AEGF’s interventions across Assam and North Bengal continue to pave the way for inclusive rural development, diversification of agriculture, and stronger market linkages. This month’s activities underscore our collaborative approach, with strategic partnerships, government convergence, and community-based impact. 

Introducing Oil Palm Cultivation in Assam: AEGF & Patanjali Collaboration 

In alignment with the Government of Assam’s goal to diversify agriculture and boost farmer incomes, AEGF collaborated with Patanjali Food Limited (PFL) to introduce oil palm cultivation across tea-growing regions of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia. 

Three hands-on training sessions were conducted in: 

• Bajipohumara, Dibrugarh – 32 STGs 

• Dhulijan Gaon, Tinsukia – 36 STGs 

• Borahi Do Pather, Dibrugarh – 24 STGs 

Farmers were educated on plantation techniques, intercropping, maintenance practices, and the benefits of adopting oil palm as a high-yield crop. Notably, 11+ STGs expressed interest in initiating oil palm plantations. 

Support by Patanjali Food Limited included 

• 100% subsidized planting material 

• Assured market buy-back model 

• Financial support for drip irrigation and maintenance 

• Technical advisory and nursery setup 

• Access to benefits under NMEO-OP (National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm) 

This collaboration represents a scalable model for agri-diversification and long-term farmer income enhancement in the North East. 

Success in Dragon Fruit Cultivation – Dibrugarh 

Marking a milestone in our diversification journey, Pushpa Newar, an STG from Nemupather, Dibrugarh, has successfully cultivated dragon fruit, supported by AEGF. His plot has begun bearing fruit, and the first harvest of 37 kg sold at ₹300/kg demonstrates the crop’s commercial viability. Market linkage was facilitated directly, validating this as a replicable, income-generating intervention. 

Access to Government Schemes for STGs 

Under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), four Small Tea Growers (STGs) have benefitted from government-supported micro-irrigation infrastructure. As part of this initiative aimed at improving water-use efficiency and crop productivity, the STGs received: 

• 4 water pumps 

• 80 irrigation pipes 

• 48 sprinkler nozzles 

With an 85% subsidy on a total project cost of ₹8 lakhs, farmers are contributing just 15%, significantly easing their financial burden. This support will enhance irrigation for both tea plantations and vegetable cultivation, aligning with the national mission’s goal, ‘Har Khet Ko Pani.’ 

In addition, two Self-Help Groups (SHGs) received transport vehicles under the Tea Board of India’s promotional scheme, aimed at improving post-harvest logistics and market access. 

The SHGs were also supported with essential equipment, including 1 Desktop computer, 220 Leaf Carrying Bags, 4 Weighing Scales, 6 Pruners, 13 Tea Harvesters, 13 Sprayers, 6 Brush Cutters, 165 Harvesting Baskets and A Revolving Corpus Fund of ₹50,000 

These government linkages are empowering grassroots producer groups with tools and mobility, driving better productivity, quality, and market competitiveness.