Pratima is a farmer in Chari, Jharkhand region of India. But, as with so many women who bear the title of “farmer” this is just one of her roles. She’s also a mother, a partner, a caregiver and so much more.
Produced by Corteva Agriscience, this video highlights Pratima’s life and the many hats she wears beyond “farmer.”
Watch her story below:
Transcript of Pratima’s Story
My background
I have been farming for over 10 years, I have 4 acres of land. I got married at a very young age and did not think it was possible for me to do such intensive labor on the farm. I used to get tired easily. I didn’t know very much about farming, which seeds to use, when to sow the seeds, which crops to plant so that I could reap the maximum benefits…and improve my life.
Learning to farm
Ours is an agricultural family, and my in-laws had always sustained themselves by farming, and so I had no alternative but to learn and continue farming. After all, no one was going to provide for us if we did not work. my little understanding about farming came from planting seedlings at my parents’ place before marriage. I learned more about farming from my in-laws. Now I farm on my own.
The benefits of modern agricultural techniques
At first, we used to grow indigenous rice crops and were dependant on rains and the local pond for irrigating the fields. Around 10 years ago a training camp was conducted in my village to learn more about hybrid rice. At this camp, I learned about the positive benefits of growing hybrid rice and applying modern agricultural techniques. I decided to try it out. I started growing hybrid rice in 2010 and it has proved to be highly beneficial for my family. Our profits doubled, we bought a two-wheeler, a tractor, as well as a pickup four-wheeler. We also constructed a permanent house, and my three children now study in good schools. My entire family is very happy.
Providing a better life for our children
I got married at the age of 13 in the year 2000. My daughter Pooja was born in 2001. I became a mother at a very young age and faced many difficulties, so I want to make sure my daughter has a better life. I treat my daughter equal to my sons and encourage her to study as much as she wants to. I'll think about her marriage only once she completes her education.
We owe our existence to farming. It has transformed our lives and has brought about tremendous positive change. It is the most important factor in my life and holds great significance for all of us.