A Low-Cost Organic Farming Initiative by women farmers

A Low-Cost Organic Farming Initiative by women farmers 

The Vasundhara project, a low-cost organic farming initiative, was successfully implemented across three blocks of Yavatmal district in Maharashtra. The year-long program engaged a total of 801 women farmers from 39 villages. 

The primary objective of the initiative was to promote the adoption of sustainable, low-cost organic farming practices. Women farmers were given hands-on training in preparing eco-friendly agricultural inputs using locally available materials such as plant leaves, cow dung, and cow urine, etc. These efforts significantly reduced production costs while maintaining — and in some cases improving — crop productivity. The result was an increased financial surplus for participating farmers, enhancing both their livelihoods and confidence.

The engagement and enthusiasm of the women farmers were remarkable. They actively participated not just in farming activities but also in a range of related SOCC (Self-Organized Community Contribution) activities such as:

• Attending training sessions
• Participating in village cleanliness drives
• Installing bird perches in farmlands to encourage natural pest control
• Maintaining kitchen gardens
• Contributing to regular monthly savings

Through Vasundhara, these women have become key change agents, championing an agricultural model that is cost-effective, environmentally sound, and rooted in community empowerment.