The Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCA to SCSP) is a key initiative by the Government of India aimed at reducing socio-economic disparities among Scheduled Castes (SCs). Originating from policies introduced in the Fifth and Sixth Five Year Plans, it supports income generation, skill development, and infrastructure enhancement for SCs living below the poverty line. Implemented through state governments and union territories, the scheme targets SC populations through various programs, including agricultural initiatives, skill training, and village infrastructure development. It emphasizes the upliftment of SC women and disabled persons, ensuring inclusive economic growth and empowerment within SC communities nationwide.

Under this scheme, the Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR), Varanasi recently distributed paddy and kharif vegetable seeds to 147 farmers in Jalalpur village. This initiative, aimed at reducing socio-economic disparities among Scheduled Castes (SCs), promoting agricultural development and enhancing livelihoods.

Dr. Nagendra Rai, Director of IIVR, highlighted the scheme's transformative impact during the distribution event in Jalalpur. He emphasized the importance of SCSP in providing essential resources like seeds and technical knowledge to farmers, which are crucial for boosting agricultural productivity and income. Dr. Govind Pal, Program Coordinator and Principal Scientist, along with other experts including Dr. Jagesh Kumar Tiwari and Dr. Pradeep Karmakar, underscored the significance of ongoing engagement with research institutions like IIVR to adopt modern farming practices.

Notably, 54 women farmers were also trained in nursery and vegetable farming techniques, enhancing their capacity to leverage SCSP resources effectively in a training program organized by IIVR recently. In the program, Dr. Rai urged the women farmers to capitalize on the available seeds and technology to increase their agricultural yields and economic independence. The event showcased advancements in high-tech nurseries for chili crops demonstrated by Dr. Indivar Prasad, and new varieties of tomatoes and baby corn discussed by Dr. Suresh Reddy and other scientists like Dr. Swati Sharma and Dr. Anurag Chaurasiya also participated in the program.

The SCSP scheme's holistic approach not only provides seeds and fertilizers but also offers continuous technical support, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices. This flexibility allows states and union territories to tailor programs to local agricultural needs, thereby addressing diverse challenges effectively.

Looking ahead, the broader impact of the SCSP scheme includes multiple training sessions and the distribution of agricultural inputs, benefiting a significant number of farmers. In 2019 alone, the scheme facilitated 16 training sessions and supported over 1,135 farmers across approximately 250 hectares of land. Such initiatives are crucial for promoting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life in rural SC communities.

As the SCSP scheme expands its reach, it promises to further transform the agricultural landscape for SC farmers, fostering inclusive development and bridging economic disparities effectively. The recent seed distribution event in Jalalpur village serves as a testament to the government's commitment to empowering marginalized farmers and ensuring sustainable agricultural development through targeted interventions under the SCSP scheme.

Source: Krishi Jagran