Ismail Sekh, a dedicated farmer from Chandore village in Farakka, West Bengal, had long depended on mono-cropping for his livelihood. Like many others in the region, he cultivated a single crop across his fields season after season. While this approach offered familiarity, it limited his income and left a portion of his land barren and unproductive. Returns were inconsistent, and a significant area of his land yielded almost nothing. This situation was common among many farmers in Chandore, where limited irrigation and traditional practices constrained agricultural productivity.

Intervention

When Ambuja Foundation began working in Chandore, the team introduced farmers to improved agricultural practices, including the concept of multi-cropping—growing more than one crop on the same piece of land within a single season. Recognising the challenge of water scarcity in the area, the Foundation also supported farmers by installing a Lift Irrigation (LI) system to ensure a reliable water supply to their fields.

Ismail, always eager to learn and improve, actively participated in the training sessions. He quickly understood the potential benefits and was ready to adopt new methods. Once the LI system was installed and water became available, he began cultivating scented paddy and wheat on his fields. Gradually, he adopted multi-cropping practices.

For the barren land that was not covered under the irrigation system, Ismail was encouraged to explore agroforestry. Motivated by this opportunity, he planted 350 Lombu (African Mahogany) trees across two acres of unused land. Alongside the forestry plantation, he began cultivating elephant foot yam as an intercrop—an innovative vegetable crop that offers strong seasonal returns.

Output

Sometimes all a farmer needs is the right support to unlock their potential. Recognising Ismail’s enthusiasm and commitment, Ambuja Foundation provided Lombu (African Mahogany) saplings for planting on his unused land. These trees promise significant long-term financial returns—estimated at ₹25,000–₹30,000 per tree after 15–18 years—while also contributing to environmental sustainability.

At the same time, Ismail maximised the productivity of his remaining farmland by adopting multi-cropping practices and cultivating a variety of seasonal and high-value vegetables.

Outcome

This strategic shift soon began yielding positive results. With multiple harvests and improved land utilisation, Ismail’s income steadily increased. Encouraged by his success, he began sharing his experiences at the monthly Farmers’ Club meetings, where farmers regularly discuss new ideas and practices.

Inspired by his example, farmers such as Kausar Alam, Khairul Alam, Khabir Sk, and several others in Chandore village began experimenting with agroforestry and intercropping on their own farms. One of Ismail’s most innovative ideas was to cultivate elephant foot yam between the newly planted trees, ensuring that even small patches of land remained productive while the trees matured.

Impact

The transformation of Ismail’s farm soon became a source of inspiration across the village. Farmers who once relied solely on mono-cropping began diversifying their fields, while those with unused land started exploring agroforestry practices. The results were visible—better crop yields, more efficient land use, and steadily rising farm incomes.

The environmental benefits are equally significant. Each Lombu tree is expected to grow to approximately 60 feet in height with a circumference of about 157 cm. Over a 15-year period, these plantations have the potential to sequester around 1,462 metric tonnes of carbon while contributing an estimated 820 million litres of oxygen to the atmosphere.

Ismail Sekh’s journey demonstrates how innovation, leadership, and sustainable farming practices can transform not just one farm, but an entire community.