AbstractThis study highlights the transformation of Jatipur village, Puri district, under the National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project, focusing on community-driven initiatives that promote agricultural sustainability. The implementation of advanced agricultural practices, particularly mushroom farming and vermicomposting, has significantly improved yields, economic returns, and soil fertility over three years. The NICRA Project facilitated the integration of paddy cum fish farming systems, crop diversification, and resource recycling, leading to enhanced productivity and income for the village's 72 households. Notably, paddy straw and oyster mushroom cultivation demonstrated substantial yield increases and higher benefit-cost ratios, reflecting the economic viability of these climate-resilient crops. Vermicomposting from spent mushroom substrate further supported sustainable farming practices by producing natural manure. The community's collaborative efforts have not only strengthened food security but also contributed to climate change mitigation by adopting sustainable agricultural practices. This case study serves as a model for other regions facing similar environmental challenges, emphasizing the potential for scaling up such initiatives to enhance agricultural resilience and sustainability.
Acharya et al. (Wed,) studied this question.