By Milind Patil, Project Coordinator, CYDA
In the Indian economy, agriculture plays a pivotal role. To ensure food security and drive inclusive economic growth, it is essential that more people-especially the youth-actively engage in agriculture. However, recent surveys, including the 2024 State of Rural Youth Employment Report and the Economic Survey of India (2024–25), show that Indian youth are increasingly disinterested in agriculture as a profession. Over 70% of rural youth employed in agriculture want to shift to non-farm jobs, citing low income, poor productivity, and lack of social recognition. Regional studies in states like Maharashtra and Telangana confirm this trend, with many young people preferring small businesses or salaried work over farming. Even global reports like FAO’s 2025 study highlight India’s declining youth participation in agrifood systems-posing a potential challenge to the nation’s long-term food and economic sustainability.
Recognising the need to make farming more viable and attractive, Centre for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA), in collaboration with the ASK Foundation, launched an initiative in Nandurbar district to support young and tribal farmers by introducing sustainable agricultural practices and practical technological solutions.
The program focuses on three key areas: building farmers’ skills through hands-on training, improving resource efficiency with tools like drip irrigation, and providing ongoing mentoring to guide farmers through challenges. This approach helps address specific regional issues such as water scarcity, low seasonal productivity, and limited income. It also gives young farmers the confidence to stay in agriculture by showing them that farming can be profitable and innovative.
Transformative Journey of a Young Farmer
Mohan Jamsing Valvi is a young tribal farmer from Ranipur village in Shahada block, Nandurbar. He, like many small farmers in India, has worked hard using traditional methods but faced constant struggles due to changing weather, low returns, and a lack of modern technical support. Even with these challenges, he was eager to improve his practices. He wanted to have good livelihood and make better use of his family land. His willingness to learn and experiment made him a perfect candidate for the intervention supported by CYDA and ASK Foundation.
The Challenge: Water Scarcity After Winter
One of the biggest problems Mohan faced was water shortage during the dry season, especially after December. As winter ended, traditional irrigation methods failed to meet the water needs of his crops. Without a reliable system to manage water efficiently, his 0.5-acre farm remained underused during a period that could have supported cultivation. This reduced his income and left him uncertain about the future of his farm. Mohan knew that continuing with the same methods would not help him grow.
The Intervention: Drip Irrigation as a Solution
To address this issue, a drip irrigation system was implemented on Mohan’s farm.This technique delivers water directly to the base of the plants in a slow and steady manner, reducing wastage and helping the crops grow better even when water is limited. Mohan received training from agricultural experts to install, use, and maintain the drip irrigation system. He also learned how to plan the layout of his farm and choose the right crops for the season-brinjal and tomato-which suited the soil and weather in his village. Mohan carefully followed the maintenance steps shared by the expert. He used the system as instructed, applied the new farming methods, and regularly checked the health of his crops throughout the season.
Maximising Returns from a Small Plot
Despite working with just half an acre of land during the dry season, he achieved remarkable results through careful planning and smart farming techniques. He harvested 20 quintals and 50 kilograms of brinjal, which he sold at ₹20 per kg, earning ₹41,000. He also cultivated 4 quintals and 80 kilograms of tomato, which sold at ₹10 per kg, adding another ₹4,800 to his income. In total, he earned ₹45,800-a remarkable income from a small piece of land during a difficult farming period. This result was exceptional for the season, as many farmers usually leave their land fallow due to water scarcity. Mohan proved that small-scale farming during the dry season can generate good income when supported with efficient methods.
Community Impact: A Shift in Mindset
Mohan’s success has gained attention in his village and nearby areas. His story inspires others to rethink their approach to farming.The outcomes of this intervention have shown clear benefits:
- Better water use: Drip irrigation helped reduce wastage and ensured steady crop growth.
- Year-round cultivation: Farming during the dry season became possible, improving land use.
- Improved income: Mohan’s earnings from a small plot were much higher than usual.
- Local inspiration: More farmers are now open to trying modern techniques.
Inspiring a New Generation
Mohan’s journey has made him a role model in the community. He plans to expand his farming practices, try new crops, and share his learning with others. With continued guidance, he is confident about building a better future for his family and inspiring others to do the same. His journey shows how simple, practical changes in agriculture can bring meaningful results. With the right kind of knowledge, support, and technology, young farmers like Mohan can create strong and sustainable livelihoods-and rebuild trust in farming as a viable profession.
