TEACHING ORGANIC WAY OF FARMING TO THE TRIBAL
The growing influence of Organic farming is encouraging a number of farmers to opt for organic. Additionally, even the government is taking much-needed steps I ensuring the outbreak of organic farming on a larger scale. One such similar effort was done by the department of Horticulture. With an aim of encouraging tribal to take up organic farming, a one-day long training in eco-friendly methods of farming was organized in Bhadradri-Kothagudem. This initiation was witnessed by around 50 farmers who sow vegetables from in the area surrounding the strict. The MLA of Kothagudem also distributed 50 vermicomposting beds to the participants under the mission of integrated development of Horticulture. The participants were further taught about eco-friendly ways of farming, recycling of farming waste, drip irrigation and several other technologies that are best suited for water conservation. There was also an interactive session wherein the MLA made it a point to highlight the benefits of indulging into Organic farming and how is it leading to increasing in output and reduction in the cost.
HOW IS ORGANIC FARMING BENEFICIAL TO SMALL SCALE FARMERS? If you still wonder how organic farming is going to benefit the small-scale farmers here is how it is –
1. High premium profit – Naturally organic food is priced higher than the conventionally grown. The rate of difference is around 20-30%. Hence, growing organic definitely enhances the profit margin of the farmer. 2. Fewer debts – Worldwide number of farmers commit suicide under the burden of debts. The vicious cycle of loan that they get trapped into is due to the costly fertilisers and chemicals that they need to buy. On the contrary, organic farming requires no such pesticides and chemicals hence the input is less which gradually reduces the debt. 3. The abundance of traditional knowledge – Most of the farmers are well versed with the traditional methods of farming. However, the conventional methods disallow them to practice this. Organic farming enables them to incorporate their traditional knowledge and gain better outcomes. 4. Less investment – Organic farming requires less investment on the part of the farmer. It requires no expensive chemicals and pesticides. Hence the investment is definitely low when it comes to organic farming comparatively. One such initiation is The Organic Garden, an online store that allows you to place online orders for organic fruits, vegetables and grocery items. Under certified products the company manages to function in Mumbai and deliver in PAN India. The quality measures are stringent which ensures that only apex quality organic products are delivered to the doorstep.