Flourishing Fields: Reviving Agriculture and Hope in Gokhuldih Village

12 February 2025, Deoghar: In the heart of Gokhuldih village, Deoghar Sadar block, the lives of farmers Satya Narayan Raut and Jyoti Devi have been transformed through the SBI Gram Saksham project, implemented by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) in collaboration with SBI Foundation.

For years, the couple struggled to sustain their 1.30-acre rain-fed farm, facing water scarcity and an unreliable well that hindered their ability to cultivate crops effectively. Due to insufficient Kharif yield, they had to rely on loans and daily wage labor in Deoghar township for survival.

In 2023, under the SBI Gram Saksham initiative, their well was identified for renovation, significantly enhancing its water retention capacity. With the improved water availability, they were able to irrigate one acre of land, ensuring better farming conditions.

Furthermore, Satya Narayan and Jyoti, along with five other farmers, received an electric motor pump under the project, facilitating efficient irrigation. As a result, they could cultivate Kharif, Rabi, and Zaid crops, ensuring food security throughout the year.

The impact has been profound. The family managed to save ₹30,000, reducing their dependency on daily wage labor. Expressing their gratitude, Satya Narayan shared, “Earlier, there was less water in my well, but after the repair, there is enough water. This has changed our lives.”

The SBI Gram Saksham project, through targeted agricultural interventions, is enabling sustainable farming practices and improving the livelihoods of small farmers across rural Jharkhand. The initiative by SBI Foundation and NBJK continues to empower farmers, fostering self-reliance and economic stability.