Maihar, Madhya Pradesh: In the rural villages surrounding Maihar, a community-based livelihood initiative supported by UltraTech Cement is creating new opportunities for women and small farmers. Implemented by Lok Kalyan Bhumika Samiti (LKBS), the programme focuses on strengthening local livelihoods through skill development, sustainable agriculture, and income diversification.
The initiative currently covers four villages of Maihar, where several practical interventions have been introduced to help rural households enhance their income while promoting environmentally sustainable practices.
One of the key components of the project is Oyster Mushroom Cultivation, where 150 women have been trained and two mushroom hutments have been established for demonstration and production. Mushroom cultivation has emerged as a promising livelihood option, particularly for rural women, as it requires limited space and investment while providing regular income opportunities. These units serve as learning spaces where trainees gain hands-on experience in mushroom cultivation and production cycles.
Alongside this activity, the project is also promoting Bamboo Handicraft training for 50 women, encouraging them to utilize locally available bamboo resources to develop simple handicraft products. The training sessions focus on developing practical skills while preserving traditional craft knowledge.
Another important component of the initiative is the promotion of Azolla cultivation as a sustainable agricultural practice. Under the project, 30 Azolla beds are being constructed with 30 farmers in the participating villages. Azolla is widely recognized as a nutrient-rich livestock feed that helps farmers reduce dependency on expensive commercial feed.
To strengthen farm-based livelihoods further, 30 beneficiaries are receiving training on modern vegetable farming techniques. The training focuses on improved cultivation practices, soil health management, and integrated pest management methods that help farmers maintain productivity while reducing pest infestation and excessive chemical usage.
The combined impact of these initiatives is contributing to income diversification for rural households, improved agricultural practices, and enhanced community participation in livelihood activities. For many women, these opportunities are not only a source of income but also a pathway toward greater self-reliance and decision-making within their families.
The initiative is currently being implemented with the support of UltraTech Cement, with the project running under the guidance of Mr. Nimesh Raj, Senior Officer – CSR. The on-ground implementation is being carried out by Lok Kalyan Bhumika Samiti, with programme execution led under the leadership of Ms. Rekha Kushwaha, President.
Through such collaborative efforts, the programme is gradually building a model of community-driven livelihood development, demonstrating how skill training, sustainable agriculture, and local enterprise promotion can strengthen rural economies and create meaningful change at the grassroots level.
