A Green Revolution: Ranjita's Journey to Sustainable Organic Farming

Rooted in Community and Family

Ranjita Bhoi, a small-scale farmer from Odasara village in Nayagarh district, Odisha, supports a household of five: her husband Sushanta (formerly a laborer), their son, and her parents-in-law. Together, they cultivate an 800-square-foot plot, growing paddy and a variety of vegetables—eggplants being her speciality.

Trials of Traditional Cultivation

Although a nearby canal provides irrigation, the high cost of pumping water placed significant financial strain on Ranjita. Moreover, the lush environment attracted persistent pest infestations, forcing her to spend heavily on chemical controls.

• Annual investment: ₹6,700

  • Pest management: ₹4,500

  • Irrigation (60-day cycle): ₹1,000

• Profit margins: Rarely above 9%; losses up to 35%

Despite her hard work, the conventional methods left Ranjita barely breaking even.

Embracing Greenhouse Innovation

At a local community meeting, Ranjita discovered greenhouse farming—a method promising water efficiency, pest protection, and faster crop cycles. With training and resources from Jeevan Rekha Parishad (JRP) in collaboration with Jeevika Trust (UK), she built her first greenhouse and shifted to cauliflower cultivation.

Transformative Results

Within a year and a half, Ranjita’s cost structure and returns changed dramatically:

• Revised investment: ₹5,500 annually

  • Pest control: ₹1,500

  • Irrigation: ₹500

• Profit margins: 15–25%, with no significant losses (lowest 5% due to weather)

The controlled environment accelerated growth, reduced inputs, and yielded consistently high-quality produce.

Championing Sustainable Organic Practices

Greenhouse farming has become Ranjita’s primary approach. By minimizing chemical fertilizers and leveraging integrated pest management, she now practices near-organic cultivation. This not only boosts soil health but also meets growing market demand for eco-friendly vegetables.

Impact and Inspiration

Ranjita’s success has inspired neighbouring farmers to explore greenhouse techniques. Her partnership with her husband, shared dedication, and Jeevika Trust’s support exemplify how innovation can revitalize rural livelihoods.