Salikram Verma, a resident of Sitapur district of Uttar Pradesh, has created a new identity in the field of organic farming. His journey is not just that of a farmer, but of an innovator who not only made his field fertile, but also inspired other farmers through his innovations. Salikram believes that organic farming is not just a method of farming, but a way of life. This article presents in detail the story of his struggle, hard work and achievements.
Facing challenges in the beginning
Salikram left traditional farming and adopted the path of organic farming. But this journey was not easy in the beginning. He told:
“In the beginning, low production and pest infestation in the fields were the biggest problems. It took time to adopt measures like organic manure and cow urine, but I did not give up. Gradually the soil of the field improved and results started showing.”
The use of chemicals in his farming is completely stopped. Despite this, continuity in production and improvement in soil fertility is a big achievement.
Innovations in organic farming
Salikram’s innovations took his farming to new heights. His main innovations include:
1. Explaining the disadvantages of raw dung
Salikram always advises farmers not to put raw dung in the fields. He says:
“Raw dung attracts termites and insects in the fields, which damages the roots of the crop. Instead, dung should be used by converting it into vermicompost.”
2. Mulching and use of straw
Salikram started using straw as mulching instead of burning it. This not only maintains the moisture of the fields, but also controls weeds. He puts the remaining straw into vermicompost, which prepares manure.
3. Planting of Matier Grass
He planted Matier grass on the ridges of the fields, which gave two major benefits:
• The soil from the fields stopped flowing during the rainy season
• Fodder is available for cows all the time.
4. Use of decomposer
Salikram adopted the method of converting fallen leaves and leftover plants in the field into manure with the help of decomposer. This increased the fertility of his field and improved soil health.
Inspiration for farmers
Salikram not only practices organic farming himself, but also inspires other farmers to do the same. He regularly advises farmers not to use chemical pesticides in their fields. He suggests that spraying cow urine and panchgavya is an effective way to control pests in the fields. Along with this, he encourages farmers to avoid burning stubble and adopt the process of making organic manure. His workshops inspire farmers towards better techniques and eco-friendly farming.
Salikram says:
“I have seen that farmers are becoming aware by sharing my farming experiences. They are now avoiding stubble burning and are moving towards the use of organic manure.”
Benefits of government schemes
Salikram has not yet availed the benefits of any government scheme. However, he makes farmers aware of government schemes and encourages them to take maximum advantage of these schemes. He believes that the government should take more steps to promote organic farming. Also, he suggests that special subsidies and training programs should be implemented for organic farmers, so that they can further improve their efforts.
Honors and achievements
Salikram’s innovations and hard work have been appreciated on many platforms. He has received many awards under the Aatma Yojana and at the district level. He believes that these honors give him more motivation and he wants to take his efforts further. Due to these achievements, he has now become an inspiration in his village and nearby areas. His efforts have not only improved his farming but have also made other farmers aware.
Future plans
Salikram dreams of his farm becoming a model organic farm where other farmers can come and learn. He plans to incorporate new techniques in organic farming and market his produce to a larger market. Along with this, he is also preparing to adopt alternative means like fish farming and goat rearing.
Salikram Verma’s story proves that if new techniques are adopted with patience and hard work, farming can not only be made profitable but also responsible towards the environment. His life and work is an inspiration for today’s farmers. His journey teaches us that farming is not just a business but an integral part of our responsibility towards society and the environment.
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