Andhra Pradesh Community-managed Natural Farming

Join us in driving a greener future! The Sadar Hills Green Movement is hosting a one-day workshop on #NaturalFarming by #APCNF, aimed at empowering farmers with sustainable, chemical-free agricultural practices. This initiative focuses on building awareness, identifying volunteer farmers, and providing hands-on training with long-term support to create a model for natural farming in the region. Together, let’s nurture healthier soils, better livelihoods, and a sustainable tomorrow. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @NITIAayog @icarindia @AgriGoI #SustainableAgriculture #GreenMovement

Kappatralla village in Kurnool district is emerging as a model for #NaturalFarming, as appreciated by Bhavika, a PhD scholar from the @LSEEcon , during her visit to #NaturalFarming fields. She observed #APCNF practices at farmer Rangaswamy’s farm, including the five-layer model, PMDS method with Beejamrutham, and diversified agroforestry systems with mango, Chiku, and cashew plantations. Highlighting the scientific strength of the approach, Bhavika stated, “The five-layer natural farming model here is not only sustainable but also strongly rooted in ecological science, ensuring better soil health, biodiversity, and resilience, which is clearly reflected in the quality and yield of crops.” The visit also featured farmer felicitation, a virtual interaction with IPS officer Shri A.K. Ravikrishna encouraging the village’s transformation into a fully Natural Farming model, and initiatives like the upcoming BRC center and Food Basket program to support wider adoption among farmers and women’s groups. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 #Beejamrutham #SoilHealth #Biodiversity #ClimateResilience #FarmersFirst #RuralDevelopment

Subbarao, a farmer from Mukkamala village in East Godavari district, is successfully cultivating Crossandra through #NaturalFarming under #APCNF practices. By adopting self-prepared natural inputs and eliminating chemical usage, he has significantly reduced cultivation costs while ensuring a stable income stream. “Natural farming has become a strong support system for my family. With the guidance of #APCNF, I learned the techniques to cultivate Crossandra and now earn around ₹30,000 per month after expenses,” he says. This model demonstrates how farmers can achieve improved crop quality, reduced input costs, and sustainable livelihoods through natural farming. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 #FarmerSuccess #SustainableAgriculture

A field exposure visit was organized with Diploma students and faculty from Kalikiri, Annamayya District, to #APCNF field, where visitors were taken through ATM and A-Grade Paddy models with detailed explanations on their scientific principles and field-level implementation. At Bio Resource Centre, students were introduced to various #NaturalFarming formulations, highlighting their uniqueness and benefits, followed by practical demonstrations on the preparation of Beejamrutham, Dhrava Jeevamrutham, and Ghana Jeevamrutham. The session was led by @iggaarl Mentor Sri G. Krishnamurthy, Chittoor District, who provided in-depth insights into #APCNF practices and facilitated an engaging learning experience. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 #SustainableAgriculture #FarmerEmpowerment #AgriEducation

Climate uncertainties, driven by phenomena like the El Nino effect, continue to disrupt agricultural systems, especially in drought-prone regions. In districts like Anantapur and Sri Sathya Sai, prolonged dependence on chemical-intensive farming has led to declining soil fertility, moisture stress, and rising cultivation costs, eventually forcing large areas of land to be left fallow. Inorder to revive these fallow lands, #APCNF farmers are adopting practical, low-cost #NaturalFarming models that address both ecological degradation and economic risk, making cultivation viable again. A key innovation in this transition is the Half-Moon Model , a simple yet powerful land and water conservation technique designed to retain rainwater, reduce soil erosion, and restore soil health even in rocky terrains. By improving moisture retention and enabling natural regeneration of the topsoil, this model is helping bring previously unproductive lands back under cultivation, making farming viable again in some of the most challenging agro-climatic conditions. This video features Hon’ble Chief Minister @ncbn's direct interaction with #APCNF farmers and district teams in Anantapur and Sri Sathya Sai districts, where he reviews the impact of #NaturalFarming and discusses the potential of the Half-Moon model in reviving drought-affected agricultural landscapes. @vijaythallam @rajbudithi65 @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @NITIAayog @icarindia @AgriGoI @PMOIndia #WaterConservation #RegenerativeAgriculture #FarmersFirst #AgriInnovation #ElNinoImpact #DrylandFarming #EcoFriendlyFarming #AgriTransformation #RuralDevelopment

A joint field visit was conducted in Nandyal District (Dhone Division) by the #RythuSadhikaraSamstha team in collaboration with @bigbasket_com to strengthen market linkages for #NaturalFarming farmers. NF fields across Obulapuram, Dharmavaram, Gagosanipalli, and Chintalapeta villages were inspected, covering mango, banana, onion, chrysanthemum, and vegetable crops. As stated by Sri Ankush Kumar, Head , Organic CCs, #BigBasket, “Farm-gate procurement will be taken up within a 25 km radius for farmers with higher production, while collection centre procurement will be arranged for farmers with lower quantities.” Key outcomes: * 35 farmers identified for immediate procurement * Direct market linkage established with BigBasket * Collection centre feasibility assessed * PGS-certified farmers to receive premium pricing support * Crop planning initiated for continuous supply This initiative strengthens assured market access and enhances income opportunities for NF farmers in Nandyal. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 #MarketLinkages #FarmerEmpowerment #Nandyal #SustainableAgriculture

Farmers embracing #NaturalFarming are increasingly achieving stable and rewarding outcomes through well-planned practices. Farmer Venkata Rajesh exemplifies this shift in approach. His experience highlights that beyond improving yields of primary crops, these methods strengthen overall farm efficiency, resilience, and long-term sustainability. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 #FarmerSuccess #EcoFriendlyFarming #HealthySoil #FarmToFuture #AgriTransformation #IndianFarmers #RuralDevelopment #ClimateSmartFarming

The District-Level #NaturalFarming Training of Trainers (ToT) program was successfully conducted at the DPMU Office, Anantapur, under the esteemed leadership of @CollectorAnd. The three-day training, guided by CT&IO and DPM Sri V. Lakshma Nayak, saw active participation from Agriculture and Horticulture officials, @SERPANDHRA staff, and Natural Farming teams. The sessions focused on climate-resilient agriculture, highlighting innovative models such as PMDS, Drought Proof Model, and Half Moon model, along with strategies to mitigate El Nino impacts through soil cover and crop diversity. Practical field-based insights across multiple crops, including banana, pomegranate, cotton, paddy, groundnut, chickpea, mulberry, and vegetables were shared. The District Collector emphasized scaling up PMDS across the district and strengthening inter-departmental convergence to promote Natural Farming at the grassroots level. DAO Anantapur Sri Ravi Kumar and DAO Sri Sathya Sai Sri Krishnaiah appreciated the innovative efforts and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding Natural Farming through village organizations, marking a significant step toward positioning Anantapur as a model for sustainable agriculture at national and global levels. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 #ClimateResilience

As part of the ongoing statewide Training of Trainers (ToT) under #NaturalFarming, the program is focused on building the capacity of field teams with practical, climate-resilient farming strategies in preparation for the upcoming #KharifSeason. It aims to enable trainers to effectively transfer knowledge and drive large-scale on-ground implementation. At a regional training centre, Guntur, Day 2 focused on hands-on learning and field-level demonstrations: Participants were oriented on the composition of PMDS seed kits, followed by a live demonstration to ensure clarity on usage and application. Detailed sessions were conducted on district-wise Farmer Scientist (FS) strategies under the 365 DGC framework, helping teams understand localized planning approaches for Kharif preparedness. A practical demonstration on seed pelletisation was carried out, along with a comprehensive explanation of crop wise protocols to achieve S2S (Seed to Seed) outcomes. Field demonstrations included the Half Moon and Drought Proof models in available spaces, showcasing their relevance in moisture conservation and drought resilience. Additionally, the #PMDS line sowing method suitable for rainfed conditions was demonstrated, emphasizing precision and efficiency during the Kharif season. The concept of BRCs (Bio Resource Centres) was introduced, with insights on business strategies and plans shared, encouraging entrepreneurial thinking at the grassroots level. All participant queries were addressed, with further clarifications to be extended through the system where required. The sessions were highly interactive, with participants expressing enthusiasm in learning new concepts and a strong willingness to actively engage in field implementation beyond digital platforms. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @AndhraPradeshCM #ClimateResilience #SustainableAgriculture #FarmerEmpowerment #AgriInnovation #SoilHealth #WaterConservation #ResilientFarming #FutureOfFarming #AgriDevelopment #FarmersFirst #SustainableLivelihoods #ClimateAction

Date : 01 Apr, 2026 Place : APAOS Association Hall, Vijayawada NTR District Collector Dr. G. Lakshmisha IAS, emphasized that farmers can achieve sustainable income even under challenging climatic conditions by combining traditional and innovative farming methods. He highlighted awareness on El Niño, the benefits of PMDS for better yields, and natural farming for soil and human health, while urging effective guidance and adoption of modern practices to build resilient agriculture. Officers attended : NTR District Agriculture Officer, District Horticulture Officer, PD ATMA & Others #NTRDistrict #SustainableFarming #PMDS #NaturalFarming #ElNino #ClimateResilientAgriculture #FarmInnovation #AgriTech #FarmerWelfare #SoilHealth #SmartFarming @APZBNF

“From soil revival to crop diversity , #NaturalFarming is transforming fields in Meghalaya". Grounding of the ATM model under the NRO programme was successfully carried out in Kyrdum village, Mawshynrut block, Meghalaya with farmers Dibility, Driemtiful Marwein & Leader Marwein. Emphasizing low-tillage Natural Farming, soil cover with biomass, enhanced microbial activity & crop diversity, multiple vegetable crops were sown using Beejamrutham for seed treatment and Ghanajeevamrutham across beds. Sowing was completed in two ATM models. “We are seeing healthier soil and better crop diversity with these practices,” shared the farmers. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 @MeghalayaNFryss @Meghalaya_agri #SustainableAgriculture #CropDiversity #Agroecology #EcoFriendlyFarming #ClimateResilientFarming #FarmerInnovation #SoilRevival #FarmersVoice #MeghalayaFarming

Discover #APCNF's #NaturalFarming revolution. Shri G. Muralidhar, Co-Lead & Advisor, #APCNF speaks on scaling community managed practices across millions of hectares since 2016. #APCNF empowers champion farmers leading sustainable agriculture in Andhra Pradesh with reduced chemical use. Muralidhar emphasizes "decreased farming costs, increased yields and returns, enormous savings in water and energy," plus health benefits from chemical-free practices. Watch: youtu.be/XU3ypdE7Sjc @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi @NITIAayog @icarindia @AgriGoI #AgriInnovation #FarmerEmpowerment #ClimateResilience #RegenerativeAgriculture #EcoFriendlyFarming #SoilHealth #WaterConservation #ChemicalFreeFarming #HealthyFood

Building Climate Resilience from the Ground Up. A 3-day intensive training program on El Nino mitigation through #NaturalFarming is being implemented across the state as part of a large-scale capacity-building initiative. The program focuses on equipping field functionaries with climate-resilient strategies using key models such as PMDS, 365DGC, Half Moon (HM), and Drought Proof, seamlessly integrated with Natural Farming practices. El Nino is a climate phenomenon caused by the warming of surface ocean waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. It disrupts normal weather patterns, often leading to reduced rainfall and drought-like conditions in many regions, including India. The core motto of these trainings is to empower farming communities to withstand climate uncertainties, ensure sustainable crop productivity, and promote year-round income security through low-cost, eco-friendly approaches. Participants have demonstrated strong engagement and a clear commitment to scaling these models on the ground. Such coordinated efforts across the state reflect a unified vision of building a resilient, sustainable, and future-ready agricultural ecosystem. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 #SustainableAgriculture #ClimateSmartAgriculture #FarmerEmpowerment #DroughtProofing #WaterConservation #EcoFriendlyFarming #ResilientFarming #FutureOfFarming #AgriDevelopment #GreenFarming #FarmersFirst #SustainableLivelihoods #ClimateAction

A Farmer Field School (FFS) session was successfully conducted as part of the #NRO programme at the potato field of Krishi Sakhi farmer Idaiamon Lyndoh in Kyrdum village, Mawshynrut Block, West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya. During the session, the crop was closely observed at its current growth stage, facilitating participatory learning and field-based analysis. A comprehensive discussion was held on pest and disease management in potato, in alignment with the recommended Package of Practices (POP). An Agro-Ecosystem Analysis (AESA) was carried out through systematic field observation, enabling informed, need-based decision-making. Based on the observations, Neemastra was recommended as an effective natural solution for pest management. In addition, a live demonstration on Jeevamrutham application was conducted to strengthen practical understanding among farmers. Participants were advised to undertake regular field monitoring to ensure timely and appropriate interventions. The session witnessed active participation from ICRPs, farmers, and Lead Farmers, fostering a collaborative platform for knowledge sharing and experiential learning. Additionally, a Surya Mandal model was established for farmer Tiiolis Nonglang. This involved the careful selection of upland, soil preparation through tillage, and precise layout marking for multi-diversity cropping using farm-saved seeds, reinforcing sustainable, low-cost, and resilient agricultural practices. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 #NROProgramme #SustainableAgriculture #AgroEcology #Jeevamrutham #PotatoCultivation #IntegratedPestManagement #SoilHealth

In Bhattuvanipalli village of Anantapur district, the Half Moon Model, an innovative intervention introduced by #APCNF, was successfully implemented in the fallow land of farmer Anjaneyulu. This model demonstrated significant benefits, including effective rainwater harvesting, prevention of soil erosion, enhanced water infiltration, laying a strong foundation for sustainable agriculture, and maintaining continuous green cover through diversified cropping. On the same occasion, PMDS seed pellets were sown in the fields where the Chief Technology & Innovation Officer Shri V. Lakshma Naik elaborated on the preparation methods and benefits of PMDS, followed by sowing under the guidance of District Collector Sri Anand, IAS. Speaking on the occasion, the Collector stated, “We are also promoting #NaturalFarming practices at the Collector’s bungalow by cultivating leafy greens, vegetables, and groundnut under our supervision.” He further emphasized, “Farmers should adopt Natural Farming practices to consume healthy food, reduce input costs, and enhance their incomes.” He also highlighted the role of community institutions, adding, “Women Self-Help Groups must take a lead in scaling up and sustaining these Natural Farming practices.” @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 #HalfMoonModel #SustainableAgriculture #ClimateResilientFarming #WaterConservation #SoilHealth #RainwaterHarvesting #AgriInnovation

The Nepal delegation deepened their immersion in Dwaraka Tirumala mandal, Eluru district, witnessing diversified #NaturalFarming systems across horticulture and multi-layer cropping models. The visit to the Bio-Resource Centre (BRC) offered hands-on insights into the preparation of key natural inputs and the innovative “Any Time Money (ATM)” model ensuring consistent farm income. Farmer interactions highlighted clear outcomes, improved soil health, enhanced crop quality, and reduced cultivation costs through the shift from chemical-based practices. The delegation appreciated the strength of the structured extension ecosystem and recognized #NaturalFarming as a scalable pathway for resilient agriculture and sustainable livelihoods. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @AndhraPradeshCM @NITIAayog @icarindia #KnowledgeExchange #SustainableAgriculture #GlobalLearning

Following the inaugural interaction, the Nepal delegation continued their exposure visit with a field immersion at Dwaraka Tirumala block, engaging with a robust ecosystem supporting 345 #RythuSadhikaraSamstha functionaries and nearly 59,000 #NaturalFarming farmers. The team also presented their IPAD-supported initiatives, emphasizing knowledge exchange, institutional strengthening, and scalable pathways for sustainable agriculture. During the visit, the delegation interacted with farmer Rams Gopal, a former software engineer who transitioned from organic farming to #NaturalFarming in 2019, focusing on soil health, crop nutrition, and resilience. With guidance from CRPs, he adopted practices such as coconut water spraying , Ipomoea-based crop recovery solutions, PMDS and micronutrient management in lime and coconut systems. Farmers shared their transition from chemical to Natural Farming, achieving improved yields alongside reduced cultivation costs over time. The delegation also engaged with an ICRP practicing Natural Farming in coconut since 2020, demonstrating the effective use of Ghanajeevamrutham, Dhravajivamrutham, and egg amino acid. They further met farmer Bapayya, who is conserving and cultivating diverse indigenous (desi) paddy seed varieties and actively motivating young farmers through hands-on trainings, strengthening community-led seed sovereignty and knowledge transfer. The delegation underscored the critical role of soil health restoration, cost optimization, farmer-led innovations, and strong extension systems in advancing and scaling #NaturalFarming. @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 #KnowledgeExchange #SustainableAgriculture #GlobalLearning

A warm welcome to the Nepal delegation on their exposure visit to #APCNF ! The journey began today with an insightful interaction with @vijaythallam , setting the stage for meaningful learning. Over the next 3 days, the team will engage with our systems, from policy to practice, interacting with experts, field teams, and farmers to gain deep insights into #NaturalFarming. Here’s to knowledge exchange, collaboration, and scaling sustainable agriculture globally! @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 @icarindia @NITIAayog @AgriGoI #KnowledgeExchange #SustainableAgriculture #GlobalLearning