| A three-day skill development training programme on "Skill Development of Women Farmers in Enterprise-based Agricultural Activities for Sustainable Livelihood" was organised by the ICAR-Central Institute for Women in Agriculture (ICAR-CIWA) for women farmers under the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP) during 23-25 September 2026 at Nilakanthapur Village under Derabish Block of Kendrapara District. |
| The main objective of the programme was to enhance the knowledge, confidence, group-based enterprise management skills and livelihood opportunities of Scheduled Caste women farmers. It also aimed to create awareness among the women farmers about various enterprise-based agricultural and allied activities, value addition, group formation, book-keeping, and a market-oriented approach. |
| The programme began with an introductory session and a participatory exercise to understand the needs, expectations and perceptions of the participating women farmers regarding agriculture, allied sectors and enterprise-based activities. The importance of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and collective effort was discussed, highlighting how working in groups can support enterprise formation, procurement of inputs, value addition, market linkage and better prices for produce. Participants were also made aware of the higher income potential from processing, packaging and marketing their produce rather than selling it as a raw product with women's economic self-reliance presented as key to greater participation in family and society. The officials and representatives from various concerned departments attended the closing session. They interacted with the participating women farmers and also felicitated them. On this occasion, the active participation and enthusiasm of the women during the three-day training programme was appreciated. |
| The programme was coordinated by Dr. Lipi Das, Principal Scientist (Agricultural Extension), ICAR-CIWA. Mr. Hemanta Kumar Samal, CDAO, Kendrapada; Mr. Sidhharth Yadav, District Coordinator, My Bharat; Mr. Mukesh Kumar Dhal, Proprietor, Dhal Agritech, and other developmental personnel participated in this programme. The successful conclusion of this programme was an important step towards helping Scheduled Caste women farmers explore sustainable, enterprise-based and income-generating livelihood opportunities, while further strengthening their participation in agriculture and the rural economy. |
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