PNS|Vijayawada
Agriculture Minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy inaugurated a prestigious four-year ‘Farmer Scientist Course’ at the Indo- German Global Academy for Agro-ecology Research and Learning (IGGAARL) building in Pulivendula, YSR Kadapa District.
The Minister expressed pride in Andhra Pradesh’s growing reputation in the global agricultural community, attributing it to the success of Natural Farming and Rythu Sadhikara Samstha (RySS). He emphasised that the State’s natural farming practices have garnered attention worldwide due to the numerous benefits they offer, including improved health, soil protection, expanded marketing opportunities, and higher yields with minimal investments.
Kakani asserted that the implementation of Natural Farming across Andhra Pradesh is expected to yield positive results, and the launch of this unique Farmer Scientist Course will empower farmers to become scientists, contributing not only to their own lands but also to the welfare of their fellow farmers and entire villages.
T Vijay Kumar, Executive Vice Chairman of RySS announced the commencement of the first-ever 4-year graduation course, designed for practising natural farmers aspiring to become natural farming scientists. He revealed that already more than 8 lakhs farmers across 4 lakh hectares and 3730 Gram Panchayats in Andhra Pradesh have adopted natural farming practices, and the long-term vision is to extend this approach to every village and farmer in the state within the next 7-8 years.
Walter Jehne, an eminent Australian scientist, virtually addressed the gathering and highlighted the significance of natural farming in conserving water resources. He stressed the urgent need to embrace natural farming practices worldwide to protect hydrological and water systems. Jehne emphasized that this approach, rooted in harmony with nature, has the potential to transform the financial landscape of villages while playing a vital role in safeguarding the environment. He commended the experiments conducted by RySS, which have served as a role model for the rest of the world.
Iris Harder, the Portfolio Manager from KFW Development Bank, Germany, also joined virtually and underscored the importance of natural farming. She asserted that all practitioners of chemical farming should consider transitioning to natural farming practices, as it addresses numerous challenges faced by the farming community today.
The launch of the Farmer Scientist Course marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of sustainable agriculture in Andhra Pradesh, setting an inspiring example for the world to follow.
With the combined efforts of the government, academicians, scientists, and farmers, the vision of a thriving, environmentally conscious farming community appears well within reach.
