Meetings and Training Programs Held Creating Awareness On Organic Farming
As part of Bala Vikasa’s organic farming program activities, the team conducted seasonal training programs, leadership training programs and exposure visits to enable organic farmers in following the best practices in organic farming during crop season, pest management, harvest management and methods to identify potential buyers for organic produce. Over 400 small and marginal organic farmers participated in these training programs from 15 villages.
Sharing his experience on practicing organic farming methods suggested at these training programs, P Sudhakar Reddy of Rangannagudem said we experienced excessive rainfall this year, and the paddy crop was affected with brown planthopper. “Many of my fellow farmers resorted to using chemical fertilizers but I followed the suggestions and tips I got from Bala Vikasa’s Training programs and I was successful unlike other farmers,” added Sudhakar Reddy. He further expressed his gratitude to Bala Vikasa for conducting the seasonal training program.
The organic farmers' group leaders' meeting was held on creating awareness to the leaders on methods to monitor soil health, soil conservation and pest management through organic preparations. They were also given training in the process of organic produce market identification and organic certification process. A training program on the maintenance of farm ponds and alternate income generation through farm ponds was also conducted for 135 organic farmers who are also practicing fish farming in farm ponds.
About 28 small and marginal organic farmers participated in an Exposure Visit held as part of Bala Vikasa’s organic farming awareness program. The farmers visited Nagaratnam Naidu’s farm in Telangana who practices multiple crop cultivation in organic farming. The farmers were introduced to different farming techniques, and how they can make the best of what they have and make profits through organic farming.
Furthermore, Organic Farming team assisted about 1000 farmers in the complex process of certification of 35 villages from four districts, especially with the paperwork. As of now, 700 organic farmers are selling their produce at a 10% higher price in various online platforms and offline markets.
All the training programs of Bala Vikasa including the exposure visit gave a complete understanding of organic farming and it inspired me to take up organic farming. It not only gives me the hope of gaining profits through my produce but helps in Water and Environment Conservation,” said V Ilaiah Palamkula Village.
