Blackgram Seed Production in Malda: A Profitable and Sustainable Farming Practice for Livelihood

Name: Ms. Alpana Chowdhury
Village: Paschim Narayanpur
District: Malda (West Bengal)

Profile:
Ms. Alpana Chowdhury, aged 55, is a 9th pass farmer from NICRA village under Malda KVK. She owns 0.26 ha of land and manages her farm with a pump set. A hardworking, innovative woman, she has been involved in agriculture since childhood, assisting her father, and later adopting farming independently after marriage. She is also an active member of Milan Tithi SHG.

Farming Journey:
Initially, Alpana cultivated pulses and paddy crops, but income was limited as produce was sold mainly for consumption. With guidance from experts at Malda KVK and the Department of Agriculture, she shifted to blackgram seed production (variety: IPU-02-43). She received comprehensive training and support from KVK to adopt improved cultivation techniques.

Achievements:

Cultivated blackgram on 0.26 ha during Kharif and Rabi, producing 420 kg of seed.

Expenses: ₹12,220 | Income: ₹29,760 | BC Ratio: 1:2.43.

Expanded to 0.52 ha, producing 760 kg, with expenses of ₹19,180 and net income of ₹91,200.

Improved BC Ratio to 1:4.75.

Sold certified seed at ₹120/kg.

Impact:

Inspired 24 farmers to adopt blackgram seed production across 3 ha.

Produced 20 quintals of hybrid seed in two years, used on 20 ha, yielding 228 quintals.

Helped establish a seed bank, ensuring availability at the village level.

Revelation:
Blackgram seed production has proven highly profitable and sustainable, significantly improving Alpana’s livelihood and providing a model for other farmers.

She credits Malda KVK for training and guidance:
“Thanks to their guidance, I have been able to significantly enhance both my crop yield and income.”