Odisha Government’s Mukhyamantri Krushi Udyog Yojana (MKUY) has empowered a lot of women across the state. Julie Behera from Kanjiaapal village of Dhamnagar block in Bhadrak district is one such women who stands testament to the impact of this scheme. With support from the departments of agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, and animal resources in the district, Julie has ventured into integrated farming, a practice that maximises income from available land.

With the support of her businessman husband Shashikanta, Julie successfully cultivated the Bala Sundari variety of Barakoli in the very first year. The trees are laden with fruit, showing promising signs of a good harvest. supports have been placed around the tree to protect the fruit laden branches. Since the fruits are tasty and of high quality, there is strong potential for them to sell well in nearby markets. If the produce receives a good price and steady market demand, Julie plans to expand this cultivation further.

A highly-educated woman, Julie has dedicated significant time to farming. Her land that previously had only coconut and banana plants is now being developed for commercial fruit cultivation. She has created the required infrastructure and planted red dragon fruit. Next to it, a pond has been built and she has started farming fish. There are also plans to introduce dairy farming. She has employed more than ten workers to carry out day-to-day activities.

Through her ambitious project, Julie has created a model that not only strengthens her own livelihood but also generates regular employment opportunities in the village through agriculture, becoming a role model for others to follow.