Kaushambi. Farmers in Patti Narwar village located in Muratganj block of the district are changing their lives through bitter gourd cultivation. Leaving aside the limited profits from traditional farming, the farmers of the village have set a successful example of cash crop by growing bitter gourd on more than 250 bighas of land.
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The month of July has special significance for these farmers. The bitter gourd crop, which is ready in two to three months, has not only improved their financial condition but has also given them an opportunity to earn manifold profits from their hard work. Farmers are getting much more profit than the cost by selling bitter gourd in the open market.
Government support in bitter gourd cultivation
Under the National Agricultural Development Scheme, the Horticulture Department gave grant to farmers in Patti Narwar village for the cultivation of bitter gourd on a large scale. With the help of the Horticulture Department, bitter gourd is being cultivated on about 1000 bighas of land in the village. Figures show that by growing bitter gourd in one bigha, farmers are earning a net profit of Rs 50,000 to Rs 80,000. This initiative is not only proving helpful in increasing their income but is also empowering the rural economy.
Demand for Ayurvedic properties is increasing
Horticulture Officer Surendra Ram Bhaskar said that due to the Ayurvedic characteristics of bitter gourd, its demand remains throughout the year. It is considered a panacea in the treatment of diseases like diabetes. Farmers are getting the benefit of this demand, due to which they are earning profits throughout the year.
Trend from traditional farming towards cash crops
Village farmers are now giving preference to cash crops instead of traditional farming. This change is improving their standard of living as well as showing a new direction in the agriculture sector. This model of bitter gourd cultivation is becoming an inspiration for other villages. Bitter gourd cultivation has proved that with hard work and proper guidance, farming can also become a profitable deal.
