Mounesh Vishwakarma Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal Bantwal, Aug 5: In a powerful display of rural solidarity and women-led initiative, members of the Ashirwad Sanjeevini Self-Help Group (SHG) under Golthamajalu gram panchayat stepped up to transplant paddy in an uncultivated field, setting an inspiring example of community empowerment and grassroots leadership. The farmland, located in Balkatta within the Golthamajalu GP limits, belongs to the family of Koggu Poojary, who traditionally engage in paddy farming every year. However, this season, Harish Balkatta, one of the landowners, could not take up cultivation due to commitments related to new house construction. Upon learning of this, the Ashirwad Sanjeevini SHG members assured Harish that they would take on the responsibility themselves. True to their word, the group members successfully carried out paddy transplantation across 40 cents of land on Tuesday, earning widespread appreciation and setting a benchmark for others. “If you're unable to farm this season, we’ll do it for you,” the women had confidently told the farmer — and they delivered. Initiative backed by government schemes The initiative was supported under several flagship rural development schemes including the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana, National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), Sanjeevini – Karnataka State Rural Livelihood Promotion Society, along with support from the Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat, Bantwal Taluk Panchayat, Department of Agriculture, and the Golthamajalu gram panchayat. The event was formally launched under the leadership of the Ashirwad SHG. Bantwal Taluk Panchayat executive officer Sachin Kumar inaugurated the activity in a traditional manner by placing rice into a ceremonial pot (kalasha). Speaking at the event, he emphasised the need to revitalise agriculture: “Solely relying on industry cannot ensure livelihoods. Agriculture remains the backbone of our survival. Although mechanised farming is challenging due to fragmented landholdings in our district, it's encouraging to see today’s youth taking renewed interest in paddy farming.” Top officials take to the fields After the ceremonial opening, the real action began in the muddy fields. Officials from various departments — including the taluk panchayat, Agriculture Department, local elected representatives, Krishi Sakhis (agriculture volunteers), Pashu Sakhis (animal husbandry volunteers), and SHG members — all joined hands to carry out the transplantation work until noon. For many, including EO Sachin Kumar, it was a first-time experience. “This is my first time planting paddy, and it was a deeply joyful and memorable experience,” he said with a smile. Several women who had never participated in farming before also took part enthusiastically, embracing the hard work and the spirit of collaboration. Local farmers lend guidance and support The effort was actively supported and guided by experienced local farmers including Koggu Poojary, Karunakar Balkatta, Narayan Balkatta, Harish Balkatta, and Lakshman Balkatta, who shared their agricultural expertise with the volunteers. Strong participation and community engagement The programme witnessed the participation of several key officials and community leaders. Usha, president of Ashirwad SHG, was present alongside agriculture officer Nandan Shenoy and Vijay Shankar Alva, assistant director of Bantwal taluk panchayat. Sudha, the taluk programme manager for NRLM, also attended. Volunteers and coordinators including Pradeep Kamath, Sanghavi, Deekshita, Preethika, and Harshita actively contributed to the event. From the MKPS team, Navya Holla and Gunavathi were in attendance. The programme began with a welcome address by Kusuma, cluster supervisor, followed by a prayer led by Gayathri. Bhavani delivered the vote of thanks, while Pushpavati, a Krishi Sakhi, compered the event. A grateful farmer's words Harish Balkatta, the landowner, was overwhelmed by the gesture “I couldn’t cultivate this season due to ongoing house construction. The fact that the Sanjeevini SHG members stepped in and completed the transplantation on my behalf is a gesture I will never forget. Their support means a great deal to me and my family.”
