Valsad (Gujarat) [India], June 29 (ANI): Gujarat's Mandap Scheme is significantly transforming vegetable cultivation in the tribal belt of Valsad district by promoting modern trellis-based farming, improving productivity, enhancing crop quality and ensuring year-round income for farmers.
Under the initiative, around 20,000 farmers in Dharampur Taluka and adjoining areas are engaged in the cultivation of vine vegetables such as bitter gourd, bottle gourd, ivy gourd (tindora) and parwal using the Mandap system. The structure supports vertical growth of crops, enabling better crop management, reduced wastage and higher yields.
Farmers in the region said government assistance under the scheme has played a crucial role in encouraging them to adopt the modern technique.
"We receive a subsidy from the Horticulture Department. Farmers get around Rs 39,000 to Rs 40,000 per hectare, while larger farms receive assistance of up to about Rs 1.2 lakh. This support has provided significant relief and encouraged more farmers to take up the scheme," said farmer Vijaybhai Dalvi.
Another farmer, Gopalbhai Kunwar, who cultivates tindora and parwal using the Mandap system, said the initiative has improved his livelihood.
"Setting up the Mandap costs around Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000. After meeting expenses, I earn an annual income of around Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 2 lakh, which helps support my family. We also receive assistance from the Gujarat government's Horticulture Department," he said.
Officials said the improved quality of vegetables under the Mandap system has expanded market access for farmers, with traders now directly purchasing produce from farms and supplying it to wholesale markets in Mumbai. The system has also extended the crop cycle, allowing farmers to harvest for a longer period and ensuring a more stable income throughout the year.
Farmer Yashwantbhai Walgad, who has been practising Mandap farming for the past five years, said the initiative has strengthened his household income.
"The income from this farming helps run my household. Along with vegetable cultivation, I also rear dairy animals. The government provides support for setting up the Mandap," he said.
Officials further noted that the scheme has generated rural employment, encouraged the adoption of modern horticulture practices among tribal farmers and strengthened the rural economy by making vegetable cultivation more profitable and sustainable in the region. (ANI)
