Pilot yields strong financial results, with Rs 1,60,000 input cost generating nearly Rs 5,90,000 in total income across 6.4 acres

In a targeted push toward rural income diversification and sustainable agriculture, Ambuja Foundation and HDFC Bank have partnered to introduce a floriculture-based livelihood model across 15 villages in rural Varanasi under the Holistic Rural Development Program (HRDP).

The initiative focuses on enabling smallholder farmers to transition toward high-value, low-land-use agricultural practices, particularly floriculture, in response to limited landholdings and rising demand for flowers in Varanasi’s religious and cultural economy.

Under the programme, 32 farmers were trained in organic cultivation techniques and crop protection methods, alongside the distribution of flowering plant varieties such as marigold, rose, and jasmine. The intervention also introduced vermi-composting units to support organic manure production, improve soil health, and reduce dependence on chemical inputs.

Covering 6.4 acres across 15 villages, the project has already demonstrated strong financial viability. With an input cost of approximately Rs 1,60,000, participating farmers generated nearly Rs 5,90,000 in total income—underscoring the profitability of floriculture as a scalable rural livelihood option.

Beyond income enhancement, the model emphasizes sustainable farming practices, early harvest cycles, and improved market access, collectively contributing to greater economic stability for participating households.

The initiative is further supported through on-site expert guidance and continuous monitoring to ensure adoption of environmentally responsible agricultural practices and improved productivity outcomes.

Commenting on the programme, Pearl Tiwari, CEO of Ambuja Foundation, said the partnership reflects a long-term commitment to strengthening rural livelihoods through sustainable and efficient farming systems under the HRDP framework, aimed at driving inclusive economic growth across rural India.