Meet Venkatesh from Malligere, Mandya Taluk, who has been practicing organic farming for over eight to nine years. Using minimal resources, he grows a variety of crops including sugarcane, cotton, ragi, pulses, and vegetables like brinjal, okra, and radish.
“I am happy farming with what I have. I don’t borrow money or use chemical fertilizers. Everything comes from nature itself,” says Venkatesh.
His story is a perfect example of how farmers can live sustainably, produce nutritious food, and maintain financial independence.
Practicing Sustainable Organic Farming
Venkatesh’s farm uses cow dung and cow urine as natural fertilizers. This traditional approach nurtures the soil, enhances crop yield, and maintains the ecosystem without relying on chemical fertilizers.
Key Organic Practices
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Jeevamrutha and Cow-based Fertilizers: Boost soil fertility naturally.
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Crop Diversity: Sugarcane, cotton, pulses, and vegetables grown together.
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Zero Capital Farming: No loans or external inputs required.
“Nature gives everything we need if we respect it and work with it,” he adds.
Growing Your Own Vegetables: Independence and Health
Venkatesh emphasizes self-sufficiency in food production. Growing vegetables for personal consumption reduces dependency on markets and ensures fresh, chemical-free food for the family.
Benefits of Homegrown Organic Vegetables
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Better health and nutrition for the family.
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Reduced exposure to chemical residues.
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Complete control over quality and taste.
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Financial savings and independence.
Mandya Organic Society: Community Support and Market Access
Venkatesh is now part of the Mandya Organic Society, which empowers farmers to sell their produce at fair prices. The society provides training, awareness, and a platform to connect with buyers, encouraging sustainable practices across the community.
Key Highlights of the Society
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Fair pricing for organic crops
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Guidance on value addition
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Community workshops for sustainable farming
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Support for zero-debt and self-reliant agriculture
“Once farmers see that they get good prices for their crops, they gain confidence to continue organic practices,” Venkatesh explains.
Listicle: Top 5 Lessons from Venkatesh’s Organic Farming Journey
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Self-Sufficiency is Key: Grow what your family needs before selling.
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Use Natural Fertilizers: Jeevamrutha, cow dung, and cow urine nourish the soil.
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Crop Diversity Improves Resilience: Mixing cereals, pulses, and vegetables.
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Value Addition Ensures Better Prices: Clean, well-grown produce fetches premium.
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Community Support Strengthens Farmers: Cooperative societies provide market access and training.
Final Thoughts
Organic Mandya shows that sustainable farming is both rewarding and empowering. By following traditional practices, growing diverse crops, and connecting with cooperative societies, farmers can achieve financial independence, better health, and community resilience.
“If we take care of our soil and crops naturally, nature will take care of us,” concludes Venkatesh.
FAQs
Q1. What is the main focus of Organic Mandya?
A1. Organic Mandya focuses on chemical-free farming, community empowerment, and promoting nutritious, organic produce.
Q2. What are the key crops grown organically in Mandya?
A2. Farmers grow sugarcane, cotton, ragi, pulses, brinjal, okra, radish, and other vegetables.
Q3. How does the Mandya Organic Society help farmers?
A3. The society provides fair market access, training on organic practices, and guidance on value addition.
Q4. What natural fertilizers are used in Organic Mandya farms?
A4. Jeevamrutha, cow dung, and cow urine are used to enrich the soil naturally.
Q5. Can anyone start organic farming like Venkatesh?
A5. Yes, with minimal investment, proper guidance, and sustainable practices, anyone can start an organic farm.
