Definition:

• An Integrated Farming Cluster (IFC) comprises two to three adjoining intervention villages covering about 250-300 households. These households are supported with  improvement in two to three livelihood options (farm  and non-farm) with strong backward and forward  linkages. 
• The IFC strategy lays focus on landless, leased-land farmers, rain-fed farmers and introduces a more  comprehensive approach to provide an end-to-end  solution to the livelihoods of the poorest for income  enhancement. 
• The approach ensures each targeted  household has a basket of income sources to provide a regular income stream throughout the year.

Success Story:

• In Kondagaon block of Kondagaon district of  Chhattisgarh, the success of IFC cluster has shown  exemplary results in terms of economic gain for 250  households spread across four villages. 
• The four  commodities identified for intervention were Maize, Vegetables, Non-timber forest produce, and backyard  poultry. 
• The end-to-end interventions across these  commodities have resulted in an increase in income from  Rs 1,000 per month to Rs 12,000 per month per member.  

Lakhpati Didi Initiative:

• Lakhpati Didi is an initiative of the Ministry of Rural Development that strives to empower women associated with Self-Help Groups to have an annual household income exceeding Rs. 1,00,000 through adopting sustainable livelihood practices.
• A Lakhpati Didi is a Self-Help Group (SHG) member with an annual household income exceeding Rs. 1,00,000. 
• Beyond financial success, they inspire through adopting sustainable livelihood practices and achieving a decent standard of life. 
• SHGs support this journey with collective action, financial literacy, and skill development, empowering members for entrepreneurial ventures.
• Lakhpati initiative facilitates diversified livelihood activities, by ensuring convergence across all Government departments, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Private sector and Market players. The strategy includes focused planning, implementation and monitoring at all levels.
• IFCs play an important role in the functioning of this initiative.