of rice and cash crops like mustard and dal, organic manuring of fields, scientific animal husbandry among others. We conducted these sessions in over 30 villages across the district and could reach out to over 3500 farmers.
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We also supported the farmers with sprinkler and diesel motor irrigation systems through the PMKSY scheme which provided it at subsidised rates. Through the same we were able to distribute 150 sprinkler systems, most of which was shared by 3 or more farmers and hence impacting the lives of over 400 farmers .
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As Mr. Krishankanta Pegu of Ukhachuk village says, “With the intervention of irrigation systems and scientific cultivation of mustard, I was able to get a yield twice my previous harvest hence doubling my income in one go.” These sentiments were also shared by hundreds of other farmers who realised the importance of systematic cultivation practices and other technological interventions.
WADI
Fruit Orchards in Majuli
In our latest intervention, starting May 2023 with the support of NABARD under the Integrated Tribal Development Fund, Ayang will work with 200 Mising Tribal farmers of Malapindha village of Majuli to develop 1 acre fruit orchards each. Of the 200 farmers, 160 farmers will cultivate the fruit orchards in their farm while 40 landless farmers will be supported through handloom weaving intervention for income generation. In the span of 5 years, 160 acres in Malapindha will be developed into flourishing fruit orchards of litchi, guava and indian gooseberry along with intercropping of ginger, turmeric, king chilli, pineapple, moringa, castor and a range of seasonal vegetables. The families will also be provided other support in terms of irrigation facilities, water and soil conservation methods, regular healthcare camps and skill training for women. One fully equipped handloom weaving production cum training centre will be established with ample supply of raw materials for the landless farmers. Through the project, we aim to increase the annual income of farmers by at least Rs.60000 in the coming years.