Revolution from Soil: Farmers’ New Flight from Traditional to Organic Farming

Farming, which has been the foundation of our culture and livelihood for centuries, is now standing at a new crossroads. This wave of change is driven by those farmers who have broken the chains of conventional farming and embraced organic methods. These are the farmers who not only aim to increase their yield but also care for the fertility of their soil, the environment, and the health of consumers.

However, the journey of shifting to organic farming is often not an easy one. When a farmer steps away from traditional practices to adopt organic farming, it is not just a technical shift but a transformation of mindset, perspective, and lifestyle. From the way seeds are sown to the choice of fertilizers and pest management, each step requires awareness, patience, and dedication.

This story is not just about choosing different fertilizers or pesticides; it’s about the courage of a farmer who chose to take a risk. This transformation opens up a new path for both crop quality and the livelihood of the farmer. When an ordinary farmer transforms his fields into an organic haven, he’s not just preserving the fertility of his land but is also scripting a new story for the future of farming.

Today, as the demand for organic products rises globally, the journey of these progressive farmers tells us that even from a small village, a significant change can begin. 

Kamlesh Kumar: A Progressive Farmer’s Journey 

Kamlesh Kumar, a progressive farmer, has given a new direction to his traditional farming. Coming from a small village in the Gorakhpur district, Kamlesh’s family has been engaged in farming for generations. He not only preserved the legacy of his ancestors but also introduced organic farming, writing a new chapter in their agricultural history. His journey is marked by hard work, patience, and the courage to embrace change.

From Conventional to Organic Farming 

Kamlesh Kumar’s family has been growing sugarcane for many years. Since his forefathers’ time, sugarcane has been the primary crop in this region. Earlier, conventional methods combined with chemical fertilizers were used, which yielded crops but impacted their quality.

When Kamlesh learned about organic farming, he realized that compared to chemical farming, organic methods would not only improve the quality of the crops but also maintain the fertility of the soil.

Balancing Cost and Profit 

Kamlesh’s annual expenditure for sugarcane cultivation is around 1.5 to 2 lakh rupees. He shared, “Sugarcane is an annual crop that requires year-round attention once sown. Proper care, timely irrigation, and fertilizers are crucial.”

After the crop is fully prepared and harvested, his profits reach up to 6-7 lakh rupees. This is a significant achievement for him, as conventional farming did not yield such high returns. Organic farming has not only increased his yield but also earned him a distinct identity in the market.

Organic Techniques: A Blend of Traditional and Modern 

Kamlesh has adopted various organic techniques. He began with vermicompost and cow dung manure. Later, he incorporated biological pesticides like Trichoderma, which improved the crop’s resistance to diseases.

He believes that organic farming not only enhances productivity but also preserves the environment and the soil’s fertility. Today, the sugarcane produced in his fields sells at higher prices in the market as people prefer organic products.

Limited Use of New Technologies 

Although Kamlesh uses several traditional and organic methods in farming, he has yet to utilize machines and advanced technologies. The main reason is his economic condition and the desire to provide employment to local laborers.

According to him, “If we use machines, the village laborers will lose their jobs. We want our farming to provide work for the village people so that they can support their families.”

Benefits of Government Schemes 

Kamlesh receives benefits from the Kisan Samman Yojana, which has provided some stability to his family’s income since 2014. This scheme helps him overcome financial difficulties during farming.

Kamlesh Kumar’s story illustrates that hard work and efforts in the right direction always yield positive results. By transforming his traditional farming practices and adopting organic methods, he has established a new identity. His journey is an inspiration for those farmers who want to improve their agricultural practices.

Kamlesh’s efforts are not only strengthening him financially but also sending a positive message to society that through organic farming, we can protect not only our crops but also our land and environment.