From tradition to transformation: Triveni Khairwar’s journey with regenerative agriculture

By Bappa Mridha

In the heart of Mouriya village in Balaghat district, Madhya Pradesh, 30-year-old Triveni Khairwar is leading a quiet revolution in farming. A mother of two and a farmer for over a decade, Triveni’s efforts were once limited by traditional practices and scarce resources. But today, she stands as a beacon of hope for her community, showcasing how innovative farming techniques and sustainable practices can transform barren lands into thriving agricultural fields.

In November 2023, Triveni attended a meeting organized by her SHG, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mahila Mandal, where she was introduced to the Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Project, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Reliance Foundation. The project, implemented by PRADAN in collaboration with MP-SRLM and Srijan in Madhya Pradesh, aimed to improve women’s incomes through sustainable agricultural interventions.

A key component of this initiative was the introduction of the Net House model, a low-cost farming innovation designed by Kheyti for smallholder farmers. The earlier net house models had high production costs, limited focus on smallholders with big land size requirement, and insufficient climate consideration while this model protects crops from pests, erratic weather, and excessive water usage while improving yields and crop quality. Inspired by this idea, Triveni began her journey of learning new-age farming techniques and implementing them on her land.

Breathing Life into 6 Decimals of Land

As part of her training, Triveni adopted regenerative agriculture practices, focusing on restoring soil health and reducing dependency on chemical inputs. Using bio-fertilizers like Trichoderma viride and Pseudomonas fluorescens, organic inputs such as vermicompost and Jivamrit, and tools like sticky traps and organic pesticides, Triveni transformed 6 decimals of previously barren land into a productive farm.

To further enhance efficiency, she incorporated the drip irrigation system recommended under the Kheyti Net House model, which drastically reduced water usage while ensuring consistent crop health.

With a small investment of ₹3,880, Triveni cultivated 250 brinjal and 300 chili saplings during the summer season of 2024. The results were extraordinary: Triveni harvested 5 quintals of brinjal and 60 kg of chili, earning ₹20,100. Previously, this land had remained unproductive during the summer, contributing nothing to her family's income.

"This land was once barren, lifeless—but today, it yields up to ₹20,000! I still can’t believe it," shares Triveni, her voice brimming with excitement. "The intervention has transformed what seemed like wasteland into thriving, productive plots.”

Economic Empowerment Through Innovation

Triveni’s newfound practices have significantly improved her family’s financial standing. Her annual income rose from ₹86,000 in previous years to over ₹1,06,100 this year—a 23% increase. This boost came largely from integrating summer cultivation with regenerative and climate-resilient farming methods.

The Net House model by Kheyti, combined with regenerative agriculture, has empowered Triveni to overcome challenges like limited irrigation infrastructure and unpredictable weather. Her success has also inspired other farmers in Mouriya to explore similar approaches, creating a ripple effect in the community.

Looking Ahead

Triveni is now focused on expanding her farming endeavors. Her future plans include cultivating high-value cash crops like capsicum and broccoli and engaging in year-round farming. She also intends to enhance her skills through continued training in regenerative agriculture.

"Regenerative Agriculture Practices are not just about boosting productivity—they are about preserving the environment and ensuring the sustainability of our farms and livelihoods," says Triveni.

Triveni Khairwar’s journey highlights the power of innovation and collaboration in transforming the lives of smallholder farmers. By combining sustainable farming techniques with the Kheyti Net House model, she is building a resilient and prosperous future—not just for herself, but for her entire community.

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