Case story: From Struggles to Success: Suryamati and Ramdin’s Journey with Machan Farming

Introduction

In the heart of Khutwa village, situated in Kudia Gram Panchayat, Siddharthnagar district, Uttar Pradesh, Suryamati and Ramdin were struggling to sustain their family through traditional farming. However, their adoption of Machan Farming, introduced by Swabhiman Samiti under the Fasal-2 Project, revolutionized their lives. The couple embraced this innovative farming technique, overcoming financial struggles and inspiring a wave of change in their community.

The Challenge

1. Insufficient Income from Traditional Farming:
   • With just 0.12 acres of land, growing wheat yielded a mere 2 quintals, leaving a net income of only ₹1,200. This was insufficient to support their 12-member family.
2. Dependence on Migrant Labor:
   • Their eldest son, Rabindra, worked 7-8 months a year in another state to supplement the household income.
3. Lack of Awareness of Modern Techniques:
   • Stuck with conventional farming methods, the couple lacked exposure to cost-efficient, sustainable agricultural practices.

The Solution

In September 2015, Suryamati and Ramdin became members of the Asha Women Farmers’ Group, a key initiative under the Fasal-2 Project by Swabhiman Samiti. Through this program, they were introduced to Machan Farming, a vertical cultivation technique that optimizes land use.

Key Interventions:

1. Training on Advanced Techniques:
   • Sessions on water conservation, pest management, and diversified cropping.
   • Practical demonstrations on building and utilizing machans for vertical farming.
2. Material and Technical Support:
   • Step-by-step guidance for setting up machans, sourcing bamboo, GI wire, ropes, compost, seeds, and other resources.
3. Encouragement to Start Small:
   • Field supervisors provided ongoing support, encouraging them to test Machan Farming on a small scale.