The U3 program, driven by its mission to foster self-sustaining climate-resilient and adaptive agriculture and livelihoods through community-owned processes, has been a lifeline for the marginalized and differently-abled, much like Tepru Soren and his family.

Tepru Soren resides in the serene village of Lahanda, nestled in the heart of Rampur GP within the Raiganj Block of Uttar Dinajpur District. His family comprises two children, a boy and a girl, who attend the nearby government primary school. Tepru, a marginal farmer with only half an acre of land, diligently tends to crops like brinjal, chili, and potatoes on a small scale. However, life posed a unique set of challenges for Tepru, who grappled with physical disability, rendering him unable to work as others could. His limited capacity to earn meant that he struggled to provide for his children and his wife, Loxmi, who primarily managed the household.

The mere half-acre of land at his disposal could not support the livelihoods of four people. Tepru tirelessly sought employment opportunities at government and other offices but found no success. He did receive a monthly allowance of Rs. 1000 through the disability scheme, thanks to the assistance of Uttoran project staff within U3 –I. But this income was far from sufficient. The family relied on midday meals in government schools to supplement their nutrition and sustain their meager existence. Tepru did his best to ensure the well-being of his family.

In August, Tepru’s life transformed as he actively engaged in Uttoran project meetings. During one particular training session on organic agriculture and the importance of growth promoters, a Community Educator elucidated the process of cultivation without synthetic fertilizers, emphasizing the use of growth promoters such as LAB (Lactic Acid Bacteria), FAA (Fish Amino Acid), and FFJ (Fermented Fruit Juice).

Tepru Soren sat quietly, absorbing every piece of knowledge presented during the training. He was an active participant, actively interacting with the team and diligently memorizing the entire process.

Upon returning home, Tepru’s mind was abuzz with newfound possibilities. He recognized the potential benefits of adopting this cultivation method and was inspired to give it a try. He procured the necessary ingredients for growth promoters, storing them carefully in a shaded spot. His initial attempt at cultivating bitter gourd did not yield profits, largely due to miscalculations in using the growth promoters – he had used too much and too little water. Correct measurements dictated mixing 10 ml of growth promoters in one liter of water.

For his second attempt, he focused on growing gourd, with the U3 staff assisting in sourcing the seeds from the Beej bhander of Raiganj and facilitating seed purification using salt and water. Without the use of chemical fertilizers, Tepru meticulously cared for the plants, even creating protective seed beds. He invested Rs. 3000 in ropes, bamboo, manure, and other resources, in addition to utilizing locally available materials for bio inputs.

Tepru’s journey took a pivotal turn when the U3 program’s community educator connected him with a local wholesaler in Rampur for the sale of his organic produce. They convinced the wholesaler to pick up Tepru’s produce from his home, considering his inability to carry it to the shop. Tepru would call the wholesaler when his gourds were ready, and they would promptly collect them. The villagers also contributed to his success by purchasing gourds from him.

In the monsoon season from July to September, Tepru achieved a remarkable feat, cultivating five quintals of gourds and earning Rs. 7500. Daily sales of vegetables alleviated his financial struggles, and Tepru radiated happiness. Grateful for the support from the Uttoran staff, he exclaimed, “I am inspired by the U3 project, and my life has undergone a complete transformation. Now, I want to grow even more vegetables and teach others, because I’ve reaped the benefits, and I’m earning well.”

The U3 program, with its focus on community-owned processes and self-sustaining livelihoods, has not only uplifted Tepru Soren but also countless others like him. Tepru’s story stands as a testament to the program’s commitment to improving the socio-economic conditions of beneficiaries and sustaining their livelihood opportunities. It showcases the remarkable power of knowledge, support, and determination in bringing about transformative change, particularly for those who need it most.