Kuppam Farmer Makes Big Success out of Natural Agriculture Movement
Tirupati: In the heart of Andhra Pradesh, a quiet agricultural revolution is transforming the way farmers cultivate crops. At the forefront of this change is G Krishnamurthy, a farmer from Sigalapalli village in Kuppam mandal of Chittoor district. His journey in sustainable agriculture has been an inspiration for countless others.
Driven by the Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF) programme spearheaded by the state government through Rythu Sadhikara Samstha, Krishnamurthy has been practising natural farming for eight years. His methods — avoiding chemical inputs, embracing soil-friendly techniques and integrating livestock with multi-crop systems — showcase the immense potential of sustainable farming.
His use of bio-stimulants like Ghana Jeevamrutham and Drava Jeevamrutham has not only rejuvenated his farm's soil fertility but also eliminated the need for chemical fertilizers. “Natural inputs make farming both cost-effective and high-yielding,” he says.
Krishnamurthy's chemical-free crops gain popularity for their superior quality and health benefits.
His one-acre farm thrives with five main crops — moringa, banana, papaya, curry leaves, and castor — alongside 20 biodiversity crops and 16 vegetable varieties grown under shade-net farming.
Specialty grains such as black and brown rice add diversity and nutritional value to his produce. His vegetables, leafy greens and other crops are in high demand both locally and in Kuppam market.
Beyond farming, Krishnamurthy runs a non-pesticide management shop in his village to support farmers unable to prepare bio-stimulants, thereby promoting chemical-free agriculture and community health. The shop, which started with an investment of `25,000, has generated `50,000 in revenue till now at the rate of `5,000 per month.
Krishnamurthy supplements his income by raising desi chickens, earning `45,000 annually through poultry farming. Two years ago, he introduced an A-Grade horticulture model with an investment of `30,000, which now generates a steady income of `80,000 per year.
Additionally, his ATM (Any Time Money) model, launched with a modest investment of `8,000, consistently brings in `45,000 per season.
As a trained farmer-scientist under the APCNF programme, Krishnamurthy mentors other farmers, guiding them on sustainable techniques and helping them tackle pest challenges with natural methods. His efforts have earned him recognition as a pioneer of eco-friendly agriculture and he plans to expand further by establishing a one-acre fruit orchard.
“Natural farming is not just sustainable; it’s profitable and essential for protecting our soil and ensuring a healthier future,” Krishnamurthy asserts.
