Cluster Bean Demonstration | Wardha, Maharashtra 

For smallholder farmers, crop diversification can offer an important pathway towards managing risk, improving resource efficiency, and opening new income opportunities. 

At Sawali Bu in Karanja, Wardha, a Kharif demonstration and farmer exposure program introduced Cluster Bean (Gawar) as a potential high-value crop with relatively low water requirements. 

The demonstration brought together 135 farmers, who received practical exposure to raised-bed planting, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM). Discussions also explored cultivation of economics, market opportunities, and the suitability of the crop for local conditions. 

The program went beyond demonstrating a crop. Farmers interacted with representatives from the agriculture department, rural livelihood institutions, local governance and the project team on government schemes, SHG-based opportunities and the role AEs can play in connecting communities with relevant technologies and services.