In a remarkable turnaround, Vincent Chermako, a 47-year-old farmer from Dolgaon village in Assam’s Kokrajhar district, has transformed his struggling 2.5-acre farm into a thriving, diversified agricultural enterprise. This success story, facilitated by the Farm Northeast IV program, showcases the powerful impact of farm diversification on smallholder farmers’ livelihoods.

Vincent’s monthly income has surged from ₹6,000 to ₹10,000, with potential for further growth, following his shift from monocropping to an integrated farming system. The transformation, guided by the Bongaigaon Gana Seva Society (BGSS), has not only improved his family’s standard of living but also inspired fellow farmers in his community.

Farm diversification, the practice of expanding beyond traditional single-crop farming, has proven to be a game-changer for Vincent. By incorporating a variety of crops such as potatoes, spinach, onions, garlic, radish, bottle gourd, and bitter gourd, along with livestock including pigs, goats, chickens, and ducks, he has created multiple income streams and reduced his vulnerability to crop failures and market fluctuations.

The Farm Northeast IV project played a crucial role in Vincent’s success by providing orientation sessions and training programs on Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) conducted by KVK. These interventions equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to optimize his farm through diversified agricultural practices.

Anthony Basumatary, FPA of BGSS, highlighted the significance of Vincent’s journey, stating, “Vincent’s transformation exemplifies the impact of knowledge-driven interventions. His willingness to adopt new farming techniques has not only enhanced his own livelihood but has also inspired many farmers in the community.”

Prior to the intervention, Vincent struggled to support his family of six, including his elderly parents, wife, and two school-going children, through monocropping of rice and jute. His fields lay fallow for six months each year, and he lacked technical knowledge and access to government support.

The success of Vincent’s farm diversification underscores the importance of programs like Farm Northeast in empowering smallholder farmers. By providing targeted support, training, and resources, such initiatives can help transform rural livelihoods and contribute to more resilient and sustainable agricultural communities across India.