In Naribari, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, Aradhana Yadav, a farmer and community resource person, has become a notable advocate for biofortified crops, particularly iron pearl millet (IPM). As part of the HarvestPlus-funded project “Expanding Nutrients in Food Systems”, implemented by HarvestPlus Solutions in collaboration with UPPRO, she has transformed her farming practices while opening doors of opportunity for women and marginalized groups in her community by spreading awareness about the benefits of biofortified crops. This initiative is supported by the Government of Canada.

Aradhana Yadav owns a 0.70-acre landholding. Previously cultivating paddy, she shifted to biofortified iron pearl millet after attending awareness and training sessions program organized by HarvestPlus Solutions along with implementing partner UPPRO designed to engage women farmers in shaping agricultural solutions. These programs emphasized not only improved farming techniques but also women’s roles in advancing nutrition and community well-being—giving women like Aradhana agency in decisions that directly affect their livelihoods.

With one kilogram of IPM seed, she harvested 500 kg, retaining 50 kg to feed her family with iron-rich meals such as chapati, laddu, idli, and daliya. She sold 370 kg at a premium price, earning Rs 12,950 ($155). In contrast, regular non-biofortified millet seed yields are typically 25 percent lower, with one kg of seed producing around 400 kg of grain. Notably, she established an 80-kg seed bank, reducing dependence on external markets and creating a sustainable local supply of nutritious seeds.

With this forward-thinking approach Aradhana ensures that she has access to quality seeds and that she is prepared for future seasons, reducing dependency on external seed sources. One of the key aspects of Aradhana’s success is her ability to incorporate biofortified iron pearl millet into her family’s daily diet. She has been consuming in various forms such as chapati, laddu, idli, daliya kadhi, jalebi, barfi, halwa, and chilla, which are popular Indian cuisines and deserts.

Aradhana Yadav’s success story shows the positive impact of biofortified iron pearl millet cultivation on both an individual and community level. Her dedication to improving her own farming practices, combined with her role as a trainer and community advocate, has led to greater adoption of biofortified crops in her region. By maintaining a seed bank, utilizing the crop in her family’s diet, and training hundreds of farmers, Aradhana has contributed significantly to enhancing food security, livelihoods, and combating malnutrition. Her work continues to inspire other farmers to embrace biofortified crops for a healthier, economically empowered, and more sustainable future.

Aradhana reflects: “This program has not only improved my family’s health but also opened the door to a new business opportunity, increasing my income.”

Through her leadership, Aradhana has helped position biofortified crops as both a pathway to better nutrition and an engine for poverty reduction. Her journey demonstrates how investing in women’s capacity builds resilient communities, strengthens food systems, and ensures no one is left behind.