NHAI Arogya Van Context: NHAI has taken the initiative to develop ‘Arogya Van’, the thematic medicinal tree plantations on vacant land parcels along the National Highways. The initiative aims to enrich biodiversity along the National Highways by introducing medicinal tree species that support pollinators, birds and microfauna, thereby strengthening ecosystem resilience. Objectives Enhance soil and ecosystem health Support pollinators, birds, and microfauna Promote awareness of medicinal plants Strengthen climate resilience Tree Species Around 36 medicinal plants selected Examples: Neem, Amla, Jamun, Imli, Lemon, Gular, Maulsari Chosen based on local climate suitability Significance Promotes traditional medicine like Ayurveda Conserves indigenous medicinal flora Creates green corridors along highways Soil Sakhis Initiative Context: The “Soil Sakhis” programme in the drought-affected regions of western Maharashtra is uplifting women from marginalised communities while also enhancing soil quality and boosting farm productivity. Launched (2023): By Mann Deshi Foundation under Agriculture & Climate Action Programme Coverage Area: Drought-prone districts of Maharashtra (Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Kolhapur, Pune) Concept: Train rural women as Soil Sakhis to test soil and guide farmers Role of Soil Sakhis Collect soil samples Get lab testing done Provide scientific soil health insights to farmers Income ₹8,000–₹10,000/month + petrol allowance Soil test cost: ₹400–₹900 Objectives Improve soil health & crop yield Promote climate-resilient farming Provide scientific knowledge access to farmers Significance Empowers women economically Supports sustainable agriculture Reduces impact of drought on farming Womaniya Context: The 'Womaniya' initiative facilitates women entrepreneurs and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to sell their products directly to government buyers through the e-marketplace platform ('GeM'). It covers the procurement of specific product categories such as handicrafts, handlooms, jute, coir products, home décor items, and office furniture. About the Womaniya Initiative It was launched in 2019 on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It aims…
