In the remote village of Salhedanda, amidst the dense forests of Mandla district, the determination of a young tribal woman has turned the tide on the challenges faced by her community. The resilience and innovation Ms. Manila Bhavediya, have sparked a revolution in sustainable agriculture through the Caritas India SAFBIN program.

Salhedanda village, predominantly inhabited by Gond Tribals, is a place where 90 percent of the farmers are smallholders reliant on rain-fed agriculture. Historically self-reliant, the tribal people had their unique agricultural practices, seeds, and knowledge passed down through generations. However, the lure of hybrid seeds and chemical fertilizers, promoted by multinational companies, led many farmers astray, resulting in diminished soil health, increased vulnerability to climate change, and a decline in traditional practices.

Amidst these challenges, the SAFBIN project aimed to restore local seeds, promote green vegetable cultivation and encourage integrated farming systems to combat climate change impacts. Inspired by this initiative, Manila boldly transformed her modest farm into a multi-layer nutrition garden.

The concept of the multilayer nutrition garden is rooted in the principle of maximizing productivity using minimal space and resources. Manila’s garden is a thriving example of this, built entirely using locally available materials and organic methods. Eschewing synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, she embraced sustainable practices such as using Azolla manure, vermicompost, liquid growth promoters, and homemade pest repellents. This approach reduced her dependence on commercial products and ensured the cultivation of healthy, toxin-free vegetables.

The garden follows a seasonal and layout plan meticulously developed by the SAFBIN program team. The multi-layer system enables the cultivation of a variety of vegetables throughout the year. Leafy greens, creepers, tuber crops, and other nutritious plants grow in harmony, creating a biodiverse and resilient agricultural ecosystem. This innovative model has not only enhanced the nutritional intake of Manila’s family but has also provided a steady income stream. In a single year, Manila sold vegetables worth around 80,000 rupees and fruits like Amla and Lemon worth an additional 12,000 rupees.

Beyond the financial gains, Manila’s initiative has sparked a broader movement within her community. Her success has inspired other smallholder farmers to adopt similar practices, leading to a community-wide shift towards sustainable agriculture. The multi-layer nutrition garden stands as a testament to what can be achieved with determination, local resources, and the right support.

“Through integrated farming, not only my livelihood is improving, but I have also inspired a community-wide movement towards prosperity and resilience while mitigating the effects of climate change,” Manila said with great confidence.

Salhedanda village is gradually evolving, guided by the principles of the SAFBIN-III (OBOS) project. Manila’s garden is more than just a source of fresh produce; it symbolizes hope, sustainability, and the power of community-driven change. Her story underscores the potential of innovative agricultural practices to bring about socio-economic empowerment, reduce dependency on commercial inputs, and promote environmental stewardship.

Manila Bhavediya’s journey from a struggling farmer to a beacon of sustainable agriculture is an inspiring narrative of resilience and innovation. It showcases how local solutions, community support, and a commitment to sustainable practices can transform lives and landscapes, paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.