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| Women Empowerment: Role of Krishi Sakhis in Agriculture Development | | |  Prof. Poonam Parihar
“Empowering Women in Agriculture means empowering the entire Nation”.
“Women in Agriculture are driving change, ensuring Food Security for generations to come”.
Krishi Sakhi is a Community Agriculture care Service Provider (CASP) which will enable the last mile coverage in rural areas where farm-based services for agriculture activities are not available on time or expensive to afford for rural poor. Krishi Sakhi is a rural woman community leader or agricultural extension worker in India who plays a significant role in empowering other women and farmers, particularly in rural areas. The term “Krishi Sakhi” can be translated to “Agricultural Friend” or “Agriculture Companion”. The role of a Krishi Sakhi involves a variety of activities, aimed at improving agricultural practices, promoting sustainable farming, and enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities.
The Programme was launched on Aug 30, 2023 by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW) and Ministry of Rural Development jointly. First Implementation: It has been rolled out in 12 States in Phase-1: Gujarat, Tanil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Odisha, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, and Meghalaya. Over 34,000 Krishi Sakhis out of 70,000 have been certified as Para-extension Workers.
Krishi Sakhis are the practicing farmers and trained para extension professional in agriculture at grass root level. Considering the importance of Natural farming, Krishi Sakhis role is envisioned to be as farmers’ friend at their door step with all necessary information, skills and abilities to guide farmers on various aspects of Natural Farming, providing capacity building and skilling in emerging areas of Natural Farming. Natural Farming is a holistic farming system which helps in improving soil regeneration, water and air quality and produce nutrient-rich food. Krishi Sakhis will be mobilized to work in harmony with nature, while also maintaining and improving economic viability.
Krishi Sakhi Convergence Program (KSCP) was launched through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on August 30, 2023, the KSCP is a key component of the broader ‘Lakhpati Didi’ program. This initiative aims to create three crore Lakhpati Didis by training and certifying women as Krishi Sakhis, thereby enhancing their agricultural skills and providing new employment opportunities. This convergence aligns with the objectives of the Lakhpati Didi Program, focusing on the empowerment of rural women and the sustainable development of rural India. This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and the Ministry of Rural Development, aims to improve rural livelihoods and standards of living.
Krishi Sakhi Convergence Program, supported by the Indian government, aims to improve rural livelihoods and environmental sustainability through comprehensive training and community engagement. Under the Krishi Sakhi Convergence Program, grassroots-level practicing farmers and trained para-extension professionals, known as Krishi Sakhis, are playing a crucial role in transforming agricultural practices in rural India. Their role as farmers’ friends at the doorstep encompasses providing essential information, skills and guidance on natural farming and soil health management.
Why Krishi Sakhis?
8 Krishi Sakhis are selected as para-extension workers due to their established status as trusted community resource persons and their extensive farming experience.
8 Their deep connections within farming communities ensure they are well-received and respected, making them effective in their roles.
8 This community trust is crucial for the successful implementation of agricultural extension services.
Selection Criteria of Krishi Sakhis:
8 Krishi Sakhis are selected as para-extension workers in agricultural lands because they are community resource persons and also farmers in their own ways.
8 The target consumer base that these brands have is one that is inherently tied to farming, making them accepted universally.
8 They have already been trained on various extension services for 56 days in basic and advanced modules including Agro ecological practices, Farmer field schools and forums, permits and seed banks Business planning and operating control, Role of Agri inputs and e-commerce in agriculture and allied sectors, Learning about soil, Health importance and Management of integrated farming systems, Basics of livestock management and Bio-security, Vegetable production, agri product marketing management and Rural entrepreneurship.
Training and certificate for Krishi Sakhis:
8 The Krishi Sakhis have been trained in different extension services which were completed for 56 days. At present they are again receiving training on their respective fields with additional stalks on Natural farming and soil health cards through the DAY-NRLM agency.
8 After completing the training, the KRISHI SAKHIS shall undergo a test to ascertain their level of comprehension.
8 Successful applicants shall be trained and accredited as Para-extension Workers to allow them to carry out different tasks under the MoA&FW sponsored programs for a predetermined resource fee.
Types of training being provided to Krishi Sakhis:
The training program for Krishi Sakhis is extensive, lasting 56 days and covering various aspects of agricultural extension services.
Key training modules include:
8 Agro-Ecological Practices: From land preparation to harvest.
8 Organizing Farmer Field Schools: Facilitating practical learning sessions for farmers.
8 Seed Banks: Establishment and management.
8 Soil Health and Conservation: Techniques for maintaining soil health and moisture.
8 Integrated Farming Systems: Combining various farming practices for sustainability.
8 Livestock Management: Basic management practices for livestock.
8 Bio Inputs: Preparation, use, and establishment of bio-input shops.
8 Communication Skills: Essential skills for effective communication with farmers.
Currently, Krishi Sakhis are receiving refresher training with a special emphasis on natural farming and soil health cards, facilitated by DAY-NRLM agencies in collaboration with MANAGE.
Benefits of Krishi Sakhi Convergence Programme:
The KSCP offers several benefits to rural women, including:
8 Economic Empowerment: Krishi Sakhis can earn up to ₹80,000 per year, making them economically independent.
8 Skill Enhancement: The program enhances their skills in various extension services, enabling them to provide better services to farmers.
8 Community Acceptance: Krishi Sakhis are trusted community resource persons, ensuring they are welcomed and respected by the farming community.
8 Job Opportunities: The program creates job opportunities for rural women, enabling them to contribute to their families’ income.
Key ways in which a Krishi Sakhi can both Promote Entrepreneurship:
1. Promoting Organic Farming and Sustainable Practices:
8 Organic Produce: By adopting and promoting organic farming, a Krishi Sakhi can enter the niche market for organic produce. She can sell organic vegetables, fruits, or herbs directly to consumers, health-conscious buyers, or organic food markets.
8 Eco-friendly Products: She can create and market products such as natural pesticides, fertilizers, or compost, which are in demand by farmers looking for sustainable solutions.
2. Creating Value-Added Products:
8 Processing Agricultural Produce: A Krishi Sakhi can promote entrepreneurship by creating value-added products from raw agricultural materials. This could include making pickles, juices, sauces, snacks, or packaging spices. The added value boosts profitability and opens new marketing opportunities.
8 Dairy or Poultry Farming: She can start small-scale dairy or poultry farming and process milk into dairy products like curd, cheese, or ghee. This could be marketed to local communities or sold in local markets.
3. Setting Up a Rural E-Commerce Platform:
8 Digitally Connecting Farmers: A Krishi Sakhi can start an online platform or use social media to help local farmers sell their produce. By learning digital marketing and e-commerce skills, she can create a local online marketplace where farmers can list and sell their goods, offering a wider reach and more customers.
8 Promoting Local Produce: She can also help other farmers promote and sell organic or region-specific products via online platforms, providing a much-needed marketing channel.
The role of Krishi Sakhis in agriculture development is pivotal in advancing women empowerment within rural communities. By providing essential knowledge, resources, and support, they empower women farmers to make informed decisions, enhance productivity, and improve their livelihoods. The presence of Krishi Sakhis fosters an environment of collaboration and capacity building, enabling women to challenge traditional gender roles and engage actively in agricultural practices. As they become leaders in their communities, they not only contribute to sustainable agricultural development but also inspire future generations of women to participate in and benefit from the agricultural sector. Ultimately, investing in the skills and potential of women through initiatives like Krishi Sakhis is essential for achieving broader economic growth, food security, and gender equality. By recognizing and amplifying the contributions of women in agriculture, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all. |
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