East Godavari Shines: A Deep Dive into Andhra Pradesh's Natural Farming Revolution

A wave of sustainable agriculture is sweeping across Andhra Pradesh, with East Godavari district emerging as a beacon of natural farming success. Recently, a dedicated team from NOW (Natural Organic World) Partners embarked on a crucial study tour, delving deep into the heart of rural communities to observe and learn from pioneering farmers embracing agro-ecological practices.

The team, comprising experts from the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), and experienced farmers, visited villages like Konteru and Vegiwaripalem.

Their mission was clear: to witness firsthand the transformative power of natural farming and engage in direct dialogue with the cultivators who are making it a reality on the ground.

One of the highlights of their visit was meeting P. V. S. N. Raju in Konteru. Raju, a passionate advocate for Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), shared his journey of success in cultivating paddy and black gram.

His fields serve as a living testament to the efficacy of natural methods, showcasing healthy crops thriving without synthetic inputs.

The journey continued to Vegiwaripalem, where the team was introduced to a cluster of dedicated farmers, including M. Lova Raju, P. Subba Rao, V. Srinivas, and B.

Appa Rao. These individuals have not only adopted natural farming techniques but have also become trainers and mentors within their communities, guiding others towards sustainable agricultural practices. Their collaborative spirit and willingness to share knowledge are key drivers of the movement.

The observations made during this visit strongly reaffirmed the profound benefits of natural farming.

Farmers consistently reported a significant reduction in their input costs, a major financial relief that directly contributes to improved livelihoods. Furthermore, these practices are proving to be instrumental in enhancing soil health, fostering biodiversity, and building resilience against the unpredictable impacts of climate change.

The resultant increase in yields and the production of healthier, chemical-free food are transforming the agricultural landscape.

This initiative by NOW Partners aligns perfectly with the broader vision of the Andhra Pradesh government, which has been actively promoting natural farming through its ambitious Community Managed Natural Farming (CMNF) program.

The program aims to transition millions of farmers towards ecologically sound and economically viable agricultural systems, ensuring food security and environmental sustainability for future generations.

The success stories emerging from East Godavari are not just isolated incidents; they are powerful examples that inspire hope and demonstrate the tangible advantages of working in harmony with nature.

Such collaborative studies and farmer-to-farmer exchanges are vital in accelerating the adoption of natural farming, ultimately leading to a more resilient, prosperous, and sustainable agricultural sector across the state.