The Critical Conditions in the Region of Bundelkhand
Agriculture in Bundelkhand is vastly rain-dependent, diverse, complex, under-invested, risky and vulnerable. In addition, extreme weather conditions, like droughts, short-term rain and flooding in fields add to the uncertainties and seasonal migrations.
The scarcity of water in the semi-arid region, with poor soil and low productivity further aggravates the problem of food security. With a population of approximately 21 million in Bundelkhand, 82.32 per cent is rural and more than one third of the households in these areas are considered to be Below the Poverty Line (BPL).
The poverty situation in the region has also become extremely critical in the recent years. This is because of lack of employment and lack of opportunities. The insecurity of livelihoods and lack of supportive governance have led to forced large-scale migration of the local population. Further, climatic uncertainties, leading to extended and frequent spells of drought and drastically reduced agricultural yields, have also aggravated the problem.
Another subject that is considered a big issue at DA is the literacy-rate, which we believe is crucial to development and empowerment. It remains as low as 55.73 per cent. With the female literacy rate below the regional average at 40.99 per cent, DA makes it a high priority to change this around.
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