Climate change has exacerbated the environmental degradation causing weak soil health, low agriculture productivity, losing biodiversity, and food insecurity. The importance of sustainable agriculture practices like organic farming and good agricultural practices cannot be overstated. By nurturing soil health and reducing reliance on chemical inputs, organic farming not only enhances crop yields but also promotes the well-being of farmers and their families. In Mahabubabad district, the U3 project by Caritas India is making significant strides in empowering marginalized farmers burdened by debt, guiding them toward a more sustainable and prosperous future through organic farming methods, particularly the innovative use of “Jeevamrutham.”

Banoth Srinu and Badhavath Sadhar Lal, both hailing from a backward tribal community in Line Thanda, exemplify the transformative power of this initiative. At 35 and 28 years old, respectively, these young farmers have faced the harsh realities of agricultural life, struggling with rising debts due to heavy investments in chemical fertilizers that yielded little return. With families to support—Srinu’s three children and Sadhar Lal’s two—both men were desperate for a solution that could alleviate their financial strain while improving their agricultural output.

The turning point came with the intervention of Caritas India’s U3 project, which trained these farmers in organic farming techniques and the preparation of “Jeevamrutham,” a nutrient-rich bio-input made from cow dung, urine, and other natural ingredients. This training not only introduced them to multi-cropping practices that enhance soil fertility but also provided them with practical knowledge on how to reduce their dependency on costly chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

One innovative aspect of this project was the introduction of permanent cement drums for preparing “Jeevamrutham,” replacing less durable plastic drums. Under the guidance of Fr. Inna Reddy, Director of Lodi Multi Purpose Social Service Society (Lodi MSSS), these farmers constructed their own cement drums, allowing them to produce this vital organic input more efficiently. With encouragement from project staff and community educators, Srinu and Sadhar Lal eagerly adopted these organic practices on their three acres of land.

The results have been nothing short of remarkable. By applying “Jeevamrutham” and utilizing herbal sprays to manage pests, they have seen their cotton, paddy, and maize crops flourish like never before. The growth is healthier, pest infestations are significantly reduced, and they are now witnessing better yields without the crippling financial burden associated with chemical farming. Their confidence has soared as they prepare to harvest crops that promise not only sustenance but also a way out of debt.

The impact of this initiative extends beyond just Srinu and Sadhar Lal; they have become role models in their community. Their success story has inspired neighboring farmers to explore organic farming methods themselves. Through exposure programs organized by the U3 project, over 40 farmers from nearby mandals visited Srinu and Sadhar Lal’s farms to learn about “Jeevamrutham” production firsthand. This knowledge exchange has sparked a growing interest in sustainable agriculture practices within the region.

As they look to the future, both farmers are committed to continuing their journey in organic farming. They express heartfelt gratitude to Caritas India and the U3 project for equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to transform their lives. By embracing organic farming practices, they are not only improving their own livelihoods but also contributing to environmental conservation efforts that benefit their entire community.

Caritas India’s U3 project is successfully addressing the pressing issues faced by marginalized farmers like Banoth Srinu and Badhavath Sadhar Lal. By promoting organic farming techniques such as “Jeevamrutham,” this initiative is fostering resilience against climate change while paving the way for sustainable agricultural practices that can uplift entire communities from poverty and debt. As more farmers join this movement, there is hope for a greener future where agriculture thrives in harmony with nature.