Marriguda: The Telangana Development Forum (TDF) organized an awareness and training camp on natural farming for the farmers of Marriguda mandal in Nalgonda district. This program, held under the leadership of TDF India President Matt Rajeshwar Reddy and General Secretary Vinil, aimed to promote natural farming in Telangana as part of the TDF-Jaikisan Project. With the slogan “Our Seeds, Our Crops, Our Health,” the event was designed to benefit both farmers and consumers.
Telangana Farmers Association member Marakanti Bhavani attended the event, where she commended the TDF-Jaikisan Project for its continuous efforts to promote natural farming across Telangana.
Experienced natural farmers Prasad Reddy, Baireddy Naresh Reddy, retired professor Narasimha Reddy, Indira, and Party Narender Reddy conducted training sessions for the farmers. They explained modern techniques of natural farming, the reasons for adopting these methods, and the benefits farmers can expect. They also encouraged the younger generation to take up farming. TDF extended special thanks to CEO Baire Subhash and Sales and Vice President Raju of Vishwa Agrotech Company for providing organic fertilizers free of cost.
During the event, TDF-USA President Srinivas Manikonda emphasized that the goal of this initiative was the financial well-being of farmers and the health of consumers. Addressing the necessity of natural farming in Telangana, he expressed concern over the excessive use of chemicals and pesticides in the state, which ranks third in India in pesticide usage, with an average of 900 kilograms per hectare. He also shared insights into sustainable farming practices in the U.S.
TDF India President Rajeshwar Reddy highlighted TDF’s ongoing efforts to promote natural farming with the slogan “Our Seeds, Our Crops, Our Health.” He urged farmers to transition towards natural farming to mitigate the future health risks posed by chemical-intensive agriculture. He especially encouraged youth to engage in natural farming.
In the training camp, successful natural farmers used LED screens to display images and videos to educate farmers. They covered topics such as how and why to practice natural farming and its benefits. They also provided guidance on Zero Budget Natural Farming, a method requiring minimal investment.
Farmers who attended the camp were served meals prepared with indigenous, natural ingredients. Organic fertilizer kits were distributed to farmers interested in natural farming, and stalls showcasing agricultural products and various resources for farmers were set up.
The event saw the participation of 500 farmers, along with officials such as Horticulture Department Officer Ravula Vidyasagar, Agriculture Assistant Director Venugopal, and Marriguda Agriculture Officer Hemalatha, as well as farmers from various villages.
