“I never imagined my small plot of land could hold so much life,” Michi Yatung says, her eyes sparkling with pride as she surveys her farm in Siibey village, Arunachal Pradesh. “Each day brings a new discovery, a new connection between the plants, animals, and the earth itself.”

Michi’s journey from a struggling smallholder farmer to a symbol of sustainable agriculture is a testament to the transformative power of the Integrated Farming System (IFS). Her farm, once a monotonous stretch of land, now buzzes with diversity – a living, breathing ecosystem that has not only secured her livelihood but also inspired her entire community.

In the verdant landscapes of Siibey village in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Subansiri district, Michi’s story unfolds like a tapestry of resilience and innovation. As an Indigenous Seed Saver, she began with a treasure trove of 22 varieties of local seeds, each holding the promise of sustenance and cultural preservation. But it was her embrace of the IFS model that truly set her farm apart.

Today, Michi’s plot is a patchwork of vibrant produce that defies the challenges of high-altitude farming. Cash crops like maize and monopodial bamboo stand tall alongside an assortment of vegetables – pumpkin, Bok choy, and mustard greens painting a colorful picture of abundance. Fruit trees, from kiwi to persimmon, add another layer to this agricultural symphony. Traditional staples like finger millet, foxtail millet, and sorghum find their place too, a nod to the region’s rich culinary heritage.

But it’s not just about crops. Michi’s innovative spirit shines through in her approach to livestock. “Goats are hardy and adaptable,” she explains, gesturing to a small herd grazing nearby. “They’ve proven to be a valuable addition, providing manure for compost and an extra source of income.” This decision to integrate goats, uncommon in Arunachal Pradesh, has sparked curiosity among her neighbors, encouraging them to explore new possibilities in farming.

The integration of fish farming in Ziro’s high-altitude climate was another bold move. “It wasn’t easy,” Michi admits, “but with persistence and support, I’ve seen how every element of the farm can work in harmony.” The fish ponds now serve multiple purposes – providing natural pest control, nutrient recycling, and enhancing soil fertility for her crops.

Michi’s journey, though remarkable, hasn’t been without its challenges. The labor-intensive task of weeding often strained her budget, and the involvement of middlemen ate into her profits. It was at this juncture that the Itanagar Diocesan Empowerment Association (IDEA) stepped in, proving to be a crucial ally in her quest for sustainable farming.

Ratan Lal Deka from IDEA reflects on Michi’s journey: “Michi’s dedication to sustainable farming is inspiring. By introducing mulching techniques, we’ve helped reduce her labor costs significantly. The revival of foxtail millet, a forgotten staple, has not only enriched her farm’s biodiversity but also her community’s diet.”

IDEA’s support extended beyond farming techniques. They helped Michi and her fellow farmers establish a farmer’s outlet, cutting out intermediaries and ensuring direct access to consumers. This initiative has been a game-changer, enabling Michi to earn approximately ₹8,000 per month—an impressive feat for a smallholder in the region.

For Michi, the impact of IFS transcends economic gains. “This journey has taught me the importance of balance,” she shares, her voice filled with conviction. “My farm is a living system where crops, animals, and nature coexist. It’s about respecting the land and giving back to it.”

Her farm has become a micro-ecosystem, where every element plays a crucial role. Cow dung, pig waste, and azolla are converted into rich compost, while crop residues feed her livestock. This closed-loop system exemplifies environmental stewardship, a core principle of IFS.

Beyond her personal achievements, Michi’s success has sparked a wave of community development. Neighbors, initially skeptical, now seek her guidance to adopt similar practices. The establishment of the farmer’s outlet has strengthened community ties, fostering a sense of collective progress. “It’s heartening to see more farmers embracing diversification,” Michi notes. “We’re not just feeding our families; we’re building resilience for the future.”

The symbiotic relationships nurtured on Michi’s farm illustrate the holistic nature of IFS. Vegetables grow in the shade of fruit trees, fish enrich the water for irrigation, and goats graze on crop stubble, contributing to an integrated, sustainable cycle. By interweaving traditional wisdom with modern practices, Michi has redefined the possibilities of farming in Arunachal Pradesh.

Today, Siibey village stands as a living classroom, drawing visitors eager to learn from Michi’s model farm. Her journey underscores a simple yet profound truth: when we work in harmony with nature, the rewards extend far beyond the harvest.

As the sun sets over her thriving farm, Michi’s words resonate with profound wisdom: “Farming isn’t just about growing crops. It’s about growing possibilities—for our families, our communities, and our future.” In Siibey village, those possibilities are blooming in vibrant, sustainable abundance, a testament to one woman’s vision and the transformative power of integrated farming.