Deadline: 29-Dec-2025
UNICEF has launched a youth-focused initiative in Uttar Pradesh to develop climate-smart agri-entrepreneurs. The program trains 150 young people in sustainable farming, modern cultivation techniques, and entrepreneurial skills, aiming to boost rural incomes by 30–40% while strengthening community resilience to climate change.
Introduction
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has introduced a groundbreaking initiative in Uttar Pradesh to transform rural livelihoods. The program equips young people with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to become climate-smart agri-entrepreneurs, integrating sustainable agriculture practices with market-oriented strategies.
Program Objectives
The initiative focuses on three core goals: 1. Develop Youth Leadership – Empower young people to lead climate-resilient agricultural initiatives in their communities. 2. Enhance Agricultural Productivity – Introduce modern farming methods and high-value crops to increase income and efficiency. 3. Promote Sustainability – Strengthen rural economies and community resilience against climate variability. By achieving these objectives, UNICEF aims to establish a scalable and replicable model for youth-led agricultural innovation in the state.
Key Features of the Initiative
Climate-Smart Agriculture Training
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Focus on sustainable farming practices tailored to local climatic conditions.
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Training in protected cultivation techniques, including greenhouses and polyhouses.
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Promotion of high-value crop production for improved market competitiveness.
Technical and Vocational Education
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Access to technical expertise and hands-on vocational training.
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Development of entrepreneurial and leadership competencies.
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Support for market access, enabling young farmers to sell produce effectively.
Expected Outcomes
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150 youth trained as first-generation agri-entrepreneurs.
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30–40% increase in farm incomes through adoption of modern techniques.
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Strengthened community-based climate resilience and awareness.
Who is Eligible?
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Young individuals from rural areas of Uttar Pradesh.
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Interested in agriculture, entrepreneurship, and climate-smart practices.
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Committed to community development and adoption of innovative farming techniques.
Why It Matters
Climate change poses increasing risks to agriculture in Uttar Pradesh, including erratic rainfall, soil degradation, and crop losses. By focusing on youth empowerment and climate-smart practices, the initiative builds resilient farming communities, creates sustainable income streams for young entrepreneurs, and supports long-term food security and rural development.
How the Program Works
Step 1: Recruitment and Selection
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UNICEF identifies 150 motivated youth candidates.
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Preference is given to individuals demonstrating interest in sustainable agriculture and community leadership.
Step 2: Training and Capacity Building
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Participants receive hands-on technical training in modern cultivation methods.
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Entrepreneurship workshops teach business planning, marketing, and finance management.
Step 3: Implementation and Mentorship
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Trainees apply techniques on pilot farms or community plots.
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Ongoing mentorship and technical support ensures adoption of best practices.
Step 4: Market Integration
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Support in connecting with local markets for high-value crops.
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Guidance on value addition and sales strategies to boost income.
Tips and Common Mistakes
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Start small: Pilot small plots before scaling up operations.
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Understand local markets: Ensure crop choices match demand.
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Regular monitoring: Track crop health and adjust practices for climate variations.
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Avoid over-reliance on a single crop: Diversify to reduce risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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How long is the training program? The program spans several months, combining classroom instruction with practical farm work.
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Are there costs involved for participants? No, UNICEF provides training, resources, and technical support free of charge.
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What types of crops are included in the program? Focus is on high-value and climate-resilient crops suited to local conditions.
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Is mentorship provided after training? Yes, participants receive ongoing mentorship to implement their farming initiatives successfully.
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Can this model be replicated in other states? Yes, UNICEF aims to create a scalable model that can be integrated into broader livelihood programs across India.
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Who can I contact for more information? Inquiries can be directed to UNICEF Uttar Pradesh offices or their official website.
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Are there opportunities for financial support? The program may guide participants toward grants, loans, or market-based financing options for scaling their businesses.
Conclusion
UNICEF’s youth-focused climate-smart agriculture initiative in Uttar Pradesh combines skill development, technical support, and market integration to create sustainable livelihoods. By training 150 young agri-entrepreneurs, the program strengthens rural economies, empowers youth, and contributes to long-term climate-resilient agriculture. This initiative sets a replicable model for sustainable development, demonstrating how targeted youth engagement can transform rural communities.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.