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Sowing Sustainability: Dipti Gogoi’s Journey to Organic Farming Success
Introduction
Dipti Gogoi, a hardworking woman farmer from Mogroi village of East Jorhat block, lives with her husband who has been partially incapacitated due to an accident. Despite the hardships, she has taken on the role of the primary breadwinner, relying on agriculture and livestock activities as their main source of income. She spends her days cultivating seasonal crops and rearing livestock in their backyard, ensuring their survival and striving for a better future.
Until she came into contact with SeSTA, their farming practices were traditional and heavily reliant on chemical fertilizers, harming the environment and affecting their health and productivity.
Intervention by SeSTA
SeSTA’s intervention marked a significant turning point in Dipti’s farming journey. She received training on preparing organic fertilizers and pesticides, which not only reduced her dependence on chemical inputs but also improved the overall health of her soil and crops. With support from ABF, through the PRIDE project, she installed a vermi bed in her field, which enabled her to produce high-quality vermicompost using cow dung, banana tree waste, and other vegetable waste.
Cmpact and further planning
The impact was almost immediate as her crops began to flourish, and she was able to harvest a bountiful yield of organic cucumber, long bean, and ridge gourd. The use of vermicompost resulted in healthier plants, improved soil fertility, and increased resistance to pests and diseases. Dipti’s hard work paid off, and she was able to sell her produce at a profit, earning a significant income of Rs. 15,000 in just one season.
The financial gains were a welcome relief, as Dipti could use the money to support her husband’s medical treatment. But more than that, she felt a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that she had taken a significant step towards sustainable agriculture practices.
Conclusion
Dipti’s success story is a testament to the power of sustainable agriculture and the impact it can have on the lives of women farmers. With the support of SeSTA and ABF, Dipti has been able to transform her farming practices, improve her livelihood, and contribute to a more environmentally friendly food system. As Dipti looks to the future, she is already planning for the next season, eager to experiment with new crops and techniques.