Rediscovering Sustainable Farming: How Urban Residents Are Learning Organic Agriculture
Introduction
In the first episode of our Organic Mandya journey, we posed a question: can city residents truly embrace village life and learn to farm organically? To answer this, we had to find the perfect land that could support traditional farming methods, yet adapt to modern organic techniques.
Our mission is simple: reconnect urban residents with agriculture, teach them sustainable practices, and revive the self-sufficient producer-consumer model that our ancestors followed.
Finding the Perfect Land for Organic Farming
To start the project, we searched extensively for suitable dry lands in Maddur, Kunnigal, Ramanagara, and Channapatna. Finally, we found ideal land in Kanakapura, untouched for 20–30 years and rich in red soil-a perfect choice for cultivating 40–50 types of horticultural crops, including fruits and leafy greens.
“Red and black soils are the most suitable for organic horticulture. They hold nutrients well and support diverse crops without heavy chemical intervention,” says Mr. Madhu Chandan, Organic Mandya.
Kanakapura lies along the Arkavathi River, providing adequate rainfall despite the land being hard and rough. Our plot in Bannimukkodlu, 25 km from Kanakapura, is divided into:
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1.5 acres for cow fodder, water tanks, fish ponds, and a small house
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1.5 acres for our organic farming model
The Team: From IT Professionals to Aspiring Farmers
We selected 14 city residents, primarily from IT backgrounds, most with little or no farming experience. Some had minor agricultural exposure through family, but for many, this was their first hands-on farming experience.
Before starting, we performed a small pooja called “MUNI”, not dedicated to any deity, but designed to protect us from snakes and seek blessings from nature-wind, rain, and soil.
“We consider Prakruthi-our natural elements-as divine. Sustainable farming starts with respecting these forces,” says a trainee from Mandya.
Why Red Soil and Dry Land Farming Matter
Traditional dry land farming teaches resilience:
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No irrigation, no dams: Farming depends on rainfall
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Wildlife challenges: Elephants and other animals can affect crops
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Soil fertility: Overuse of chemical fertilizers damages long-term productivity
We rely on natural farming practices, compost, and organic manure like “Jeevamrutha” to enrich the soil.
“The more you protect the soil, the more it protects you in return,” emphasizes Madhu Sir.
Reconnecting with the Producer-Consumer Model
Modern Indian agriculture often separates producers from consumers. Farmers grow crops for the market rather than for personal sustenance, losing the self-sufficiency model:
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Historically, families produced 90% of what they consumed-vegetables, greens, milk, ghee, and eggs.
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Today, villagers primarily produce for commercial purposes, like mulberry for silk, ignoring their own food security.
At Organic Mandya, the goal is to restore sustainable living, where urbanites and farmers alike produce what they consume, bridging the gap between food production and consumption.
“Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it means producing everything you need while respecting natural resources,” Madhu Sir notes.
What Trainees Are Learning
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Soil selection, preparation, and fertility management
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Dry land cultivation and horticultural crop planning
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Organic manure and natural pest management
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Hands-on planting, harvesting, and farm management
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Connecting modern urban lifestyles with traditional agriculture
Listicle: Top Takeaways from Episode 1 at Organic Mandya
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Red Soil is Key: Ideal for vegetables and leafy greens.
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Respect Nature: Wind, rain, and soil are your greatest allies.
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Producer-Consumer Balance: Grow what you consume for sustainability.
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Hands-On Experience: IT professionals can adapt quickly with proper guidance.
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Organic Practices Over Chemicals: Use “Jeevamrutha” and compost for long-term soil fertility.
Final Thoughts
Organic Mandya isn’t just a farm-it’s a classroom for sustainable living. Urban residents can reconnect with their roots, learn traditional farming, and integrate modern organic techniques.
“Our ancestors understood sustainability inherently. Today, we need to relearn it and apply it intelligently for the future of food and the planet,” concludes Madhu Chandan.
