How a Women’s Self-Help Group in Rayagada is Revolutionizing Agriculture with Dragon Fruit

In Rayagada, a women's self-help group has successfully ventured into dragon fruit cultivation, showcasing a remarkable example of rural entrepreneurship. Supported by the Odisha Livelihoods Mission, the group has transformed a small-scale farming initiative into a profitable venture, with expectations of earning Rs 7–8 lakh annually. This initiative not only provides a sustainable income but also empowers women, enhancing their confidence and community standing. Learn more about their journey and the impact of this agricultural innovation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2025, 09:59 IST

Innovative Farming in Rayagada

Rayagada: A women's self-help group (WSHG) in the Rayagada district has made significant strides in dragon fruit cultivation, showcasing a model of rural entrepreneurship and agricultural innovation through the Odisha Livelihoods Mission (OLM).

Members of the Maa Nanda Ganda WSHG, located in Gogupadu panchayat within the Ramanaguda block, were motivated to engage in dragon fruit farming as part of a project designed to boost income for small-scale farmers.

This initiative, part of OLM’s high-value crop scheme, has yielded both literal and financial benefits.

After consultations with officials from agriculture, horticulture, and livelihoods sectors, a block-level committee was established to facilitate the project.

Soil testing was performed, and expert advice from the Agriculture Department and MGNREGA was utilized for land preparation.

The WSHG members participated in an exposure visit to Phiringia block in Kandhamal district, where they received practical training in dragon fruit cultivation.

They subsequently began farming on 0.75 acres, erecting 150 concrete poles and frames at an investment of Rs 1.8 lakh, along with an additional Rs 30,000 for 600 saplings.

All costs were subsidized through support from the Odisha Livelihoods Mission and the horticulture department, which also assisted with drip irrigation and planting materials.

The fruits are now ripening, and the group has started selling them in local markets. With current prices at Rs 300 per kilogram, the SHG anticipates an annual income of approximately Rs 7–8 lakh from this venture.

The members attribute their success to the guidance of former Rayagada Collector and CEO Parul Patawari, along with the direct oversight of District Planning Officer and Executive Officer Akshay Kumar Khemundu.

They express that this initiative has not only created a sustainable income source but has also enhanced their confidence and community status.

"Rayagada is primarily an agriculture-driven district where farmers typically cultivate paddy, millets, and maize, but the returns often do not reflect their efforts. To empower women and enhance their livelihoods, we promoted dragon fruit farming, which has been successful, leading many women to achieve financial independence," stated Khemundu.