KALIA: Enabling Landless Farmers Live in Prosperity and Dignity

Bhubaneswar: Malati Melaka might seem like just another landless farmer but her determination to excel has made her the backbone of her family. Coming from a very poor family of wage labourers in Chancheraguda Panchayat , Bissam Cuttack Block of Rayagada, Melaka had to struggle to make ends meet. However, poverty could not prevent her from aiming big for her 20 year old daughter who goes to College now.

The Agriculture worker of her panchayat knew about her woes and enrolled her in KALIA scheme in 2019. The first installment of Rs 5000 brought immense happiness. In addition to that, she received training in mushroom cultivation by ATMA and Odisha Livelihood Mission. The lady is among ones who utilises every opportunity bestowed on her, she strengthened her mushroom business after receiving the second installment of KALIA. When asked about her profit margin, she says, “I make packets of 250 grams and sell it in the local market for 50 rupees each”. Her 20 beds of mushroom help her meet the basic needs of her family and aid the education of her daughter.

As an active member of Ma Santoshi SHG in Chancheraguda, her activities were even facilitated by Living Farms NGO, active in that area. Her group has received a revolving fund of 10,000 from ATMA for undertaking livelihood activities. Recently, she has diversified her business and is preparing “Khalli” from leaves that brings around 2000 rupees home each month.

Melaka thanked Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for injecting a renewed sense of confidence and dignity through KALIA assistance to landless farmers like her. She doesn’t want to lose momentum of her drive to succeed. She hopes to have her own outlet one day, selling the products that she makes, managed by her SHG members.

The story of Melaka can be a guiding light to many other men, women, farmers , entrepreneurs to make the best use of the available opportunities and succeed in life.