What is ‘hangadi kheti’?
‘Hangadi kheti’ is a traditional multi-cropping technique utilized in Rajasthan. This method involves cultivating various crops such as maize, legumes, and vegetables concurrently in the same field. By doing so, farmers can efficiently share resources and significantly reduce water consumption.
A new initiative by Vaagdhara in collaboration with the Hindustan Unilever Foundation aims to integrate traditional ‘hangadi kheti’ with advanced drip irrigation systems. This modernization allows tribal farmers in Rajasthan to utilize water more effectively, which ultimately leads to increased crop yields.
The advantages of this agricultural practice are multifaceted. They include:
The program primarily benefits tribal communities residing in the upper Mahi basin area of Banswara district. These communities often face erratic rainfall and challenging soil conditions. This initiative plays a vital role in stabilizing their primary source of income, which is agriculture.
The initiative provides training to local farmers, now referred to as ‘jal doots’ or water messengers. They learn to manage water resources effectively and implement sustainable farming practices, thereby enhancing their agricultural knowledge and skills.
The integration of ‘hangadi kheti’ with drip irrigation maximizes water usage efficiency and bolsters the resilience of agriculture against climatic challenges. This combination leads to more sustainable agricultural practices suited to the arid conditions of Rajasthan.
“Development is not just about factories, dams, and roads. Development is about people. The goal is material, cultural, and spiritual fulfillment for the people. The human factor is of supreme value in development.” — Rajiv Gandhi. This statement underscores the importance of adopting human-centric approaches in development initiatives.
Q1. What is the significance of hangadi kheti in Rajasthan?
Answer: Hangadi kheti is significant as it promotes resource sharing and water conservation through multi-cropping, making agriculture more sustainable in Rajasthan's arid climate.
Q2. How does drip irrigation benefit tribal farmers?
Answer: Drip irrigation benefits tribal farmers by enhancing water efficiency, leading to higher crop yields and improved resilience against climatic variability.
Q3. Who are the ‘jal doots’?
Answer: ‘Jal doots’ are local farmers trained to manage water resources effectively and implement sustainable agricultural methods in their communities.
Q4. What challenges do tribal farmers face in Rajasthan?
Answer: Tribal farmers in Rajasthan face challenges such as erratic rainfall, poor soil conditions, and limited access to modern agricultural techniques, affecting their livelihoods.
Q5. Why is multi-cropping important for farmers in drought-prone areas?
Answer: Multi-cropping is crucial for farmers in drought-prone areas as it helps ensure crop survival, maximizes resource use, and stabilizes income from agriculture.
Question 1: What is ‘hangadi kheti’ primarily used for?
A) Single crop farming
B) Multi-cropping technique
C) Organic farming
D) Livestock management
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Who are the main beneficiaries of the new initiative in Rajasthan?
A) Urban farmers
B) Tribal communities
C) Agricultural corporations
D) Government officials
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the role of ‘jal doots’ in the initiative?
A) Selling crops
B) Managing water resources
C) Teaching urban farming
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What modern technique is integrated with hangadi kheti?
A) Organic fertilizers
B) Drip irrigation
C) Hydroponics
D) Greenhouses
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: Which district is primarily involved in the hangadi kheti initiative?
A) Jaipur
B) Banswara
C) Udaipur
D) Jodhpur
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What is a significant benefit of combining traditional and modern farming methods?
A) Increased labor costs
B) Enhanced crop resilience
C) Reduced crop diversity
D) Decreased farmer income
Correct Answer: B
Question 7: What is one of the main goals of the initiative in Rajasthan?
A) Increase urban farming
B) Promote factory development
C) Stabilize agricultural livelihoods
D) Encourage deforestation
Correct Answer: C
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