PRAYAGRAJ, 11 May 2025: In a bid to promote sustainable and chemical-free agriculture, the Uttar Pradesh government has enlisted Krishi Sakhis to mobilize farmers for cow-based natural farming across all 23 blocks of Prayagraj district.

These women agricultural guides, selected from self-help groups under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), are being trained to act as frontline educators and enablers at the village level. Their mandate includes raising awareness, building capacity, and offering hands-on support for natural farming and soil health management.

"Krishi Sakhis are being trained at Krishak Vikas Kendras in 12 clusters from May 13 onwards," a senior agriculture department official said. Two women from each cluster will receive intensive training, with a monthly stipend of INR 5,000.

If no Krishi Sakhi is available in a given agricultural cluster, the role will be filled by a trained community resource person. Farmers who adopt natural farming methods will also receive INR 4,000 annually as an incentive.

Currently, over 1,500 farmers practice natural farming in the region, with 12 designated clusters — seven in Jasra block and five in Bhagwatpur — covering about 500 hectares each.

The initiative aims to empower women—traditionally the backbone of India’s agricultural workforce—to lead a transition toward low-cost, climate-resilient, and non-chemical farming systems. Officials note that excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers has degraded soil health, reducing productivity for small and marginal farmers.

By turning women into agents of change, the government hopes to amplify the reach and effectiveness of its sustainable agriculture mission across rural Uttar Pradesh.