As monsoon clouds roll over India’s vast landscape, they bring much-needed relief from summer heat and renewed hope for farmers and rural communities. However, despite the abundance that the rains offer, much of this precious water is lost, flowing away due to poor infrastructure, inadequate storage, and lack of awareness.

Monsoons offer a valuable shared opportunity for communities, governments, and organizations alike. The S M Sehgal Foundation team understands that the monsoon is not just a season; the monsoon season is an opportunity, a chance to conserve, recharge, and secure water for the months to come for water-scarce communities. So, the question arises why is water conservation necessary?

A Paradox of Plenty

India receives nearly 75 percent of its annual rainfall during the monsoon months, yet many rural communities face acute water scarcity year-round. This paradox is most visible and dire in states like Rajasthan and Bihar, where water either floods the fields or vanishes deep underground, out of reach. S M Sehgal Foundation has been working with partners in these regions to reverse this pattern by turning monsoons into opportunities for creating water security.

Success Story: Recharging Hope in Nuh, Haryana

In Nuh, Haryana, one of India’s most water-stressed districts, the foundation team works alongside local villagers to construct check dams and recharge wells. These simple yet powerful structures helped capture monsoon runoff that would otherwise have eroded fertile topsoil and disappeared into drains. More than 100 recharge structures across villages in Nuh have replenished groundwater tables and greatly reduced the drudgery for women who once walked miles to fetch water.

“Earlier, our wells would dry up by October. Now, water lasts till the next monsoon,” says Shabnam, a community member in Nuh.

From Runoff to Resource in Andhra Pradesh

In drought-prone Anantapur, S M Sehgal Foundation introduced rooftop rainwater harvesting systems in government schools. These systems collect and store rainwater for use during dry months, ensuring clean drinking water for students. What began as an infrastructure solution quickly became an educational one: children learned about the importance of water conservation and became ambassadors for change in their communities.

“My students now ask their parents to build rainwater systems at home,” shares a school principal. This ripple effect exemplifies the foundation’s work to promote community-led change.

Smart Technology, Smarter Farming

Monsoons are vital for India’s agriculture, but unpredictable rainfall can make farming a gamble. Through its Adaptive Technology–Agriculture (AT-A) initiative, Sehgal Foundation is piloting IoT-based irrigation solutions that optimize water use in farming and make water conservation in agriculture a reality. In collaboration with agricultural research institutes, these tools are tested on experimental plots and later introduced to farmers, turning monsoon variability into a manageable factor rather than a crisis.

Why Water Conservation Can’t Wait

As climate change amplifies the unpredictability of rainfall, water conservation projects can no longer be reactive, we must be proactive. The monsoon season is a critical window not just to harvest water, but to plant the seeds of behavioral change.

S M Sehgal Foundation combines traditional knowledge with modern water conservation techniques, which illustrates that rural India doesn’t lack the will to change, only the means. Whether constructing check dams, building rainwater harvesting units, or training farmers in water-smart agriculture, the impact is real and measurable.

What Can You Do to Turn This Monsoon Into a Movement?

India’s monsoon season holds immense potential—not just to replenish rivers and fields, but to create lasting water security in regions that face daily scarcity. Here’s how you can contribute meaningfully:

This monsoon season, let’s not watch the rain go down the drain. Let’s capture, conserve, and celebrate water—because every drop counts!

Article originally published on India CSR

Visit www.smsfoundation.org to learn how to be part of this transformation.

About the Author

Rajat Jay Sehgal
Chairperson, S M Sehgal Foundation

Rajat Jay Sehgal is chairperson of Sehgal Foundation and serves on the boards of Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment and Hytech Seed India Pvt. Ltd. With a background in Business Administration and MIS from the University of Iowa, he played a key role in developing S M Sehgal Foundation to what it is at present. He has also been awarded with the Iowa Ag Leadership Award and the University of Iowa’s International Impact Award.

The post Monsoon Matters: Why Water Conservation Must Begin Today appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

How can small-scale farmers thrive despite having limited land and resources?

In India, where more than 86 percent of farmers are classified as small-scale or marginal (NITI Aayog 2023), how to create sustainable livelihoods is more relevant than ever. These farmers form the backbone of India’s agricultural economy, yet they often face persistent challenges—low productivity, depleted soil health, and limited access to reliable markets.

Community-led initiatives and scientifically informed agricultural practices, however, are beginning to change this narrative.

This blog explores how thoughtful interventions—particularly in the areas of soil enrichment, capacity building, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) partnerships—are transforming the lives of smallholder farmers. The story of Sampangiramaiah, a farmer from Medahatti village in Karnataka, offers a powerful example of this transformation.

What challenges do small farmers face in India today?

Small-scale and marginal farmers—who constitute more than 85 percent of India’s agricultural population—typically own less than two hectares of land. Despite their critical role in the nation’s food system, they face structural challenges that severely constrain their productivity and economic security:

How can science-backed sustainable practices help?

To improve yield and ensure long-term productivity, moving toward sustainable agricultural practices is crucial. One such approach is the Package of Practices (PoP):

One of the effective way to improve soil quality by using the Combining these interventions with traditional methods like old water tank tank silt application creates a holistic farming model that enhances productivity and improve soil biological, physical and biological properties.

What is tank silt and how does it improve the soil?

India is home to more than two million traditional water bodies, many of which remain underutilized due to years of silt accumulation. Desilting these tanks restores their water-holding capacity and yields nutrient-rich silt that can be repurposed for agricultural use. The soil that is excavated during the desilting of village ponds or community water tanks offers several agronomic benefits when applied to farmland:

India Water Portal explains how tank silt rejuvenates degraded soil.

A real-world example: How did Sampangiramaiah’s farm transform?

Sampangiramaiah, a farmer from Medahatti village, Karnataka, faced low yields due to poor soil and limited resources. As part of a CSR project supported by First American (FAI) India and implemented by S M Sehgal Foundation, he adopted:

Before vs. After Comparison:

“The package of practices and the use of tank silt have made a real difference,” shares Sampangiramaiah.

Why does farmer training matter in sustainable agriculture?

Farming success depends not just on inputs but also on knowledge and skills:

Workshops, demo farms, and one-on-one guidance are vital for technology adoption.

How do community-led initiatives support small farmers?

Farmer training is the backbone of sustainable agriculture. This is more than supplying better seeds or fertilizers; farmers are empowered with the knowledge to make informed decisions for their land, crops, and communities. For small-scale and marginal farmers, hands-on training often leads to lasting, meaningful change.

What training does:

For Sampangiramaiah in Medahatti village, ongoing technical support through the FAI India and Sehgal Foundation partnership initiative made all the difference. It wasn’t just the tools—it was the consistent guidance, timely advice, and real-time problem-solving that helped him increase his yields in a sustainable way.

What are the long-term gains from blending tradition and innovation?

When traditional wisdom is complemented by scientific knowledge, the results are transformative:

Farmers like Sampangiramaiah are pioneers in this integration, proving that transformation is possible with the right tools.

Can CSR help rural agriculture scale up?

Yes! CSR initiatives are increasingly becoming key drivers in transforming rural agriculture. By providing financial support, technical training, and community mobilization, CSR-backed projects bridge gaps that small farmers alone cannot overcome.

These efforts create sustainable models that can be replicated across regions, as seen in the CSR partnership between First American (FAI) India and S M Sehgal Foundation, which supported farmers like Sampangiramaiah in adopting advanced agricultural practices.

What steps can help replicate this model elsewhere?

Can small farmers become sustainable entrepreneurs?

Yes! And many already are. By integrating sustainable practices, training, and access to resources, small farmers can:

With government and CSR support, this model can empower lakhs of farmers.

A roadmap for transforming lives through agriculture

The story of Sampangiramaiah from Karnataka showcases how simple yet targeted interventions, such as PoP, tank silt use along with continued support, can elevate the lives of smallholder farmers.

Scaling such efforts across India has the potential to make agriculture a viable and sustainable livelihood. The future depends on collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and recognizing farmers as key agents of change.

About the Author

Pawan Kumar
Principal Lead for Agriculture Development

Pawan Kumar is the Principal Lead for Agriculture Development at Sehgal Foundation, with over 27 years of experience in scaling NGO and CSR initiatives. An Oxford-educated development professional, recognized as one of the top agri-food pioneers by the World Food Prize Foundation in 2024, Pawan has a strong track record in organizational growth, fund mobilization, and sustainable development.

The post Agricultural Development: Transforming Small-scale Farmers’ Land and Lives appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Can a woman’s voice and a small backyard truly spark change in rural India?

She speaks her mind. She grows her own food. And she is redefining what it means to lead. Meet Rekha Kumari, a changemaker from the Women’s Leadership School in Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Through kitchen gardening and grassroots leadership training, women like Rekha are transforming not just their households but their entire communities.

The blog explores how simple efforts like leadership schools and kitchen gardens are helping rural women take charge of their future.

What are Women’s Leadership Schools, and why do they matter?

Women’s Leadership Schools are local learning spaces where rural women receive hands-on training in communication, civic awareness, and community leadership. These spaces help women find their voice, make informed decisions, and participate actively in the development of their villages.

Rekha Kumari’s journey, that started as quiet participation, has now grown into powerful local leadership. Today, she is a trusted voice for change.

How does a kitchen garden boost nutrition and self-reliance?

Kitchen gardening may seem simple, but its impact is profound—especially in areas where families struggle with poor diets and rising food prices. In Bihar, for example, NFHS-5 reports that 53 percent of rural women are anaemic and the growth of more than 40 percent of children is stunted. Kitchen gardens offer a sustainable fix.

For Rekha and her neighbors, gardening is about more than food—it is about independence.

What support makes this movement possible?

Real change does not happen in isolation. Behind every woman stepping into leadership, or growing her own food, lies a strong foundation of support. These grassroots transformations are not spontaneous; they are carefully nurtured by a mix of institutions, individuals, and partnerships working together.

Together these support systems create a safety net that empowers women to grow, lead, and sustain change. This web of support means that women like Rekha are not just learning—they are leading with confidence.

How can this model be scaled in other villages?

Scaling a model like Rekha Kumari’s journey is not just possible—it is practical. With the right steps, any village can nurture changemakers and food growers from within.

With the right momentum, what works in one village becomes a movement across districts.

What is the bigger impact of women leading change?

When women lead, everyone wins. Here’s how these efforts go beyond individuals:

According to FAO India, home gardens and women’s education together have been shown to significantly reduce child malnutrition.

Final thoughts: A garden, a voice, a revolution

Rekha Kumari is no exception—she is an example. Her story reminds us that every woman has the potential to lead, given the right tools and support. Leadership Schools and kitchen gardens may look small on paper; but on the ground, they are changing lives—one woman, one family, and one village at a time.

About the Author

Ms. Pooja O. Murada
Principal lead, Outreach for Development, S M Sehgal Foundation

Mass communications master’s; English honors; bridge marketing program (Tuck School of Business); over twenty years in brand management, marketing, and development communications in the corporate and development sector. Spearheaded a community radio in an aspirational district; former chairperson of the gender committee at Sehgal Foundation, invited ICC member, Volvo India, and former governing board member of Community Radio Association.

The post Women Leading Change via Leadership Schools and Kitchen Gardening appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Nuh district, formerly known as Mewat, is situated in Haryana and is recognized as one of the aspirational districts in India. Despite its proximity to the National Capital Region, Nuh has faced significant challenges in education, water security, and infrastructure. According to the 2011 Census, the district had a literacy rate of 56.1 percent, with female literacy at a mere 33.71 percent (source: www.census2011.co.in).

In response to these challenges, various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives have been implemented to rejuvenate ponds and improve school infrastructure to ensure sustainable development and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Why Nuh Struggled: A Glimpse into Ground Realities

Located near India’s National Capital Region, Nuh district holds significant potential for inclusive growth and transformation. Despite facing developmental challenges, this region reflects the aspirations of its people. From education and water access to healthcare and livelihoods, the hurdles in Nuh have not been insurmountable—but opportunities for focused, community-driven progress.

1. Educational Challenges

Nuh’s educational landscape is evolving, though it still faces notable challenges.

Strengthening school infrastructure—ensuring clean water, safe toilets, and adequate classrooms—makes schools more welcoming, especially for girls. With improved student-teacher ratios, digital learning tools, and community involvement, Nuh has the potential to become a model for educational transformation in rural India.

2. Water Insecurity and Depleting Resources

Water insecurity is a pressing issue in Nuh, yet the district’s rich heritage of traditional water management—through ponds and stepwells—offers a blueprint for revival. While much of the groundwater remains saline, community-led water conservation and modern piped networks have helped reclaim safe and equitable water access.

The NITI Aayog has identified the urgency of addressing India’s water crisis, with Nuh at its forefront. Solutions like rainwater harvesting, rejuvenation of traditional sources, and smart water management have helped the region move toward sustainable water security.

3. Healthcare Deficits and Poor Nutritional Indicators

Healthcare access in Nuh remains a work in progress. Limited primary health centers and skilled personnel have contributed to challenges in maternal and child health. Yet, increased investment in mobile health units, telemedicine, and community health workers is already showing promise in bridging the care gap.

4. Poor Livelihood Opportunities

Nuh’s economy, anchored in agriculture and daily wage work, has improved subsequently with the right support. While small landholdings and limited irrigation have historically limited productivity, introducing sustainable agriculture practices and skill-building initiatives have opened up new avenues for income and dignity.

5. Gender Inequality and Social Barriers

Empowering women in Nuh is not just necessary—it is central to the region’s future. While traditional norms have limited women’s participation in public life, many local initiatives are already challenging the status quo.

Improving education access, menstrual hygiene, and self-help groups have helped girls and women reclaim agency over their lives. Tackling issues like early marriage and gender-based violence through legal awareness and community dialogue have further strengthened gender equality in the region.

Also Read: How Is Gender Inequality A Different Fight For Women In Urban And Rural Areas

CSR Initiatives: A Beacon of Hope

Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, several organizations have undertaken CSR projects focusing on pond rejuvenation and school improvement in Nuh.

Pond Rejuvenation: Reviving Traditional Water Sources

In rural India, ponds serve as critical reservoirs for irrigation, domestic use, and livestock. Beyond their utilitarian value, they help recharge groundwater and sustain biodiversity. However, decades of neglect, unregulated waste disposal, and silt accumulation have rendered many ponds nonfunctional. According to a 2023 NITI Aayog report, nearly 40 percent of India’s groundwater blocks are overexploited, and water bodies like ponds must be restored to address this crisis.

Case Study: Uleta Pond Restoration

In Uleta village of Nuh district, a targeted CSR initiative, supported by S M Sehgal Foundation, exemplifies how pond rejuvenation enhances community resilience. The intervention included:

As a result, the rejuvenated pond has become a year-round water source, improving agricultural productivity and restoring the local ecological balance.

School Improvement: Building Foundations for the Future

Education is a key enabler for long-term rural development. However, infrastructural deficits in rural schools—like broken toilets, leaky roofs, and lack of clean drinking water—often lead to absenteeism and school dropouts, especially among girls. As per the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2023, 25 percent of rural government schools still lack usable toilets for girls, and 28 percent lack drinking-water facilities.

Case Study: Manuwas School Transformation

To bridge this gap, S M Sehgal Foundation, under its CSR-led intervention, undertook significant infrastructure upgrades in the Government High School of Manuwas village. Project outcomes include:

These improvements have led to measurable increases in student retention and engagement, showing how infrastructure is foundational to learning outcomes.

Also Read: Transformation Brings New Life to the School

Community Engagement: The Heart of Sustainable Development

True sustainability is achieved when communities are not just beneficiaries but active stakeholders in development. CSR projects that embed local participation in their design are more likely to endure and evolve. A 2023 UNDP India study on rural sustainability notes that “community involvement increases project efficiency by 35 percent and sustainability by over 50 percent.”

Formation of Village Committees

In the case of Nuh’s development efforts, Village Management and Development Committees (VMDCs) have been instrumental. These bodies:

Capacity Building and Training

Beyond infrastructure, behavioral change and knowledge sharing have been priorities. The foundation facilitated:

These initiatives empower residents with the tools to manage and maintain local assets, ensuring that benefits are long-term and not donor-dependent.

Impact Assessment: Measuring Success

The CSR initiatives in Nuh have yielded significant positive outcomes:

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Despite the successes, several challenges persist:

A Model for Rural Development

The CSR efforts in Nuh demonstrate the transformative potential of targeted interventions in water and education sectors. By combining infrastructure development with community engagement, these projects offer a replicable model for rural development across India.

About the Author

Priya Chaudhary
Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development

Priya Chaudhary is an expert in Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development with a focus on gender equity, social inclusion, and evidence-based change. With extensive experience in project management, storytelling, and qualitative research, she has worked on various NGO marketing and development projects.

The post Transforming Nuh’s Villages: CSR Efforts in Pond Rejuvenation and School Improvement appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Can rural communities solve India’s water crisis?

The answer lies in collaboration, awareness, and grassroots action.

India is home to 18% of the world’s population but has only 4% of its water resources. Rural India, which relies heavily on groundwater and monsoon-fed sources, faces acute stress due to erratic rainfall, over-extraction, and climate change. According to the Central Ground Water Board, over 1,114 blocks in India are classified as overexploited or critical in terms of groundwater (source: CGWB 2023 Report).

While infrastructure and policy are crucial, real change often begins at the community level. When villagers come together, backed by knowledge and local leadership, they create sustainable models of water management that improve availability and strengthen social equity.

Understanding the Rural Water Security Challenge

India’s rural areas face multifaceted water issues:

Why Community-Led Approaches Matter

Top-down water programs often struggle due to a lack of local ownership, limited maintenance, and weak monitoring. In contrast, community-led efforts integrating traditional knowledge with technology have shown greater adaptability and sustainability.

Here’s why community involvement is essential:

Examples of Community-Led Success

Across India, several models have emerged that demonstrate the impact of grassroots water management:

1. Pani Panchayats in Maharashtra

Water user associations (WUA) known as “Pani Panchayats” empower farmers to equitably share canal water. These community-led bodies create crop calendars, resolve disputes, and manage infrastructure repairs. Studies show that such associations reduce water wastage by up to 30% and increase irrigation efficiency.

2. Johad Revival in Alwar, Rajasthan

The famous case of Tarun Bharat Sangh and water warrior Rajendra Singh involved reviving thousands of traditional water harvesting structures, percolating ponds called johads. Over 1,200 villages saw wells refilled, rivers revived, and crop cycles extended.

3. Jalagam 2.0 by S M Sehgal Foundation

The Jalagam 2.0 initiative, supported by S M Sehgal Foundation, builds awareness and capacity among stakeholders to ensure long-term water security. Workshops held in Bikaner and Indore brought together government departments, academia, NGOs, and rural leaders to share ideas on community-led water stewardship, women’s role in water governance, and climate-resilient agriculture.

Also Read: Community Water Tank Initiative Provides Access to Water

Key Pillars of Community-Led Water Security

Achieving sustainable rural water security requires more than just physical infrastructure-it demands active participation, shared knowledge, and inclusive decision-making at the grassroots level. The following pillars form the foundation of successful community-led water initiatives that are not only resilient but also equitable and self-sustaining:

1. Water Literacy and Capacity Building

Empowering communities begins with education. Workshops, street plays, and school programs help demystify terms such as aquifer, recharge, and watershed. In areas with high illiteracy, visual storytelling tools like wall paintings and mobile van campaigns have proved effective.

S M Sehgal Foundation’s Jalagam 2.0 initiative prioritises such engagements, helping villagers understand the science of water, so they become stewards of their local resources.

2. Reviving Traditional Water Systems

India’s water heritage includes tanks, baolis (stepwells), check dams, and ponds. These structures, once central to community life, are being restored by citizen groups.

Restoration not only improves supply but also replenishes groundwater, recharges wells, and revives ecosystems.

3. Promoting Efficient Use

Training sessions in Jalagam workshops have introduced such ideas, backed by demonstrations and farmer testimonials.

4. Women as Water Champions

Rural women are the primary water managers in most households. Yet their participation in planning and governance remains limited.

Initiatives that include women’s SHGs, local leaders, and village water committees create more-inclusive solutions. According to a UNICEF report, projects with strong women’s leadership saw 60% better sustainability in water infrastructure.

In the Jalagam 2.0 workshops, dedicated panels discussed the role of women in water governance and community awareness. Women shared their experiences as change agents in rural water conservation.

Also Read: Women Water Champion recognition for Kunti Gupta

5. Convergence of Institutions

True water security needs coordination. When village communities align with gram panchayats, health departments, agricultural extension workers, and NGOs, the results amplify.

The Jalagam platform has proven that institutional convergence, when built on mutual trust and a shared goal, strengthens every link in the water chain-from source to consumption.

Technology as a Catalyst

Digital tools are helping communities plan better:

In Madhya Pradesh, the Jal Vikas app lets panchayats map and monitor water sources. In Bihar, real-time groundwater sensors are being piloted to ensure sustainable extraction.

These tools, when used with training and context, become enablers of transparency and planning.

Policy Support for Community Initiatives

The Jal Jeevan Mission has a clear focus on community ownership. It mandates village-level implementation support agencies (ISAs) to train communities in planning, implementing, and maintaining piped water schemes. As of April 2024, over 12.6 crore rural households have been connected with tap water (Ministry of Jal Shakti).

Moreover, the Atal Bhujal Yojana supports water budgeting and planning at the gram panchayat level in water-stressed states. Its key innovation is performance-based grants for sustainable use.

Yet, implementation gaps remain. Many communities still lack technical know-how, funds, or institutional hand-holding. This is where organisations such as S M Sehgal Foundation fill a critical gap-offering capacity building, scientific tools, and platforms for cross-learning.

The Road Ahead: Scaling Community Water Resilience

Water security is not just about infrastructure; it is about people. When communities understand their catchment, use water judiciously, revive old systems, and demand accountability, transformation begins.

Needs to scale such efforts include:

In a country as diverse and challenging as India, one-size-fits-all solutions don’t work. But empowered communities build tailored, resilient, and lasting water models. The work of platforms like Jalagam 2.0, and hundreds of village efforts across the country, prove that when people lead and collaborate, water security is not a dream-it becomes a legacy.

Every empowered village can write its own water success story.

About the Author

Lalit Mohan Sharma
Principal Scientist, Water Research and Training

Lalit Mohan Sharma is the Principal Scientist, Water Management, at S M Sehgal Foundation, with over 20 years of experience in water and soil conservation. He has developed innovative solutions, such as the JalKalp Biosand Filter and MatiKalp ceramic filter, for providing safe drinking water, and presented a freshwater model at the UN Solution Summit 2015.

The post Build Rural Water Security Through Community-Led Sustainability Efforts appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

What happens when rural women gain access to finance, resources, and community support?

A quiet revolution begins.

According to a 2024 report, women now own 20.5% of India’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with a growing number of entrepreneurs (BW Businessworld). This surge signals a powerful shift in the rural economy with microfinance and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) creating pathways for women to lead sustainable businesses and uplift their communities.

Microfinance supports rural women by providing small loans and financial services to low-income women. Self-Help Groups (SHGs), typically formed by women in rural India, are grassroots collectives that save together and access microcredit to build their economic resilience and drive change.

Together, microfinance through SHGs in India has transformed the rural entrepreneurial landscape. These tools empower women with money, build confidence, skills, and fosters a sense of women-driven rural entrepreneurship.

The Ground Reality: What Are the Barriers Faced by Rural Women of India?

Despite significant improvements in financial inclusion, rural women in India continue to face systemic challenges:

1. Societal Constraints

In many rural parts of India, women are still expected to stay home and follow strict traditions. These cultural rules often prevent them from making their own decisions, especially when it comes to money and work. Even if a woman wants to start a small business, she might not get permission from her family or community. This lack of independence holds back her dreams and potential.

2. Lack of Financial Literacy

Most rural women have limited knowledge about how banks work or how to manage money effectively. They might not know how to open a bank account, save money, or take a small business loan. Because they haven’t been exposed to these things, they often feel nervous or unsure about stepping into financial activities. Without proper support and guidance, they struggle to grow financially.

3. Limited Mobility and Exposure

In traditional rural communities, many women don’t travel alone or go far from their homes. This limits their chances of attending training sessions, meeting new people, or selling their products in nearby markets. Without seeing how businesses work or learning from others, it becomes harder for them to start or grow any kind of income activity. Their world stays small, even if they have big dreams.

4. Resource Scarcity

Even if a woman has a great business idea, she usually doesn’t have the tools or money to make it happen. Basic things like startup capital, raw materials, or even space to work are often out of reach. Many don’t own land or assets, making it difficult to take loans. Without these resources, it becomes nearly impossible for rural women to turn their skills into sustainable income.

These barriers explain why, in Husaini village of Mathura’s Chhata block, none of the twelve active SHGs were running income-generating activities—until recently.

From Inactivity to Enterprise: The Story of Shree Ji SHG

In Husaini, Uttar Pradesh, S M Sehgal Foundation initiated a transformative intervention under a CSR-supported project. The village’s Shree Ji SHG, comprised of ten women, was selected to establish a mustard oil expeller unit—an idea rooted in local resource availability and potential demand.

What are the Key Elements of the Intervention?

What began as a micro-enterprise idea soon evolved into a functioning business run by rural women—breaking barriers and setting an example for other women.

Impact on the Ground: What Tangible Shift was Noticed After the Launch of this Transformational Intervention?

Over the past fourteen months (Dec 2023–Jan 2025), the Shree Ji SHG generated a revenue of ₹11.03 lakh. Each of the ten women involved is now contributing to their household incomes, improving their families’ standard of living, and securing long-term stability.

The initiative has also created a ripple effect:

The Voice from a Beneficiary

Akila, a landless woman and member of the SHG, shares:

“I used to depend on uncertain wage labor. Now I have a consistent income and can pay for my children’s education. We started small, learned from the market, and slowly grew confident in managing production and sales. Today our product reaches beyond the village.”

What is the Role of Microfinance in Enabling Women Entrepreneurs?

The transformation seen in Husaini village through the Shree Ji SHG is not an isolated success—it’s part of a growing movement across rural India, where microfinance and self-help groups are unlocking the hidden potential of women. Microfinance doesn’t just offer credit—it builds confidence, community, and long-term capabilities. Here’s how:

1. Easy Access to Credit

Traditional banks often ask for collateral or formal income proofs—something most rural women lack. Microfinance institutions, on the other hand, offer small, low-interest loans that are accessible even to landless women like Akila from Shree Ji SHG. With the support of the CSR-backed initiative, the group accessed the funds needed to purchase a mustard expeller and set up the business. For women who never imagined owning or running a machine, access to this initial capital was the first step toward entrepreneurship.

2. Collective Responsibility

In the SHG model, every member is jointly responsible for loan repayments and business outcomes. This system builds trust and encourages regular engagement. The ten women of Shree Ji SHG didn’t just receive individual loans—they formed a community of support. They worked together through challenges such as arranging for electricity infrastructure and coordination to keep the unit running. The pressure of collective responsibility pushed everyone to stay committed and accountable.

3. Empowerment through Savings

Regular savings, even as little as ₹10 a week, gradually help women build a safety net. These habits introduce financial discipline and security into their lives. For the women of Husaini, being part of the SHG meant learning how to manage earnings, reinvest profits, and plan expenses. Over time, they moved from uncertain daily wages to a structured business model that offered consistent income, as seen in their ₹11 lakh revenue over fourteen months.

4. Increased Bargaining Power

When women earn their own income, their voices grow stronger. For the members of Shree Ji SHG, success brought them more than money. It gave them dignity and recognition within their households and the larger village community. The support of male counterparts grew as the business expanded, and the women began to make decisions that affected their families’ future—such as investing in their children’s education or improving household facilities.

In Husaini, microfinance didn’t just launch a mustard oil business—it lit a spark of confidence, independence, and transformation. The Shree Ji SHG story proves how targeted support, when combined with training and community backing, can fuel women’s entrepreneurship in even the most traditional rural areas.

How to Drive Entrepreneurship Through Capacity Building?

Financial assistance alone is not enough. Entrepreneurial growth in rural areas needs consistent capacity-building support for women entrepreneurs that includes:

These steps were integrated in the Husaini intervention—ensuring sustainable growth and self-reliance.

Collaborations That Work: Government, NGOs, and Community

The synergy between government institutions, NGOs, and local communities can fast-track rural entrepreneurship. In Husaini, partnerships with ICAR–NRCRM and UPSRLM played a crucial role in legitimising and scaling the venture.

Such collaborations help to:

In the long run, this network of support creates an ecosystem where rural women feel seen, supported, and successful.

Looking Ahead: What Needs to Be Done?

To replicate this success across rural India, consider the following measures:

More Than Income, It’s Empowerment

Microfinance and SHGs are not merely financial tools—they’re instruments of social change. When women like Akila take charge of a business, it transforms not just their income, but their status, confidence, and role in society.

The success story of Shree Ji SHG in Husaini is a shining example of how the right support, combined with community trust and women’s resilience, can spark entrepreneurship in new places. By scaling such interventions, we can unlock the vast untapped potential of rural women entrepreneurs across India.

About the Author

Pawan Kumar
Principal Lead for Agriculture Development

Pawan Kumar is the Principal Lead for Agriculture Development at Sehgal Foundation, with over 27 years of experience in scaling NGO and CSR initiatives. An Oxford-educated development professional, recognized as one of the top agri-food pioneers by the World Food Prize Foundation in 2024, Pawan has a strong track record in organizational growth, fund mobilization, and sustainable development.

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What does it take to break the cycle of malnutrition in India’s underserved regions?

Despite progress, the reality remains stark: according to the NFHS-5 (2021–22) data, 67.9% of children aged 6–59 months, and 57.1% of women aged 15-49 years, in Bihar are anaemic. East Champaran, one of Bihar’s most vulnerable districts, reflects this national concern.

While infrastructure and policy continue to evolve, localized interventions such as nutrition workshops have emerged as powerful tools to educate, mobilize, and empower communities. This blog explores the impact of a recent workshop conducted in East Champaran under the Krishi Jyoti Project, highlighting how grassroots engagement can lead to tangible health improvements.

What was the Malnutrition Challenge in Bihar?

What happens when a child’s first meal is inadequate—and the second, third, and fourth follow the same pattern?

For far too many children and women in Bihar, particularly in districts like East Champaran, this is an everyday reality. Despite efforts at improving healthcare and food security, the state remains one of India’s most nutritionally vulnerable regions. Malnutrition is not just a health issue here—it is an intergenerational crisis impacting growth, development, and productivity.

1. Widespread Stunting and Wasting Among Children

According to the NFHS-5 (2019–21), 42.9% of children under five in Bihar are stunted, meaning their height is significantly low for their age due to chronic undernutrition. Additionally, 22.9% of children suffer from wasting, which indicates acute weight loss from recent illness or inadequate food intake.

In East Champaran, where families often face poverty, poor sanitation, and limited access to quality healthcare, these numbers are not mere statistics—they reflect the lived experiences of children struggling with poor growth, weak immunity, and delayed development.

2. Alarming Rates of Anaemia Among Children and Adolescents

Anaemia remains a serious concern, especially among children and adolescent girls. As per NFHS-5, 69.4% of children aged 6–59 months in Bihar are anaemic, while 63.5% of adolescent girls (15–19 years) show signs of iron deficiency anaemia.

The consequences are dire: poor concentration in school, low physical stamina, delayed puberty, and for girls—higher risks in future pregnancies. In districts such as East Champaran, where diets lack iron-rich foods and healthcare access is limited, anaemia silently hinders a generation’s potential.

3. Undernutrition Among Women During Pregnancy and Lactation

Women’s nutrition plays a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of malnutrition—but here too, Bihar faces serious challenges. More than 58% of women in Bihar aged 15–49 are anaemic, many of them pregnant or lactating.

Inadequate maternal nutrition leads to low birth weight, preterm deliveries, and undernourished infants. In East Champaran, deeply rooted patriarchal norms, coupled with poor health services and limited awareness, make it difficult for expectant mothers to access essential nutrients, antenatal care, and rest—putting both the mother and newborn at risk.

The Krishi Jyoti Nutrition Workshop: A Targeted Intervention

To counter these systemic issues, a nutrition workshop was organised on March 4, 2025, in East Champaran district. Supported by Mosaic India Private Limited and executed under the Krishi Jyoti Project, the workshop aimed to build capacity among frontline workers who are often the first point of contact in rural healthcare.

Participants included:

Key officials from the Health and ICDS departments also took part, including the medical officer in-charge (MOIC) and block medical coordinator.

Workshop Highlights: What Was Covered?

The curriculum focused on improving the understanding of essential nutritional practices and service delivery:

Interactive methods such as group activities, introductory games, and icebreakers ensured that the training was not just informative, but also engaging and memorable.

Real-time Assessment and Feedback

To ensure the training’s effectiveness, pre- and post-assessments were conducted to gauge changes in participants’ knowledge levels. Feedback forms also captured valuable suggestions for improving future sessions.

A block coordinator from the ICDS department noted:

“The workshop deserves all the praise it can get. Great management and a valuable learning platform for health care workers.”

Empowering the Frontline: Why It Matters

Frontline health workers are critical to rural nutrition delivery. However, gaps in training often hinder their effectiveness. A study published by NITI Aayog (2023) highlights that continuous training of ASHAs and AWWs has a direct impact on early identification and treatment of malnutrition in children.

Through workshops like this, the following benefits were observed:

How to Strengthen the Public Health through Convergence

One of the workshop’s key successes was in enabling institutional convergence between the Health Department and the ICDS scheme. This joint approach ensured shared goals and more coordinated action plans.

The inclusion of key government officials helped to:

The Role of Technology: Poshan Tracker in Action

Launched as part of the Poshan Abhiyaan, the Poshan Tracker App is a mobile-based tool for tracking nutrition-related data of beneficiaries. It enables last-mile delivery of services by recording data on:

The block coordinator from ICDS demonstrated live use of the app, helping workers:

Learn more about the app on the Ministry of Women and Child Development site.

Why Nutrition Workshops Should Be Replicated and Scaled

According to a 2024 report by UNICEF India, community-based nutrition education initiatives lead to significant improvements in child growth outcomes and maternal awareness.

Replication of workshops like the one in East Champaran can:

Moreover, such initiatives align with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), driving India’s commitment to sustainable development.

A step forward, but many miles to go

Workshops like the one conducted in East Champaran offer more than just information—they inspire transformation. By equipping frontline workers with practical skills and digital tools, we strengthen the backbone of rural health infrastructure.

While there are no silver bullets for malnutrition, consistent efforts at the grassroots level, supported by data-driven policies and collaborative partnerships, are showing us the way forward. The path is long, but with each workshop, we get closer to a healthier India.

About the Authors

Aparna Singh
Public Health Expert and Nutrition Specialist

Aparna Singh is a Public Health Expert and Nutrition Specialist with over 4 years of experience in maternal and child health and tuberculosis. She is adept in the nutrition and healthcare industry and has contributed significantly to community-based health interventions.

Priya Chaudhary
Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development

Priya Chaudhary is an expert in Social Impact, CSR, and Gender & Development with a focus on gender equity, social inclusion, and evidence-based change. With extensive experience in project management, storytelling, and qualitative research, she has worked on various NGO marketing and development projects.

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Soil health is the foundation of productive and sustainable agriculture. Yet, across India, farmland continues to suffer from degradation, nutrient depletion, and poor management practices. Addressing these challenges through scientifically backed solutions and localized interventions like Krishi Jyoti can significantly improve soil quality and enhance crop productivity in the long run.

What Is Soil Health and Why Does It Matter?

Soil health refers to the soil’s ability to function as a living ecosystem that supports plant growth, animal life, and human needs. Healthy soil balances nutrients, organic matter, moisture, and biological activity. When soil health is neglected, it affects productivity, biodiversity, and food security.

How the Green Revolution Impacted Soil Health

The Green Revolution holds a special place in Indian history. Though internationally recognized as a major step toward the nation’s food security, this transformation also led to the irresponsible exploitation of natural resources such as soil and water. Most of this is due to ignorance, greed, and overuse of some modern technologies that led to the revolution in the first place.

Back in 1970, Walter P. Falcon talked about the “second-generation problems” of the Green Revolution. Indiscriminate use of chemicals and fertilizers has led to a weakened ecology, thereby threatening long-term sustainability. However, the Indian farmer continued the practices in the quest for productivity. The resulting deterioration of soil and the depletion and contamination of water have had a direct impact on farmers’ productivity and profitability, particularly in Northern India.

Quick Fact:

According to the 2023 FAO India Report, nearly 60% of Indian agricultural soils are suffering from degradation, partly due to post-Green Revolution practices.

What Are the Main Causes of Soil Degradation in India?

Year after year, we hear about the rich harvest the season has produced. However, despite the ever-growing output, malnutrition and farmer income still remain contentious issues. The lack of understanding about imbalances in soil nutrients is the major reason for this.

Some of the issues being faced in soil health:

According to the 2023 ICAR report:

What Are the Consequences of Poor Soil Health?

What Are the Best Practices for Soil and Nutrient Management?

As farm yields reduce, and cost of inputs keeps rising, farmers are realizing the importance of improved soil health and nutrient management on their fields. Scientific practices have the ability to improve crop yields, reduce input costs, and have a host of environmental benefits.

Some of these practices include:

Balanced and integrated use of fertilizers and micronutrients: All essential nutrients need to be applied in optimum quantities and in planned methods that are dependent on soil, crop, and climatic conditions. Timing and a judicious mix of nutrients will meet crop demands and will prevent excesses. Over-fertilizing of crops increases pest issues. Excess of nitrogen levels in plants can decrease resistance to pests and result in crop damage.

This, of course, is only made possible with proper soil testing, outreach programs, and policy initiatives. For instance, a reform of the Nutrient-Based Subsidy Scheme could be extended to include urea as well as other nutrients. Use of organic nutrients should also be encouraged, since an important factor in maintaining soil organic matter.

Source

Reduction in inversion tilling: Excess tilling is detrimental to soil health. Tilling tends to decompose organic matter and disturb the soil aggregates, leading to a reduction in soil health, an increase in erosion, and reduced productivity. Tilling would only be required in order to increase organic input via residual crops or manure. Reduction in tillage may appear to be cumbersome and dependent on the individual field’s status; however, the benefits to the farmer are significant in the long run.

Reduction in synthetic pesticides and promoting beneficial organisms: Indiscriminate use of synthetic pesticides and insecticides has adversely affected the environment and agricultural production. Harmful chemicals have found their way into the food chain and the water table. Pesticide residue pollutes soil, groundwater, and surface water, and affects livestock, crops, and humans.

Preserving soil moisture: Water shortages due to shrinkage in groundwater availability are a major issue affecting soil health, especially in monsoon-dependent arid regions of north India. Crops are starved or stressed for water due to low rainfall, high temperatures, and inconsistent or poor irrigation. Methods or systems that promote moisture guard against droughts and have a cyclical effect on soil health and fertility.

Source

Techniques such as strip tillage, no tillage, mulching, cover cropping, contouring, etc., have been shown to increase moisture retention in soil.

The 4Rs of Nutrient Management

The 4Rs of nutrient management are referred to when talking about proper nutrient application and soil health. Soil health is in harmony with nutrient management, and they are mutually interdependent.

Together, these four principles—right source, right rate, right time, and right place—serve as a comprehensive guide to efficient and sustainable farming practices.

How Region-Specific Interventions Make a Difference

Due to India’s diverse soil types and climates, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Region-specific soil testing, customized nutrient solutions, and local farmer training are essential for sustainable agriculture.

Balanced nutrient management must consider soil nutrient availability, crop removal rates, investment returns, moisture conditions, and degradation types like salinity or acidity. A region-specific approach is crucial to maintain ecological balance and increase yields. This can be strengthened through targeted education and policy support.

Soil Health in India: Key Statistics

Real-World Impact: A Case Study from Haryana and Rajasthan

S M Sehgal Foundation, a well-recognized rural development NGO, in partnership with Mosaic India Private Limited, supports farmers in Haryana and Rajasthan under Mosaic Company’s Krishi Jyoti project. Working in the semi-arid regions of Mewat District of Haryana and Alwar District of Rajasthan, the project reached over 40,000 people across 60 villages of these districts, focusing on improving soil health, water management, and nutrient application. Key activities included:

The initiative has been acknowledged, appreciated, and has received multiple awards, including the FICCI Water Award in 2013 and the Bhamashah Award of the Rajasthan government in 2016 and 2017 in different categories. The felicitation is proof of the effort by Mosaic India Pvt. Ltd. and S M Sehgal Foundation to bring about positive change in the lives of small-scale farmers.

Conclusion

Sustainable farming starts from the ground—literally. With scientific nutrient management, region-specific strategies, and awareness-building among farmers, the path to healthier soil is achievable. Programs like Krishi Jyoti prove that localized, knowledge-driven agricultural interventions can enhance productivity, reduce costs, and preserve the environment. In the long run, such approaches can significantly contribute to national goals like doubling farmer incomes and ensuring food security.

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Livestock farming plays a crucial role in rural economies, providing income and sustenance to millions of farmers. However, many small-scale livestock owners rely on traditional feeding methods that lack the essential nutrients required for optimal animal health and productivity. Proper nutrition is vital for enhancing milk yield, improving reproductive efficiency, and strengthening immunity against diseases. Scientific studies have shown that a well-balanced diet can increase milk production by up to 20 percent and improve overall livestock health. (Source: National Dairy Development Board, India )

This article explores how farmers can improve livestock nutrition, backed by scientific insights and a real-life success story from Haryana.

The Challenges of Traditional Livestock Feeding Practices

In many rural areas, livestock is fed using age-old practices that fail to meet modern nutritional standards. Common feeding issues include:

Studies suggest that nearly 70 percent of livestock in India suffer from mineral deficiencies, leading to poor productivity. (Source: ICAR – Indian Veterinary Research Institute )

Scientific Approach to Livestock Nutrition: Key Nutrients for Better Productivity

To improve livestock health and increase productivity, a scientifically formulated diet is essential. A balanced feed should include the following:

The Role of Balanced Animal Nutrition: A Case Study from Haryana

Manju, a farmer from Pada village in Haryana, relied on traditional livestock feeding methods, which resulted in her buffalo’s poor health and low milk yield. In August 2023, she attended a farmers’ training session under the Krishi Samriddhi 3 project, supported by India Publicis Groupe Entities and implemented by S M Sehgal Foundation.

Following the training, Manju adopted a balanced nutrition kit containing mineral mixtures, vitamins, and deworming tablets. She also learned to mix green and dry fodder effectively.

Within a month, her buffalo’s milk production increased from twelve to fifteen liters per day, boosting her daily income by ₹180 (milk price: ₹60 per liter). Over three months, her net gain reached ₹13,900 after deducting the ₹2,300 cost of the nutrition kit.

Manju’s story illustrates how scientific feeding techniques can significantly enhance livestock productivity and financial returns.

Economic Benefits of Improved Livestock Feed for Farmers

Increased Milk Production and Revenue

A well-balanced diet directly impacts milk yield, leading to higher income for dairy farmers. When livestock receive essential nutrients, such as proteins, minerals, and vitamins, their productivity improves.

For example, Manju from Haryana observed a daily increase of three liters of milk after adopting a nutrition-rich feed. With milk priced at ₹60 per liter, this resulted in an additional income of ₹5,400 per month.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: A Profitable Investment

While high-quality livestock feed and supplements require an initial investment, the financial returns outweigh the cost. In Manju’s case, the nutrition kit cost her ₹2,300 and lasted three months, while her additional income during this period amounted to ₹16,200. After deducting the feed cost, her net profit was ₹13,900. Over an eight- to nine-month lactation period, this could mean an annual income boost of ₹37,000–₹42,000 from a single buffalo.

Reduced Veterinary Expenses

Poor nutrition weakens livestock, making them more susceptible to diseases that require frequent medical intervention. Providing balanced nutrition and deworming treatments reduces susceptibility to illnesses, lowering veterinary expenses. Farmers spend less on antibiotics, emergency treatments, and veterinary visits, saving thousands of rupees annually.

Improved Reproductive Health and Longevity

Malnourished livestock often suffer from reproductive issues, leading to increased calving intervals and reduced productivity. Proper nutrition supports better fertility rates, healthier pregnancies, and stronger calves.

This ensures a consistent milk supply and extends the productive lifespan of livestock, reducing the need for frequent replacements and costly purchases.

Strengthening Household Financial Stability

For small-scale farmers, dairy income is a critical source of financial stability. The additional revenue from increased milk production can help cover essential expenses, such as education, healthcare, and debt repayment.

As seen in Manju’s case, her increased earnings allowed her to repay a loan from her self-help group, reducing financial stress and enhancing her family’s overall well-being. Investing in high-quality livestock nutrition, farmers can increase both their daily income and long-term financial security while creating a more sustainable and profitable dairy farming system.

Scaling Up: Encouraging Adoption of Scientific Feeding Methods

To replicate success stories like Manju’s, government and NGO support is crucial for providing subsidized nutrition kits and farmer training. Awareness campaigns can educate farmers on the economic benefits of balanced feeding, encouraging wider adoption of best practices for livestock health and productivity.

Community demonstration plots can showcase real-time improvements, building farmer confidence. Additionally, technology integration—such as mobile apps offering customized nutrition recommendations—can empower farmers with data-driven insights. These efforts will ensure the broader adoption of scientific feeding methods, leading to sustainable income growth and improved livestock management across India.

The Future of Livestock Nutrition: Innovations and Sustainable Practices

Innovative solutions are shaping the future of livestock nutrition:

Adopting these advancements will further enhance productivity and promote sustainable farming practices.

The Path to Healthier Livestock and Profitable Farming

Enhancing livestock nutrition is a proven strategy for improving animal health, increasing productivity, and boosting farmers’ incomes. As seen in Manju’s case, scientific feeding methods can yield significant gains in milk production, leading to higher earnings and financial stability.

Scaling up these practices through government support, awareness campaigns, and technological solutions can empower more farmers to adopt balanced nutrition for their livestock. Enhancing feed quality is essential for the long-term sustainability of agriculture, strengthening India’s dairy sector, and ensuring national food security. Making scientific nutrition more accessible and affordable will shape the future of livestock farming.

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Soil health serves as the foundation of sustainable agriculture, yet millions of hectares worldwide are deteriorating due to increasing soil salinity. When excessive salts accumulate in the soil, they interfere with plant growth, reduce crop yields, and contribute to long-term land degradation. This poses a severe threat to farmers’ livelihoods, particularly in regions where irrigation water contains high levels of dissolved salts and industrial pollutants.

One such example is Kheda Khalilpur, a village in Nuh district, Haryana, where industrial pollutants in irrigation water have significantly impacted soil fertility. However, through soil analysis and the strategic use of gypsum, farmers have reclaimed their farmlands and improved crop yields. This article explores the science behind soil salinity, the role of gypsum in restoring soil health, and how targeted interventions—such as those implemented in Kheda Khalilpur—can offer scalable, sustainable solutions to this pressing agricultural challenge.

Understanding Soil Salinity and Its Causes

Soil salinity is a major environmental challenge affecting agriculture by reducing soil fertility and crop productivity. It occurs when excess salts accumulate in the soil, making it difficult for plants to absorb water and nutrients. This condition leads to stunted growth, lower yields, and, in severe cases, renders land unfit for cultivation.

Several factors contribute to soil salinity:

If left unchecked, salinity can turn once-productive land into barren wastelands, threatening food security and rural livelihoods. Addressing this issue requires scientific soil management practices to restore fertility and ensure sustainable farming.

Case Study: Kheda Khalilpur Village

Kheda Khalilpur, a village in Nuh district, Haryana, faces severe soil salinity due to contamination from a nearby water channel carrying industrial pollutants. With 4,000 acres of farmland dependent on this water source for irrigation, the accumulation of harmful chemicals and salts has reduced soil fertility and crop productivity, posing challenges for local farmers.

To address this issue, S M Sehgal Foundation, with support from TLG India Private Limited, initiated the Gram Uday-7 project in April 2023. The project aimed to promote soil health management through scientific interventions. Farmers were encouraged to test their soil to identify underlying issues. Soil analysis reports revealed high electrical conductivity (EC), indicating severe salinity, which restricted plant growth and reduced yields.

To combat this, experts recommended gypsum application, a proven method for reducing soil salinity and improving soil structure. Farmers obtained 1,000 bags of subsidized gypsum and applied 20–25 sacks per acre, leading to improved germination, healthier crops, and reduced sowing cycles. This resulted in cost savings of ₹1,500–2,000 per acre.

Farmers reported stronger plants, greener fields, and higher yield expectations, demonstrating that scientific soil management can restore agricultural productivity and secure rural livelihoods.

Soil Testing and Analysis: Identifying the Problem

Soil testing is a crucial first step in diagnosing and addressing soil salinity. It helps determine key parameters such as pH (acidity/alkalinity) and electrical conductivity (EC), which indicate salt concentration levels. High EC values suggest excessive salt accumulation, restricting water absorption by plant roots and leading to poor germination, stunted growth, and lower yields.

In Kheda Khalilpur, farmers participated in soil testing under the Gram Uday-7 project. The analysis revealed neutral pH but high EC, confirming salinity issues caused by industrial pollutants and poor irrigation water quality. Understanding these results enabled farmers to take corrective action by applying gypsum (calcium sulfate) to improve soil structure and reduce sodium content.

Regular soil testing empowers farmers with data-driven insights, ensuring they use appropriate treatments, optimize fertilizer use, and adopt sustainable farming practices to restore and maintain soil health.

Gypsum as a Solution to Soil Salinity

Gypsum (calcium sulfate) is one of the most-effective soil conditioners for treating salinity and sodicity. When applied to saline soils, gypsum helps replace sodium ions with calcium ions, improving soil structure and reducing compactness. This enhances water infiltration, prevents crust formation, and boosts root development, making it easier for plants to absorb nutrients. Additionally, gypsum increases soil permeability, allowing excess salts to leach out, thus restoring soil health.

In Kheda Khalilpur, where industrial pollutants increased soil salinity, gypsum application was recommended following soil analysis. The process was simple and cost-effective, making it an accessible solution for farmers dealing with declining productivity due to poor soil conditions.

Implementation and Farmer Adoption

Under the Gram Uday-7 project, farmers were introduced to the benefits of gypsum through demonstrations and hands-on training. They received guidance on applying 20–25 sacks of gypsum per acre to neutralize the excess salts. To facilitate adoption, they were also informed about government subsidies, allowing them to purchase gypsum at ₹105 per bag instead of the market price.

The impact was visible within months—farmers reported improved seed germination, stronger plant growth, and healthier crops. Previously, multiple sowings were required; but with gypsum treatment, a single sowing was sufficient, reducing input costs. This increased confidence among farmers, leading to wider adoption across the village.

Economic Benefits for Farmers

Soil restoration through gypsum application not only improves crop yields but also provides direct financial benefits to farmers. Key advantages include:

One farmer, Mahesh, highlighted the transformative impact of gypsum, noting that it had visibly improved crop health across all treated farmlands. With increasing awareness and proven results, more farmers are now adopting gypsum as a sustainable solution to combat soil salinity and improve their agricultural returns.

Scaling Up: The Need for Awareness and Policy Support

The success of soil-restoration efforts, such as those in Kheda Khalilpur village, highlights the importance of awareness, education, and policy support in tackling soil salinity on a larger scale. Many farmers remain unaware of the benefits of soil testing and gypsum application, leading to continued land degradation and declining yields.

To scale up these initiatives, the following measures are crucial:

Government agencies, research institutions, and private stakeholders must work together to implement large-scale soil health improvement programs, ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability and rural economic growth.

Future Prospects: Innovative Solutions for Soil Restoration

While gypsum remains a proven and cost-effective solution for soil salinity, emerging technologies and innovative approaches offer new possibilities for soil restoration:

Conclusion

The battle against soil salinity is crucial for ensuring sustainable agriculture and food security. The success in Kheda Khalilpur village highlights how scientific soil analysis and gypsum application restore soil health, improve yields, and reduce farming costs. However, scaling up such initiatives requires greater awareness, policy support, and innovative solutions. Promoting soil testing, farmer education, and government-backed subsidies helps more farmers reclaim their lands. Investing in long-term soil restoration strategies will not only enhance agricultural productivity but also strengthen rural livelihoods, ensuring a more sustainable and food-secure future for generations to come.

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