As we commemorate World Environment Day, the urgent realities of climate change and the detrimental effects of conventional farming and pesticide-laden foods on our health and well-being are increasingly evident.

Our farming and food production systems are intertwined with numerous global challenges, from hunger and deforestation to being one of the leading emitters of greenhouse gas emissions globally.

However, what if we reimagine the role of farming as a catalyst for environmental conservation? What if we harness its potential to become earth-friendly, and health-promoting, nourishing all?

This is where Regenerative Farming comes into play!

Organic India, as pioneers of the organic food movement in India, champions regenerative farming practices every day, not just on World Environment Day.

We work with several small family farmers across India to cultivate thousands of acres of sustainable organic farmland.

Deeply rooted in reverence for nature and the pursuit of True Wellness for all, ORGANIC INDIA’s regenerative agriculture program uses natural and earth-friendly practices inspired by modern science and aligned with ancient wisdom to grow certified crops that support soil health, local seed preservation, water management, and biodiversity.

This approach enables the environment to thrive naturally, free from harmful chemicals or synthetic inputs.

Let's explore how Organic India translates these principles into action through their regenerative organic practices:

1. Dryland Farming:

Our approach to dryland farming, also known as rain-fed agriculture, is a testament to our water-wise ethos. By relying solely on natural precipitation during the Kharif (rainy) season, we reduce the strain on water resources while ensuring the health of our crops. Our farmer partners employ micro irrigation, bunding, tube wells, and pipes to sustainably irrigate crops during the Rabi (dry) season.

2. Composting:

We believe in harnessing the power of nature's own processes to enrich our soil. Our farmers practice composting using locally sourced materials such as cow dung, vermicompost, weeds, and natural liquid fertilisers like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit. This creates a self-sustaining ecosystem that supports diverse microbial life and nutrient cycling, resulting in nutrient-rich compost for our crops.

3. Animal Grazing:

The presence of cows on our farms not only contributes to household self-sufficiency but also enhances soil fertility. Our cows graze on organic fodder, while their dung is utilized to enrich our compost systems, reducing our dependency on external inputs.

4. Cover Crops:

After the Rabi season, we sow green legume crops to promote soil retention and improve soil structure. These cover crops act as green manure, enriching the soil and preparing it for subsequent crop cycles.

5. Crop Rotation:

We implement strategic crop rotation practices, alternating between legumes, medicinal plants, green manure, and various crop types throughout the year. This diverse rotation nurtures the soil, minimizes pests and diseases, and enhances overall crop resilience.

6. Minimal Soil Disturbance:

To preserve soil health, all our herbs are handpicked, and farms are manually weeded. We practice low tillage methods to prepare seed beds for sowing, avoiding deep ploughing or the use of heavy machinery.

7. Agroforestry:

We integrate naturally grown trees, shrubs, and climbers on our farms to support biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. These native trees serve as protective barriers, provide tree fodder for animals, and foster synergistic relationships within the ecosystem.

Nearly 70% of our crops are grown in the rainy season without the need for irrigation, emphasising sustainable water management practices.

Our regenerative agriculture program thus emerges as a transformative solution to decarbonise the food system and build resilience against climate change. It fosters biodiversity, mitigates habitat destruction for agriculture, and nurtures the farm ecosystem rather than depleting it.

Moreover, it offers substantial benefits for our farmers, ensuring sustainable livelihoods through reduced costs, increased crop yields and quality, and enhanced resilience to market fluctuations and extreme weather events.

Growing A Sustainable Future:

By prioritizing regenerative organic practices, we not only produce high-quality products but promote environmental stewardship and foster a greener, healthier world for all.

As we commemorate World Environment Day, let us renew our collective pledge to protect and nurture our planet.

Together, let's cultivate a future where nature thrives, communities prosper, and True Wellness is within reach for all.