GUNTUR, India (AP) — Natural farming methods are gaining attention and popularity in India’s southern Andhra Pradesh state, where farmers like Ratna Raju are using organic materials such as cow urine, jaggery, and other substances to protect their crops from extreme weather conditions brought on by climate change. These methods provide a barrier against cyclones, extreme heat, and heavy rainfall, making the soil more porous and enabling it to absorb water more efficiently. Andhra Pradesh has seen success with natural farming, thanks to active government support, leading to a shift of an estimated 700,000 farmers in the state towards these practices.
The benefits of natural farming were evident during Cyclone Michaung, which caused widespread damage to crops in the southeastern coast of India, except for Raju’s natural farm where the rainwater quickly seeped into the ground. This stark contrast made neighboring farmer Srikanth Kanapala consider switching to natural farming after witnessing the success of Raju’s crops. While natural farming is gaining momentum in Andhra Pradesh, farmers across India are still reliant on chemical pesticides and fertilizers, leaving them vulnerable to extreme weather events. There is a growing call for greater government investment to help farmers transition to more climate-resilient practices.
The Indian federal government has allocated funds to promote natural farming, with hopes of transitioning at least 25% of farms across the country to organic and natural techniques. However, advocates like Meerabi Chunduru, who switched to natural farming after experiencing health issues possibly linked to harmful pesticides, emphasize the need for more government and political support. Despite the potential health hazards associated with chemical pesticides, there is still skepticism among political leaders, government bureaucrats, and scientists, who favor traditional farming methods for their short-term effectiveness.
The lack of national standards, guidelines, and a viable supply chain for farmers practicing natural farming is a significant barrier to its widespread adoption. However, experts believe that natural farming is beneficial for all types of soil and weather conditions, making it a sustainable practice for farmers across India. Planting different crops year-round not only helps keep the soil healthy but also provides a steady source of income for farmers. Advocates like Chunduru hope that prioritizing natural farming will benefit both producers and consumers of crops, providing nutrient-rich food and sustaining the health of future generations.
Despite the challenges, there is a growing movement towards natural and organic farming in India, with farmers like Raju and Chunduru leading the way. With increased government support and investment, there is hope for a shift towards more sustainable agricultural practices that can mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect both farmers and consumers. The success of natural farming in Andhra Pradesh serves as a positive example for the rest of the country, highlighting the need for a transition towards more environmentally friendly and resilient farming methods.
