Beyond wheat, paddy: How a farmer’s seed bank and
zero-budget natural farming boost earnings and preserve biodiversity
Amrit Singh Chahal, a young farmer in Punjab's Barnala district who has adopted zero-budget natural farming on 8 acres of his 15-acre farm. Chahal has built a seed bank with over 150 types of rare traditional seed varieties, including crops like pulses, oilseeds, fruits, and vegetables. He uses natural methods to manage pests without chemicals, understanding the relationship between insects and plants. Chahal's farming strategy is driven by weather conditions and market demand, allowing him to adjust crop areas accordingly. He also grows rare traditional wheat and Basmati varieties that fetch higher prices. Chahal's wife and mother play key roles in seed preservation, collecting and drying seeds from their home consumption. Chahal is passionate about training fellow farmers and highlighting innovative natural farming practices.
|
🌿 Transforming Agriculture:
Lakshmi Prasanna's Success with Natural FarmingIn Veerapanenigudem village, Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, Battula Hema Satya Venkata Lakshmi Prasanna revitalized her failing mango orchard by adopting Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing (PMDS), a natural farming technique promoted by Rythu Sadhikara Samstha (RySS). Starting in 2020, she sowed 12 kg of Navadhanya (nine traditional grains) per acre before the monsoon, gradually increasing to 30 varieties. Utilizing bio-stimulants like Ghana Jeevamrutham and botanical extracts such as Agnastram and Panchagavya, she enhanced soil fertility and moisture retention. Her income grew from ₹1.2 lakh in 2020 to ₹10 lakh in 2025. Beyond mangoes, she cultivated vegetables, leafy greens, and marigold flowers, earning an additional ₹10,000 monthly. Her success has made her a community resource person with RySS, guiding fellow farmers towards sustainable practices. Lakshmi Prasanna's journey exemplifies the potential of natural farming to transform livelihoods and promote sustainable agriculture. |
|