As India braces for a potentially weak monsoon season,the Isha Foundation is advocating for a shift towards tree-based agriculture. This approach,could enhance farmers' incomes while conserving water, revitalizing rivers, and improving soil health over time. The call for this ecological movement comes as the nation faces challenges in farming operations and water availability .
On Friday, the foundation urged government to implement policy changes that would enable the successful model seen in Tamil Nadu to be adopted nationwide . They argue that such measures could make India more resilient to drought and climate change,promoting sustainability and environmental protection. The initiative aligns with the foundation's 'Save Soil - Cauvery Calling' campaign, which has already led to the planting of 134 million trees and supported 260,000 farmers in transitioning to tree-based farming practices.
“When policy and farmers align, India can revive its soil, replenish its water resources,and secure rural livelihoods in one bold move,”stated Anand Ethirajalu, project director of the Save Soil initiative.
Farmers interested in adopting these practices can do so without sacrificing productivity,according to Valluvan,a farmer recognized by the UN for his sustainable methods. He explained that techniques like minimal tillage, mulching, and cover cropping have allowed him to reduce reliance on fertilizers and pesticides. His own transformation of a coconut monoculture into a diverse food forest,featuring timber,pepper, and fruit crops,has resulted in a sixfold increase in farm income over years .
The foundation's efforts come ahead of World Environment Day on June 5,emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices in the face of climate challenges.
