Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 27 Nov: The Madho Singh Bhandari Cooperative Collective Farming Scheme, operated under the Cooperation Department, is proving to be a boon for barren and abandoned agricultural land. Through this scheme, not only are once–deserted fields turning green again, but farmers’ livelihoods are also being strengthened. At present, collective farming is being carried out on 1,235 acres of land under the scheme, benefiting nearly 2,400 farmers associated with 24 cooperative societies across the state.
The State Government has developed a strong model of cooperative collective farming to rejuvenate agricultural fields left barren due to migration. Under the Madho Singh Bhandari Cooperative Group Farming Scheme, barren land in each block has been identified, with a target to revive 4,750 acres of unused land. A total of 70 clusters were selected, out of which 24 clusters are currently undertaking collective farming through selected cooperative societies, using modern technology and locally available resources.
Collective farming is being carried out in four clusters each in Nainital and Pauri districts; one each in Almora, Rudraprayag, Haridwar, Chamoli and Dehradun; and two cooperative societies in Champawat district. These clusters are cultivating millets, off-season vegetables, pulses, fruits, medicinal and aromatic plants, fodder crops, and other commercial crops. Additionally, the scheme is promoting agri-tourism. Through these societies, collective farming is currently underway on 1,235 acres of land, directly benefiting approximately 2,400 farmers.
The Madho Singh Bhandari Cooperative Group Farming Scheme is not only restoring the productivity of previously unused land but is also economically empowering farmers. Moreover, the scheme is encouraging reverse migration. The Cooperation Department aims to expand this model of collective farming in the coming years, promoting agriculture-based employment in migration-affected regions and providing new strength to the rural economy.
“The Madho Singh Bhandari Cooperative Group Farming Scheme is proving to be a milestone in the direction of rural development and agricultural renaissance in the state. The scheme is not only making barren land fertile again but also organising farmers and making them self-reliant,” stated Dr Dhan Singh Rawat, Cooperation Minister, Uttarakhand.
