Empowering Farmers Through Innovative Knowledge: Natural and Organic Farming Training at KVK Pokharni

Twenty-seven farmers learned how to improve their soils and livelihoods in the Natural and Organic Farming Training program at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Pokharni, Nanded. The activity was part of the Responsible Sourcing Program (RSP), sponsored by Nestlé and supported by PARAS Spices Pvt. Ltd., with the Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN), as technical supporter, and the Pasidi Panta Foundation as implementing partner.

The event was anchored and coordinated by Dr. Amita Kshatriya, Agriculture Extension Specialist at KVK Pokharni. Participant farmers came from the Pokharbhosi, Dhanora, Pimpalgaon, and Dhavri villages of Loha taluka.

The program began with a welcome address by Dr. Devikant Deshmukh, senior scientist and head of KVK Pokharni, who emphasized that organic and natural farming are not merely modern trends but a return to the wisdom of traditional agriculture. He encouraged farmers to approach this journey with patience and dedication, carrying forward the values of earlier generations.

Prof. Sandeep Jaibhaye followed with an insightful presentation on soil fertility, biodiversity, and the interconnection between natural systems and sustainable farming. His session helped participants understand how balanced ecosystems can improve productivity while preserving the environment.

RSP Farmers exposure visit to Pokharni KVK.

Later, Prof. Manik Kalyankar, crop protection specialist, provided practical guidance on integrated pest and disease management in turmeric and cotton crops. He demonstrated the use of organic inputs, seed treatment methods, and bio-fungicides, enabling farmers to adopt eco-friendly techniques for healthier yields.

In another engaging session, Dr. Mahesh Ambore, veterinary expert, spoke about the critical role of livestock in natural farming systems. The session highlighted interdependence of agriculture and animal husbandry and shared natural preventive measures for lumpy skin disease and tick infestation, including a home-prepared spray made from neem, karanj, and eucalyptus oils mixed with soap and water. His practical tips were well-received by the farmers.

Mrs. Alka Pawale, home science specialist, encouraged women farmers to participate in skill development programs on kitchen gardening, food processing (amla, banana, turmeric, pulses), tailoring, and embroidery conducted at KVK, empowering them to explore additional income opportunities.

KVK Staff explaining sustainable farming practices to RSP turmeric farmers.

To conclude, Dr. Amita Kshatriya discussed the use of social media and artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture, urging farmers to stay informed and leverage digital tools for better farm management and decision-making.

A total of 27 farmers attended the training, including progressive farmers Maroti Dange, Parshuram Bhujbal, Nitin Dhage, and Gopal Wakde. The event was supported by technical assistant Rakesh Wadle, along with Mr. Yelpadwad and Mr. Suryawanshi.

RSP women SHG farmers training on livelihood activities.

Mr. Anil Kumar Kannan, vice president of agri-business at PARAS Spices praised the event stressing that strengthening field-level engagement, improving data documentation, and scaling successful farmer models will guide the future direction of the RSP activities in the region.

The day concluded with a sense of renewed purpose and inspiration. Farmers left not only with new knowledge but also with a commitment to adopt sustainable, nature-aligned farming practices- sowing the seeds of a more resilient agricultural future.