Bageshwar: Migration has long been a major challenge in the mountainous regions of Uttarakhand, but Bageshwar district is now changing this perception by emerging as a new example of “reverse migration.” With the help of modern agriculture, government schemes, and local efforts, youth and farmers are returning to their villages and creating new self-employment opportunities.
Through the efforts of District Magistrate Akanksha Konde and coordination among the Agriculture, Horticulture, and Fisheries Departments, farmers in the district are being provided with modern technologies, training, and polyhouses and agricultural equipment with subsidies ranging from 80 to 90 percent. The impact of these efforts is now clearly visible on the ground.
Manoj Koranga, a young farmer from Saligaon, has adopted an integrated farming system and established three polyhouses, three fish ponds, and a food processing unit. Through this, he is earning an annual income of ₹3 to ₹4 lakh and also generating employment at the local level.
In Garud block, Chandrashekhar Pandey is writing a new success story through organic and medicinal farming. Through his brand “Him Natural,” he markets products like tulsi, lemongrass, ashwagandha, and rosemary, earning an annual income of ₹7 to ₹8 lakh.
Bageshwar is also setting new examples in women empowerment. Hansi Shah from Manyuda village has adopted scientific farming and increased her income through the production of coarse grains and vegetables, while also connecting more than 40 women to self-employment.
Kiwi production in the district has also increased rapidly. In a few years, the area under kiwi cultivation has expanded from 5–8 hectares to 80 hectares. Production and farmers’ income have increased multiple times. Meanwhile, the cultivation of herbs like “Kutki” is also economically empowering women.
Modern agriculture, organic production, and effective implementation of government schemes in Bageshwar have shown a way to turn migration into opportunity. This model is not only strengthening the vision of a self-reliant Uttarakhand but also writing a new story of returning hope and transformation in the hills.
