Aarti Verma’s journey with the Good Farming–Good Food–Good Health Programme

Lasudiya Parihar, District Sehore, Madhya Pradesh – In a small village where opportunities are limited and responsibilities are high, Aarti Verma's story is a compelling example of how targeted interventions through community-driven programmes can catalyze transformation.

Aarti s life took a challenging turn following the untimely demise of her brother-in-law. Suddenly entrusted with the care of a joint family of nine, and with only two earning members, financial hardship became a daily reality.

Pathway to progress through the GFGFGH programme

Aarti s association with the Good Farming–Good Food–Good Health Programme, implemented by Solidaridad, marked the turning point in her journey. Already engaged as a Community Resource Person (CRP) under the Ajeevika Mission, she attended a community session where she encountered Pooja Mewada, a Nutrition Para-worker under the programme.

Inspired by the initiative’s focus on nutrition, regenerative agriculture, and women empowerment, Aarti joined the programme as a Nutri Sakhi (Nutrition friend). Her role was crucial: facilitating behavioural change in rural households through awareness on dietary diversity, promoting nutrition gardens, and encouraging adoption of sustainable farming practices.

Impact on community and self

With support from the programme, Aarti not only built her knowledge and communication skills but also became a respected voice in her community. Her engagement led to widespread awareness of the importance of nutritious food, locally available crops, and low-cost kitchen gardens. Through her outreach, households began incorporating healthier food choices, and women were empowered to cultivate their own nutrition gardens.

Recognizing her leadership potential, Aarti was further appointed as a Bank Sakhi (Banking friend) under the Livelihood Mission, where she began facilitating women’s access to financial services, helping them secure loans and start small businesses. Her dual role empowered her with a stable income while also positioning her as a change agent within her village.

Sustaining change through strategic partnerships

The Good Farming–Good Food–Good Health Programme s strategic model—integrating nutrition, agriculture, and women’s empowerment—enabled Aarti to transition from a beneficiary to a leader. The programme not only provided her with economic opportunities but also equipped her to multiply impact by mentoring others.

Today, Aarti is at the forefront of local development efforts. Her success is an example on how the programme’s grassroots approach is building capacities and resilience among rural women, thereby developing long-term community transformation.

The Good Farming–Good Food–Good Health Programme gave me direction when I needed it most. It gave me a purpose, financial independence, and the ability to bring about real change in my community. Every session I conducted helped someone—and in doing so, helped me grow, shares Aarti Verma.