S M Sehgal Foundation and Whirlpool of India Limited today held the inauguration and handover ceremony of rooftop rainwater harvesting systems (RWH) as part of the ‘water project’ in Faridabad, Haryana. The RWH systems have been set up across four government schools—Ferozpur Kalan, Karnera, Bhanakpur, and Seekri—between November 2024 and March 2025 wherein a total storage capacity of approx. 475 kilolitres has been created.

A community-level event was held today at Government Senior Secondary School, Bhanakpur, and Government High School, Karnera, bringing together teams from S M Sehgal Foundation and Whirlpool India. The event was attended by senior officials from Whirlpool. The event marked the formal inauguration of the RWH in both schools, accompanied by a tree plantation followed by a conversation on engagement support of the local community through the formation of Village Development Committees (VDCs).

This project significantly boosts school water access through rainwater harvesting and dedicated awareness efforts.

For further information, contact: communications@smsfoundation.org

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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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“Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life.”
~ Nelson Mandela, Nobel Laureate and former president of South Africa.

Poverty is often understood as a lack of income, but its scope extends far beyond financial constraints. It includes hunger, malnutrition, inadequate access to education, social discrimination, exclusion from basic services, and more. Eradicating poverty requires a holistic approach involving ethical, political, societal, educational, and economic changes. Governments, private entities, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) must collaborate to foster sustainable solutions.

Empowering Communities for Sustainable Change

Poverty eradication should focus on empowering communities through inclusive political, economic, and social participation. Policies must be designed with a targeted approach, ensuring the poor and vulnerable sections of society benefit directly. However, equitable distribution of wealth and employment remains a major challenge. Structural obstacles, vested interests, and resistance to change often slow down progress, making poverty eradication a complex issue that demands coordinated efforts at both macro and micro levels.

From MDGs to SDGs: Strengthening Global Commitments

In 2000, the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were introduced as a global initiative aimed at eradicating poverty, hunger, and disease, while also promoting primary education and gender equality. These goals brought nations together to create a structured roadmap for tackling key social challenges.

Key Achievements of MDGs:

While MDGs laid the foundation, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were introduced in 2012 to accelerate progress and address additional concerns like climate change and environmental sustainability. The SDGs aim for a permanent and sustainable end to poverty while integrating long-term development strategies.

Poverty in India: Progress and Setbacks

Current Data on Poverty in India:

Despite these challenges, India has made significant progress in poverty reduction. According to the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (2019), 271 million people were lifted out of poverty between 2006 and 2016, indicating substantial policy-driven success. However, the COVID-19 pandemic reversed many of these gains, leading to increased unemployment, reduced consumption, and economic downturns.

Challenges That Need Immediate Attention:

Each of these factors directly affects the SDG goal of eradicating poverty and requires urgent interventions.

Government Initiatives for Poverty Eradication

The Indian government has launched several programs aimed at reducing poverty and improving the livelihoods of the rural population:

While these schemes provide crucial support, structural inefficiencies, corruption, and lack of awareness often limit their effectiveness. Bridging this gap requires innovative and community-driven approaches.

The Role of Private and Social Sectors in Poverty Alleviation

The scale of poverty in India necessitates active participation from the private sector and social organizations. NGOs, social enterprises, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives play an essential role in complementing government efforts.

Key Contributions of NGOs and Private Enterprises:

Self-help groups (SHGs) and microfinance institutions have also empowered communities by enabling financial independence and reducing dependency on exploitative money lenders.

Future Roadmap for Sustainable Poverty Eradication

1. Enhancing Skill Development and Employment Opportunities

Developing a skilled workforce is essential for sustainable poverty reduction. Vocational training and entrepreneurship programs must be expanded, particularly in rural areas, to create employment opportunities and reduce dependency on agriculture.

2. Strengthening Social Protection Measures

Expanding social safety nets, such as universal healthcare coverage, pension schemes, and unemployment benefits, can provide financial stability to vulnerable populations.

3. Improving Rural Infrastructure

Better roads, irrigation facilities, electricity, and digital connectivity can significantly improve livelihoods and reduce migration pressures from rural to urban areas.

4. Leveraging Technology for Poverty Reduction

5. Sustainable and Inclusive Economic Growth

A more inclusive approach to economic growth is necessary, ensuring that wealth distribution benefits all sections of society rather than a privileged few.

A Collective Responsibility

Eradicating poverty requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving governments, the private sector, social enterprises, and individuals. While India has made commendable progress in poverty reduction, persistent challenges remain. Strengthening policy implementation, improving social infrastructure, and fostering economic inclusivity is key to achieving the SDG goal of “No Poverty.”

By leveraging technological advancements, community participation, and sustainable development models, we can create a future where every individual has access to necessities, quality education, and dignified employment. The journey towards poverty eradication is long, but with collaborative efforts, innovation, and policy reforms, it is an achievable goal.

S M Sehgal Foundation: Making An Impact

Founded by crop scientist, entrepreneur, and Indian American philanthropist, Suri Sehgal, S M Sehgal Foundation is present in over 1,200 Indian villages, impacting more than three million people in ten states. S M Sehgal Foundation works with the belief that a prudent intervention mix covering the most pressing needs is necessary for inclusive growth, one that can provide opportunities to enable people to participate in a sustainable growth process. To achieve this, investing in social capital furthers sustainable social development.

The rural development of S M Sehgal Foundation demonstrates that an effective amalgam of empowered citizenry and accountable institutions of governance can lead to inclusive spaces for equitable development.

Water conservation and management, food security, and community participation and sustainability in rural development in India have led to the adoption of several development practices that make a social impact. The foundation technologies and models, such as biosand filters, high-pressure recharge wells, and salt-resilient crop varieties, have been adopted by the communities. The innovation of creating freshwater pockets in saline aquifers has been recognized by the United Nations as an adaptable and scalable solution. Community participation and engagement of S M Sehgal Foundation form the basis of every innovation or intervention.

The best rural development NGO in India, S M Sehgal Foundation, through its local teams and effective citizen participants, helps to bridge the massive gap between promises of law and their grassroots reality. The foundation works tirelessly, nationally and internationally, to make the law and policies more people-centric because all the formulations, implementations, and corrections should be considerate of the masses. Through this initiative, communities work to secure sustainable development as they participate in strengthening democracy and the rule of law.

When the citizens of the country work toward moving up the ladder of prosperity, goals are automatically achieved.

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The World Health Organization defines healthcare as “a health system that consists of all organizations, people, and actions whose primary intent is to promote, restore, or maintain health. This includes efforts to influence determinants of health as well as more direct health-improving activities. A health system is, therefore, more than the pyramid of publicly owned facilities that deliver personal health services. It includes, for example, a mother caring for a sick child at home; private providers; behavior change programs; vector-control campaigns; health insurance organizations; occupational health and safety legislation.”

Healthcare is delivered in India through frameworks where each healthcare organization operates according to certain standards and with no interconnectivity to other healthcare services. Healthcare is often misconstrued to include primary medical care in the Indian rural context. Primary hospitals and other healthcare providers are only one part of an interrelated system that must work together to improve societal health.

An effective healthcare system includes the use of a “systems thinking” approach where interconnectivity with standardization completes the system. In a vast and populous country such as India, efforts of the state are found wanting due to inadequate human resources, shortage of funds, and an inability to reach the masses. The systems approach adopts a route that includes and promotes “efforts to influence determinants of health as well as more direct health-improving activities” through direct intervention and partners in progress.

Digital healthcare and telemedicine in rural India

Technology has emerged as a game-changer in bridging healthcare gaps in rural India. Telemedicine, mobile health (mHealth), and digital health records have made healthcare more accessible, especially in remote areas where specialist doctors are unavailable. Government initiatives like eSanjeevani have enabled thousands of rural patients to consult doctors virtually, reducing travel time and costs. Additionally, AI-driven diagnostics and mobile-based health monitoring solutions are helping to detect and manage diseases early, improving overall health outcomes.

Some key healthcare initiatives: A systems approach to healthcare

National Rural Health Mission (NRHM). Realizing the need to adopt an integrated systems approach, the government launched the NHRM to address the needs of the large Indian rural population. The long-term goal of the NHRM is to assure a fully functional and decentralized health delivery system. It also aims to provide intersectional coordination among the determinants of health, such as education, nutrition, sanitation, water, social equality, and others.

These goals are set with a broad perspective that goes beyond mere healthcare to a system that includes a host of interventions, such as convergence of health and related programs at the village level and community interventions and others. The key features and benefits of the NHRM could be summarized as follows:

Mental health challenges in rural India

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of rural healthcare. In many villages, mental illness remains a stigma, and access to professional help is minimal. Depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders are common due to financial burdens, lack of social support, and uncertainty about the future. The government has launched initiatives such as the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare. NGOs and grassroots organizations are also playing a crucial role in spreading awareness and offering counseling services, ensuring rural communities receive mental health support.

Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)

The population of children up through age six years as per the 2011 census was 158 million and growing. This human capital of the country needs to be nurtured, especially in rural areas, to make them productive for the times to come. As part of the government’s commitment to capacity building for this vulnerable section of the population, the ICDS Scheme was launched in 1975 with a focus on children (0–6 years), pregnant women, and lactating mothers. The scheme looks to address the challenges of malnutrition, morbidity, and mortality besides providing preschool nonformal education.

As part of the implementation process of ICDS, the government started anganwadis: rural child care centers. A rural anganwadi center extends beyond the beneficiaries of ICDS and provides basic healthcare in a village and is an integral part of the public health care system. Anganwadis are managed by trained workers who are paid a monthly honorarium by the government. These workers are drawn from the local communities and further the government’s goal of increased social participation for enhanced self-care and self-reliance in health.

Several positive benefits of the ICDS program have been noticed. There has been a significant improvement in the mental and social development of all children irrespective of their gender. Studies have also documented improvements in birth weight and infant mortality of Indian children along with improved immunization and nutrition.

The role of community-based health insurance

One way to reduce the financial burden of healthcare on rural households is through community-based health insurance (CBHI). These programs allow communities to pool resources and provide financial coverage for medical expenses, preventing high out-of-pocket costs. Schemes such as Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and Ayushman Bharat have already made significant progress in providing health coverage to millions of families. Expanding such initiatives and ensuring better awareness can safeguard vulnerable populations from falling into poverty due to medical expenses.

Data statistic: Burden of out-of-pocket expenditure

According to the National Health Accounts Report 2021, over 39% of India’s total health expenditure is paid out-of-pocket by individuals. This financial burden is particularly high in rural areas, where people often sell assets or take loans to afford medical care. Addressing this issue through improved public healthcare services and insurance schemes is critical to breaking the poverty-healthcare cycle.

Poverty and Healthcare: Cause and Effect

India’s rural health system is characterized by the absence of an efficient public health system. Public health facilities, provided by the central and state governments, deliver low-cost care, and are generally overcrowded. Poor households incur high health spending and bear a higher burden of diseases in the absence of resources and proper guidance. This results in rising spending on health and leads to high out-of-pocket expenditure, and catastrophic health spending, thereby increasing poverty. Being unable to access and afford healthcare as it exists, the effects lead to a vicious circle of poverty. The vision of the government is to adopt a systems approach where healthcare initiatives derive synergy from prevention and cure. This would include comprehensive integrated health services that integrate primary care as well as public health; policies and actions to address the link between health, external conditions, education, etc. This can be achieved by engaging and empowering communities through social participation that leads to enhanced self-care and self-reliance in health. For universal health coverage to be achieved, a shift is needed from health systems designed around diseases and institutions to health systems designed for the people, with people, and by the people. Thus, primary healthcare interventions designed with a systemic approach can result in better outcomes for rural communities and relieve them from the vicious cycle of poverty.

S M Sehgal Foundation: Promoting Local Participation and Sustainability

S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation), a rural development NGO in India, has been working to improve the health outcomes of rural communities of the country. One of its five main program areas focuses on Local Participation and Sustainability through which it creates awareness among the communities about important issues.

Sensitization and Awareness-Building for WASH Behavior Change

S M Sehgal Foundation, in partnership with CAWST (Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology) Canada, is working with the most-vulnerable rural population on WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) through a pilot project named “WASH for Healthy Homes” in the Vaishali district of Bihar. The project focuses on five hamlets of the poorest of the poor (daily wage laborers).

A situation analysis study among the most vulnerable 317 poorest families in Vaishali, Bihar, revealed that many do wash their hands with water or with water and soil, but not regularly. It was also observed that they often suffer from waterborne diseases such as diarrhea and typhoid. Sensitization and awareness-building sessions are thus aimed at improving WASH behavior. In every session, people are informed that most diseases occur due to not washing hands before cooking meals, before eating meals, and after the use of a toilet.

Lack of resources and knowledge are the major barriers to the poor state of handwashing practices. With the awareness-building sessions, the community understood the need for hand hygiene, and they started adopting those practices in their daily lives, however, they did not have enough money to build a proper handwashing station. Understanding this situation, the project team started promoting tippy-taps, the zero-cost solution for a handwashing station. These simple, low-cost and locally made systems for washing hands with running water with no hand touch motivate people to practice handwashing appropriately.

Positive changes are observed in the community through sensitization, awareness building, and recall. As people correct, be consistent and adopt continuous WASH behavior in their lives, better health outcomes will be achieved.

e-Poshan Kendra: Promoting A Healthy Lifestyle

S M Sehgal Foundation implemented a CSR-supported project initiative in Nuh, Haryana, in June 2021. The project included the setup of a Village Development Committee (VDC) in the project village to oversee the initiatives and sustain them for the future.

The panchayat choupal (community building) was in a dilapidated state and used as a garbage disposal site. The area was prone to the spreading of diseases like dengue, malaria, and others due to growing filth, and acted as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. In October 2021, the project team initiated the endeavor to transform this choupal into E-Poshan Kendra (E-nutrition center).

The project team mobilized the people by conducting a series of training, and door-to-door awareness sessions; the VDC and women’s group members also influenced the people. In January 2022, the choupal was transformed into E-Poshan Kendra. Solar panels were installed in the E-Poshan Kendra for a sustainable source of energy. Community women became keenly interested in the E-Poshan Kendra and started regularly attending the training sessions held there on nutrition and a balanced diet.

The project transformed the otherwise abandoned panchayat choupal into a wonderful meeting place in the village. Gradually the E-Poshan Kendra became a hub of information provision on good nutrition practices, sanitation, as well as on key government services. E-Poshan Kendra provides structured training to village women, and showcases thematic films and inspirational stories on sanitation and nutrition, and vaccination drives for village children were organized.

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The path to the country’s prosperity passes through the fields and barns of the villages.
~ Chaudhary Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister of India.

Agriculture remains the backbone of India, sustaining nearly 60 percent of the population. Yet Indian farmers continue to grapple with challenges such as unpredictable rainfall, groundwater depletion, and high electricity costs. According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), irrigation accounts for approximately 70 percent of India’s freshwater usage. Rising fuel prices and electricity shortages have only added to the struggle, making access to reliable water sources increasingly difficult. In recent years, solar water pumps have emerged as a sustainable and cost-effective solution, revolutionizing traditional farming practices and strengthening the resilience of the agricultural sector.

The necessity to enhance agriculture in India

India’s agricultural sector relies heavily on monsoon rains, leaving it vulnerable to climate change and unpredictable weather patterns. Nearly 86% of the country’s farmers are small and marginal, often struggling to access affordable irrigation solutions. Traditional diesel pumps are costly, unreliable, and harmful to the environment. Meanwhile, electric pumps depend on an inconsistent power supply, leading to excessive water consumption for irrigation. Advancing agriculture through modern, sustainable methods is essential to ensuring food security, improving farmer livelihoods, and driving economic growth in rural India.

The rise of solar water pumps in Indian agriculture

In response to growing concerns about energy consumption and climate change, solar water pumps have become increasingly popular. These pumps operate using photovoltaic panels that convert solar energy into electricity to power irrigation systems. Unlike conventional pumps, solar water pumps offer a reliable and environmentally friendly alternative, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and grid electricity.

Benefits of using solar water pumps for sustainable farming

The integration of solar water pumps in agriculture offers numerous advantages, particularly in terms of sustainability. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Lower Carbon Footprint

   Traditional irrigation pumps run on diesel or electricity, both of which contribute to carbon emissions and environmental pollution. In contrast, solar-powered pumps rely on renewable energy, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting eco-friendly farming.

2. Cost-Effectiveness and Financial Savings

   Farmers using diesel or electricity-powered pumps often face high operational costs due to fluctuating fuel prices and power tariffs. Solar water pumps eliminate these expenses, offering long-term financial relief and improving profitability.

3. Expanded Access to Irrigation

   In many remote areas of India, an unreliable electricity supply limits farmers’ ability to irrigate their fields. Because solar water pumps operate independently of the power grid, they enable year-round irrigation, improving crop yields and overall agricultural productivity.

4. Water Conservation and Efficiency

   When integrated with drip or sprinkler irrigation systems, solar pumps help optimize water use and minimize wastage. This is especially crucial in regions struggling with water scarcity and declining groundwater levels.

5. Minimal Maintenance and Long Lifespan

   Unlike diesel pumps, which require frequent repairs and maintenance, solar water pumps have fewer mechanical components and a longer operational life. This ensures more reliable irrigation with minimal upkeep.

6. Resilience to Climate Change

   Erratic monsoons and unpredictable weather patterns make it difficult for farmers to rely solely on rain-fed irrigation. Solar-powered pumps provide a stable, sustainable water supply, ensuring consistent access to irrigation regardless of seasonal variations.

Challenges in adopting solar water pumps and the role of S M Sehgal Foundation

Despite their many advantages, solar water pumps remain underutilized by farmers, largely due to a lack of awareness, high upfront costs, and unfamiliarity with new technology. Rural farmers often need guidance on installation, maintenance, and how to maximize the benefits of solar-powered irrigation.

This is where leading rural development NGOs like S M Sehgal Foundation play a vital role. The foundation collaborates with corporations to support farming communities and introduce sustainable agricultural practices, including solar water pumps. Through capacity-building programs, awareness campaigns, and hands-on training, the foundation helps farmers recognize the long-term benefits of this technology. It also facilitates access to government subsidies and financial assistance, ensuring a smoother and more affordable transition to solar-powered irrigation.

Conclusion

The adoption of solar water pumps in Indian agriculture marks a significant step towards sustainable and self-reliant farming. By reducing dependence on fossil fuels, minimizing operational costs, and ensuring efficient water management, these pumps offer a promising solution to the challenges faced by farmers. However, the journey towards widespread adoption requires strong support from government policies, financial institutions, and rural development organizations. With the intervention of NGOs like S M Sehgal Foundation, farmers can be empowered to embrace this transformative technology, leading to enhanced agricultural productivity, economic stability, and environmental sustainability.

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Every drop of water saved today will shape the future of generations to come.
~ Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Water scarcity is a harsh reality for millions of Indians. Nearly 65 percent of the country’s population depends on agriculture, and groundwater serves as the lifeblood of the rural economy. However, over-extraction and erratic monsoons have led to alarming depletion. According to the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), India has already used nearly 80 percent of its groundwater, and more than 256 districts face critical shortages.

Today, borewells run dry, fields wither, and farmers struggle to sustain their livelihoods. Industrial expansion and urbanization have further exacerbated the crisis, while unsustainable farming practices and climate change add to the pressure. If urgent action is not taken, India could face a severe water crisis by 2030—one that threatens not only food security but also economic stability.

But there is hope. Check dams and groundwater recharge systems offer a powerful, natural solution. These cost-effective methods help replenish aquifers, revive ecosystems, and secure agriculture for future generations. The time to act is now.

What are check dams and groundwater recharge?

Check dams are among the most-common, water-conservation structures. Built across seasonal streams and natural drainage channels, they slow the flow of water and capture runoff. This process allows more water to percolate into the ground, replenishing underground aquifers. Without these structures, rainwater quickly flows downstream and is lost.

Accumulated run-off increases groundwater recharge and surface water to enhance percolation into underground aquifers. Methods include check dams, percolation tanks, recharge wells, and contour bunding. These structures trap rainwater and slow its movement, ensuring groundwater levels improve over time.

How are check dams a natural solution to groundwater depletion?

Check dams directly address groundwater depletion. Their benefits include:

Increased water retention and recharge

Check dams slow water flow, allowing it to seep into the soil. This significantly boosts water availability in nearby wells and borewells. Farmers and communities benefit from improved irrigation and drinking water supplies.

Prevention of soil erosion and land degradation

Heavy rainfall runoff often washes away fertile topsoil. Check dams reduce water velocity, allowing sediment to settle. This also prevents erosion and preserves soil fertility. Farmers benefit from sustained land productivity.

Restoration of dried-up wells and ponds

In many regions, check dams have revived dry borewells and ponds. Villages once struggling with water scarcity now enjoy steady groundwater availability. Agriculture and household water needs are met more reliably.

Enhancing agricultural productivity

With reliable water access, farmers can adopt multi-cropping and grow water-intensive crops in moderation. They become less dependent on unpredictable monsoons. This leads to higher yields, better incomes, change in land use and improved livelihoods.

Reviving local ecosystems

Water conservation benefits the environment. Check dams rejuvenate flora, fauna, and biodiversity. Drought-prone areas see greenery return and microclimates improve. At the same time water logging here and there causing vector breeding is also reduced.

Farmers X leading NGOs

Large-scale water conservation requires government support, but farmers play a crucial role in the process. Small check dams, rainwater harvesting, and water-retaining vegetation are effective tools for reversing water depletion. Across Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, numerous examples demonstrate how farmers have successfully transformed water security in their communities. By constructing check dams and implementing watershed management techniques, they have revitalized drylands, turning them into productive fields. These efforts have not only improved agricultural yields but have also brought renewed hope to rural communities.

Farmers’ efforts make a difference, but NGOs can scale solutions for long-term impact. S M Sehgal Foundation leads water conservation projects and empowers rural communities through scientific planning, technical expertise, and resource mobilization.

Khohar checkdam, Rajasthan

Khohar village in Rajasthan’s Alwar district faces severe water scarcity. The village has 150 households and 890 people. Since 2016, groundwater has rapidly declined, with borewell depths reaching 1000–1200 feet. Uncontrolled rainwater runoff was damaging farmland and did not recharge groundwater. S M Sehgal Foundation, with support from the Mosaic Company Foundation, built a check dam to solve this issue.

Khohar lies at the foothills of the Aravallis and has great potential for rainwater harvesting. But without proper storage structures, most rainwater was wasted. In consultation with villagers, the foundation team started work in July 2014. The check dam is 185 meters long and 3 meters high, holding 320 million liters of water annually. Now water seeps into the ground within 48 hours, to address groundwater depletion. In addition, nallah bunds, loose stone structures, and recharge wells also help in water and soil conservation.

According to an internal study, the check dam has transformed farming. Wheat cultivation increased from 11 Ha in 2004 to 73 Ha in 2018. Fallow land in Rabi season decreased from 74 Ha to 42 Ha by 2014. Farmers switched from jowar to cotton in kharif and from mustard to wheat in rabi. However, growing water-intensive crops needs careful water management.

This check dam project has improved groundwater, boosted farming, and increased food security. It stands as a successful model for sustainable water management in India. With more such projects, villages across India can overcome water shortages and ensure a better future.

A sustainable future begins now

Water conservation is an urgent responsibility, and India must embrace sustainable solutions such as check dams and groundwater recharge to meet the growing water demands. Meaningful change begins with collective action. Farmers take the first step by adopting water-saving practices, while NGOs provide technical expertise and guidance. Policymakers play a crucial role in supporting large-scale implementation.

Check dams have already proven effective in several states, improving water availability and benefiting local communities. Now is the time to scale up these efforts and expand their impact across the country.

As Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam said, “Let us act now, conserve water, and build a water-secure India.”

The post Are Check Dams A Natural Solution to Groundwater Depletion? appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

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“Education is the key to unlocking the golden door of freedom and empowerment for rural India.”
~ Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

As education is increasingly driven by technology, digital libraries have emerged as a transformative tool, especially in rural areas. According to a recent report by UNESCO, over 244 million children worldwide remain out of school due to rural regions that face the brunt of the digital divide. In a country such as India, where 65 percent of the population resides in rural areas, lack of quality education significantly hampers overall progress of the country. Digital libraries play an enormous role in bridging this education gap by bringing advanced learning tools to the doorstep of rural communities, nurturing young minds with skills that empower them for a brighter tomorrow.

Along with access to knowledge, digital libraries ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and cultivate life skills among students in remote villages, for whom, this lifeline to a world of opportunity ensures that no dream is too far-fetched.

What is a digital library?

A digital library is a repository of digital learning resources accessible through digital devices like computers, tablets, and smartphones. Unlike traditional libraries, digital libraries promote e-learning by providing e-books, interactive videos on diverse subjects, general knowledge, quizzes, and simulations that make learning effective and fun.

Key features of digital libraries include:

For rural children, digital libraries are an opportunity to explore, learn, and grow beyond the constraints of their environment.

Importance of digital libraries, especially in rural areas

The role of digital libraries in rural education extends far beyond academic learning. Digital libraries address critical challenges faced by rural schools, such as the lack of trained teachers, limited access to textbooks, and outdated curricula. By introducing technology into the learning process, digital libraries:

What are some of the critical skills students develop with the help of digital libraries?

A few skills that students acquire through digital libraries are:

How a digital library helped Shalu turn her curiosity into achievement!

Shalu, a student of class 11, Government Senior Secondary School, Indergarh, Rajasthan, manages household responsibilities and three siblings with her mother in their farming family. Shalu’s educational and career aspirations seemed limited until her school introduced a digital library by partnering with a leading rural development NGO in India, S M Sehgal Foundation.

The digital library, located within the school, provided training in digital and life skills, covering essential topics such as computer usage, mobile applications, and the benefits and risks of using digital tools. Shalu, known for her curious nature, was particularly drawn to mobile applications and their development.

Her determination bore fruit in December 2024 when she participated in the Rajasthan Yuva Mahotsav, a prestigious government-organised event. Leveraging the knowledge gained from the digital library, Shalu crafted an impressive presentation on mobile applications, highlighting their advantages and limitations. Competing at the block level, her presentation earned her first place and a shield, qualifying her for the district-level competition.

Encouraged by her success, Shalu set her sights on refining her model further, aiming for victories in state and national contests. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of digital libraries, showing how they can unlock potential and inspire achievement in young minds.

How can NGOs encourage education, skills, and training in rural India?

With decades of experience in sustainable development, NGOs such as S M Sehgal Foundation play a critical role in bringing digital libraries to rural areas. Besides introducing innovative educational tools, the foundation has ensured the tools’ effective implementation through community engagement.

The impact of these initiatives is far-reaching, resulting in…

S M Sehgal Foundation has reached more than 5.27 million people across thirteen states so far, proving that when technology meets vision, transformation is inevitable!

Conclusion

Shalu’s journey from a curious learner to an award-winning presenter is a testament to the power of digital libraries in reshaping rural education. These libraries equip children with academic knowledge and foster critical skills that prepare them for a better life. With the continued efforts of organisations such as S M Sehgal Foundation, the dream of an educated, empowered rural India can become a reality.

The question remains: How can we collectively ensure that more children like Shalu have access to these life-changing opportunities?

The post The role of digital libraries in empowering rural children with essential skills! appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Introduction

“Water is life, but access to clean and safe water is a fundamental human right.”
– former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan

Even though the people possess the fundamental right to water in Article 47 of the Constitution of India, millions in India, especially in rural areas, lack access to safe and consumable water. Down to Earth reports that over 163 million people in India consume contaminated water, which leads to waterborne diseases such as cholera and diarrhea. This exacerbates the already critical issue of clean water scarcity across the country.

Water pollution is very common in rural India. In addition, very few good water purification systems or infrastructures are in place to provide safe drinking water. This leaves millions of people vulnerable to health risks while depending on unsafe water sources for their daily needs. This can result in serious health issues.

According to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the desired drinking water standard for total dissolved solids (TDS) is 500 mg/l. If no other water source is available, water with a TDS level up to 2,000 mg/l can still be used. But in many areas of rural India, this content is much higher, making the water unsafe and harmful.

This blog addresses why safe drinking water is so important and describes the challenges that rural India faces.

Importance of Safe Drinking Water in Rural India

“We are witnessing the role of safe drinking water in saving lives, empowering women and girls, and contributing to ease of living.”
—Dr V K Paul, NITI Aayog

More than 700 million people reside across about 1.42 million villages in fifteen different ecological zones in rural India. Though lots of efforts are made to make clean water more easily accessible, many rural areas still struggle with issues related to contaminated water. This causes health problems as well as a heavy financial burden to families.

Health concern

Waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid are prevalent in rural communities that lack clean water and sanitation, resulting in reduced overall well-being of the population.

Economic burden

Poor water quality can create an enormous economic burden by causing frequent medical expenses, reduced work efficiency due to illness, and forcing communities to invest in alternative water sources or purification systems. Research by Russ, et al., (2022) highlights the significant economic impact of water pollution, showing that heavily polluted rivers can reduce downstream economic growth by 1.4-2.5 percent, depending on the development level of the region and the severity of the pollution.

Empowering Women and Children

Safe and reliable water changes the lives in rural areas, especially for women and girls who usually have to walk long distances to fetch water. This takes time and energy, and often keeps girls out of school. The 2019 Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) initiative of the Government of India, aimed to install a working tap-water connection in every rural household. A big part of JJM is having women involved in managing water. The mission requires that at least one-third of the Village Water and Sanitation Committee (VWSC) members be women. This way, they can help make decisions about their water supply.

Community-Led Solutions: The Jal Minar Story

A heartwarming story from Chhata, Mathura in Uttar Pradesh:

S M Sehgal Foundation launched the HDFC Bank Parivartan project to help fifteen villages in this area. The main goal is to solve the problem of unsafe drinking water.

This project is to empower local folks, especially women, to manage their own water systems by using smart solutions and involving the entire community. Because of this initiative, people in the community now have better access to clean water, which has led to healthier lives and even new job opportunities for the community.

Overall, this effort illustrates the power of a community that comes together to make a change.

Women-led Water Users Group (WUG) initiative

The Women-led Water Users Group (WUG) in Chhata, Mathura, is an example of how coming together makes things better. Recognizing that safe drinking water was hard to find, twenty-two community members, mostly women, joined together and started WUG to help improve water access and quality in their village. The women took the lead in addressing the water crisis, identifying contamination and high TDS levels as major concerns. Working together, they initiated the development of the Jal Minar, a community water tower that would provide clean water to all.

This group led by women made it easier for people to get water and also helped the community grow and do better overall. When women take charge, everyone benefits.

Solar-powered reverse osmosis (RO) system as a sustainable solution

The initial filter installed at the Jal Minar in Chhata, Mathura, was highly important in providing clean drinking water. However, this filter turned out to be ineffective in filtering out the high total dissolved solid (TDS) levels present in the water, which was much more than the recommended limit of 500 mg/L.

The Women-led Water Users Group (WUG) didn’t give up on making needed improvements. They took action in November 2023 to set up a solar-powered RO system at the Jal Minar with help from the project team. Now they have clean water available all the time, which further empowered the women in the group.

Enhanced financial conditions of the community

WUG initiatives not only improved the water crisis in the community but also helped them financially as well. At a cost of Rs 5 for 20 liters, Rs 3 for 10 liters, and Rs 2 for 5 liters, water is affordable for everyone, while also becoming a source of income for women in the community. These women make about Rs 4,000–5,000 a month from this project. They cover all their costs and save some for repairs and maintenance. The success of the micro-enterprise model has helped with water shortages and given these women financial independence, which is good for the whole community.

Conclusion

The story of Chhata in Mathura is inspiring. The HDFC Bank Parivartan project shows what local people can do when they team up. By focusing on helping women, they are dealing with tough issues like water shortages and health problems. Unsafe water can be really dangerous. We need to act fast across all of rural India to address this crisis with similar smart ideas and community support to get safe water to everyone!

The post Safe Drinking Water Ensures Safe and Reliable Water for Communities appeared first on S M Sehgal Foundation.

Introduction

Wheat farming is a cornerstone of India’s agricultural landscape, vital for the economy and the livelihoods of millions of farmers. However, traditional farming methods, particularly the intensive tilling process, have begun to show their limitations. As agricultural practices evolve, innovative methods are quietly transforming wheat farming, offering new opportunities for sustainability and growth. In the Mau Aima block of Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh, farmers are embracing these changes, learning about wheat sowing with zero tillage. This shift is part of the Bolstering Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) project, supported by the Walmart Foundation and implemented by the S M Sehgal Foundation in Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka. The project aims to introduce modern farming techniques to FPOs, helping small and marginal farmers increase their profits and build resilience to climate change.

Understanding Zero Tillage in Wheat Farming?

Zero tillage is a sustainable farming technique that eliminates the need for traditional wheat cultivation practices, which often involve multiple tilling operations for land preparation. Traditionally, the land is ploughed using a rotavator to loosen the soil structure, followed by manual broadcasting of wheat seeds. An additional round of ploughing ensures proper seed-to-soil contact necessary for germination. However, this intensive tilling method negatively impacts soil health, reduces moisture retention, increases cultivation costs, and leads to lower crop yields, making it unsustainable in the long run.

In contrast, zero tillage allows farmers to sow wheat seeds directly into unploughed soil while leaving crop residues from the previous harvest undisturbed on the surface. This approach eliminates the need for extensive machinery and labor, offering benefits for both the soil and the environment. Specialized zero tillage machines or adapted tools are used to plant seeds directly, promoting sustainability and resource efficiency.

Benefits of Zero Tillage for Indian Farmers

Adopting zero tillage offers numerous advantages for small and marginal farmers, particularly in water-scarce areas offering sustainability and profitability. Here are the key benefits:

• 1. Reduced cultivation cost

  Traditional tilling requires several passes of machinery, which increases fuel costs and labour. Studies show that zero tillage reduces the production cost by 20%. Zero tillage eliminates the need for ploughing, reducing both equipment costs and labour expenses.

• 2. Improved soil health and fertility

  By leaving the soil undisturbed, zero tillage promotes the accumulation of organic matter, which improves soil structure, fertility, and moisture retention. This is especially crucial for sustainable farming in India’s diverse climates.

• 3. Water Conservation

  Zero tillage helps conserve water by minimizing soil evaporation. According to ResearchGate this method can save up to 15-20% of water required for irrigation.

• 4. Higher Crop Yields

  By preventing erosion and improving soil health, zero tillage contributes to higher crop yields, ensuring greater productivity for farmers.

• 5. Better Nutrient Absorption

  Zero tillage encourages the accumulation of organic matter, which enhances the soil’s ability to absorb and retain vital nutrients, further boosting crop growth.

Tackling soil health depletion with zero tillage: Women leading the way

The Allahabad Bovine Farmer Producer Company (FPC), based in Phaphamau town, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has emerged as a pioneer in addressing soil health challenges through innovative farming techniques. Registered with the Registrar of Companies in Kanpur, this FPC is a shining example of women’s leadership in agriculture, with 90 percent of its shareholders being women.

Established in November 2021, the FPC began with 304 shareholders. With support from the Bolstering Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) project, an additional 56 women farmers joined the organization, strengthening its network. This transformative shift not only underscores the potential of sustainable farming but also highlights the vital role of women in driving agricultural innovation. The Allahabad Bovine FPC played a pivotal role in this transition. With 90% of its shareholders being women, the FPC empowered members to adopt innovative practices. Zero tillage is now more than a technique, it represents a sustainable future for Indian agriculture, fostering resilience and profitability for farmers.

Overcoming Challenges in Transitioning to Zero Tillage

The shift to zero tillage, despite its clear advantages, was not without hurdles for farmers entrenched in traditional practices. In areas like Mau Aima, where conventional tilling methods have been followed for generations, adopting this innovative farming technique required a profound shift in both mindset and routine.

The Bolstering Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) project, backed by the Walmart Foundation, played a significant role in addressing these challenges. Through practical training, access to specialized zero tillage machines, and consistent support, the project empowered small and marginal farmers to embrace this sustainable method. Efforts like farmer meetings and door-to-door outreach helped build awareness about the benefits of zero tillage, gradually fostering acceptance within the farming community.

Under zero tillage, seeds are sown directly into unploughed soil, leaving crop residues undisturbed on the surface. To facilitate this transition, the Allahabad Bovine FPC established a Custom Hiring Center, equipping farmers with essential machinery, including zero tillage equipment. Despite initial scepticism, farmers like Sameem Fatima led by example, demonstrating successful results that inspired others to follow suit.

These initiatives have not only accelerated the adoption of zero tillage but have also laid a foundation for sustainable farming practices, boosting soil health, crop productivity, and agricultural resilience.

Sameem Fatima’s Success Story: A Farmer Who Paved the Way

Through collaborative efforts and knowledge-sharing initiatives, 60 percent of the members of Allahabad Bovine FPC have adopted the zero tillage method for wheat cultivation, a practice that will stay with the farmers. A total of 381.65 acres by 184 farmers have been covered under zero tillage.

This powerful shift in farming practices will continue to transform lives, paving the way for future generations.

Conclusion: The Future of Zero Tillage in Wheat Farming

The benefits of zero tillage farming extend far beyond cost savings and increased yields. This method also promotes environmental sustainability by reducing soil erosion, improving water retention, and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with traditional tilling methods.

As more farmers like Sameem Fatima share their success stories, the practice of zero tillage is likely to continue spreading. It is a promising solution to the challenges posed by climate change, water scarcity, and soil degradation in India’s wheat farming sector.

Zero tillage is a transformative farming practice that has the potential to revolutionize wheat cultivation in India. By reducing costs, conserving water, and improving soil health, this method offers a sustainable path forward for farmers. With the support of initiatives like the Bolstering FPOs project, more farmers are adopting zero tillage, leading to a more sustainable future for Indian agriculture.

Ready to embrace sustainable farming practices? Learn more about how zero tillage can transform your farming operations by exploring this blog on innovative agricultural techniques for improving soil health.

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