Celebrating World Youth Skills Day: Pinki Kumari, an Inspiring Trailblazer, Highlights the Power of Vocational Training in Igniting Hope in Rural Communities across India
In the heart of Jharkhand, Pinki Kumari, a resident of Fadilmarcha village in the Ranchi district, has transformed her life and the lives of many around her through her dedication to modern farming. Pinki's journey is a testament to the Millionaire Farmers Development Programme (MFDP), an initiative aimed at empowering women in rural India.
The MFDP offers a unique blend of skill-based training, exposure to tested models, and guidance on modern farming methods. For Pinki, this meant learning techniques like grafting, intercropping, and protected cultivation, which have revolutionised her farming practices. These methods have enabled her to cultivate high-value crops such as tomatoes, strawberries, cauliflower, and watermelon on over 2.5 acres of land, resulting in an impressive annual income of Rs 13.24 lakhs.
The MFDP also emphasises leadership roles for women farmers, challenging traditional gender norms. Pinki, once a farmer's wife, is now a local agricultural trainer, guiding both men and women in her village. Her transformation serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for many young women in rural India, demonstrating that farming can be a pathway to economic independence.
Pinki's success didn't come easily. She faced financial hardship, with an annual income of just Rs 2.45 lakhs before joining the MFDP. Her farming practices were stuck in a cycle of loss and uncertainty due to limited access to technology, information, and government support. However, through training, exposure visits, and hands-on learning, Pinki adopted practices like drip irrigation, mulching, and protected cultivation, which have significantly improved her yields and reduced losses.
Pinki's farm is now a demonstration site for others, showcasing the potential of modern farming methods. Her achievements have not gone unnoticed. Bapi Gorai, a senior practitioner at TRI, highlights Pinki's success as evidence that farming can be profitable with modern methods, diverse cropping, and smart use of technology.
The MFDP's impact extends beyond Pinki's personal success. The programme has established Village Development Committees (VDCs) to identify local talent and help women access resources and training. This community-based empowerment is crucial in fostering respect and recognition for women farmers in their villages.
Despite the strides made by the MFDP, there is still a long way to go. According to a NITI Aayog report, women-led micro-enterprises account for only 20% of all MSMEs in India. Addressing gender barriers in youth-focused programmes, like the MFDP, is essential to ensure that more women like Pinki can break free from poverty and become key drivers of change in their communities.
Pinki's story is a shining example of what can be achieved when women are empowered with the right resources and opportunities. Her journey serves as a reminder that with the right support, anyone can overcome adversity and achieve greatness.
In addition to modern farming practices, Pinki's transformation also involves her active involvement in health-and-wellness and women's health, as she aspires to ensure her family's well-being and promote these topics within her community.
Furthermore, Pinki's educational journey doesn't stop at agriculture. Her ambition for self-development and personal growth motivates her to continually seek new knowledge and skills, including reading books on education-and-self-development to enhance her leadership abilities and make an even greater impact in her Village Development Committee.
