Visakhapatnam: The Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF) initiative has heralded a significant agro-ecological movement in Srikakulam district.In particular, a growing number of farmers belonging to Palavalasa village in Burja mandal of Srikakulam district, are embracing cultivation of organic crops. Approximately, 30 farmer families have adopted natural and organic farming techniques, transitioning from conventional farming, wherein they relied heavily on chemical fertilisers and pesticides.These farmers have collectively aggregated their small plots of land, ranging from five to 10 cents each, into five acres and have dedicatedly taken up organic cultivation. They grow a diverse range of greens, vegetables and other crops for about 11 months in a year, excluding May.The farmers have demonstrated their commitment to environmental safety and sustainability. They have become role models of success and prosperity through organic farming.APCNF Srikakulam district project manager Patruni Revati told Deccan Chronicle, “By utilising organic fertilisers, such as cattle dung, Jeevamrit, Ghanamrit, neem flour and neem infusion, these farmers have successfully produced high-demand organic products, which are eagerly sought after in the Palakonda market. They have achieved substantial profits by avoiding intermediaries and selling their produce directly to end consumers.”Rythu Sadhikara Samstha member Guruvu Janardhan Rao said the success of organic farmers in Palavalasa village has sparked interest in neighbouring villages of Burja, Amadalavalasa and Sarubujjili mandals to adopt similar organic practices, Janardhan Rao disclosed.In particular, farmers from Nimmathorloda and Chickpet villages have begun cultivating sugarcane using organic fertilisers. They supply jaggery made out of this sugarcane to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam for use in Srivari prasadam, Janardhan Rao disclosed.Such transformation is inspiring many within the agricultural community to achieve financial success through organic farming.
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