Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh: A farmer from Rayalaseema has become an inspiring example of how natural farming can generate steady income even from small landholdings. By cultivating 20 varieties of vegetables and leafy greens on just 20 cents of land, farmer Ramesh from Gudencheruvu village, Jammalamadugu mandal, earns nearly ₹10,000 every month without relying on chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
Farming without Chemicals or Middlemen
Ramesh follows natural farming techniques by avoiding chemical pesticides and reducing dependency on labor. Instead, he grows his crops organically and sells them directly to local consumers, bypassing middlemen. This ensures better profits and healthier produce for villagers.
Innovative Cultivation on Limited Land
On the small plot, Ramesh cultivates both creeper crops and ground crops. Around the edges, he plants creepers, while the middle rows are filled with vegetables such as brinjal, tomato, chili, okra, turmeric, spinach, and gourds. He uses pheromone traps (known as “Lingakarshaka Buttas”) to control pests naturally. His mixed farming method ensures year-round harvests and consistent income.
Natural Farming Success Story in Rayalaseema: Crops Grown in 20 Cents of Land
Ramesh successfully grows a wide range of vegetables and leafy greens, including:
- Brinjal, Tomato, Chili, Okra, Bitter Gourd, Ridge Gourd, Bottle Gourd, Pumpkin
- Spinach, Chukka kura, Mustard Greens, Amaranthus, Thotakura
- Turmeric, Black Sesame, Cowpea, Sorrel Leaves, Green Gram, Bengal Gram
- Decorative crops like Marigold flowers
This diverse farming pattern provides continuous income and minimizes risks from crop failure.
Expert Views on Natural Farming
According to agricultural experts, natural farming practices not only reduce input costs but also enhance soil fertility, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has highlighted the global importance of such models in promoting climate-resilient agriculture.
FAQs on natural farming success story in Rayalaseema
Q1: Can natural farming on small landholdings really provide sustainable income?
Yes. Ramesh’s example from Rayalaseema shows that with proper crop diversity and direct selling, even 20 cents of land can generate steady income.
Q2: What methods are used to control pests in natural farming?
Farmers use techniques like pheromone traps, neem-based sprays, and intercropping to reduce pest infestations without chemicals.
Q3: What are the benefits of natural farming compared to chemical farming?
It reduces production costs, improves soil health, ensures chemical-free food, and supports eco-friendly farming systems.
Conclusion on natural farming success story in Rayalaseema
Ramesh’s natural farming success story in Rayalaseema proves that small landholding farmers can achieve sustainable income with organic methods. His model stands as an inspiring example for others seeking healthier farming alternatives and financial stability.