The Government of Kerala has launched the NAWO-DHAN initiative to reactivate fallow agricultural land and boost farm productivity. The scheme seeks to link landowners with farmers and investors, enabling the cultivation of unused land without altering ownership rights.
Under NAWO-DHAN, landowners with idle plots can lease their land to skilled farmers or investors who are willing to invest in cultivation. The programme aims to convert up to 30 percent of Kerala’s currently fallow land back into productive agriculture, enhancing food production and supporting rural livelihoods.
State agriculture officials highlighted that the scheme focuses on sustainable land use, climate-smart farming practices, and market-oriented crop production. Farmers participating in the programme will receive technical assistance, access to credit, and guidance on crop selection based on soil and climatic conditions.
The government emphasized that NAWO-DHAN is designed to strengthen farm-based employment opportunities, optimize land resources, and encourage collaborative approaches between landowners and cultivators. By activating idle land, the initiative also aims to improve local food security and stimulate rural economic growth.
Officials noted that similar models in other regions have successfully increased land productivity while ensuring social and economic benefits for smallholders and investors alike. Kerala expects that with active participation from landowners and farmers, NAWO-DHAN will significantly reduce the area of uncultivated farmland and promote sustainable agriculture across the state.
By
