“Journey to the Heart of Organic Farming”

WHAT IS ORGANIC FARMING:

Organic farming is a method of agriculture that avoids synthetic chemicals,
using natural alternatives like compost and manure. In India, this practice is
growing due to its health and environmental benefits. States like Sikkim have
embraced organic farming, setting an example for others. Organic farming
supports biodiversity and sustainability, helping maintain soil health and
reduce carbon footprints. With increasing consumer demand for organic
products, this method promises a healthier future for both people and the
planet.

TYPES OF ORGANIC FARMING IN INDIA:

In India, several types of organic farming are practiced to promote sustainable
agriculture and environmental health:
1. **Integrated Organic Farming**: This method combines organic and
conventional farming techniques, using natural fertilizers and pest control while
occasionally incorporating minimal synthetic inputs.
2. **Pure Organic Farming**: This approach strictly avoids all synthetic
chemicals, relying solely on natural inputs like green manures, compost, and
bio-pesticides.
3. **Agroforestry**: Integrating trees and shrubs into crop and livestock
systems to enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and provide additional
income sources.
4. **Crop Rotation**: Rotating different crops in the same area to improve soil
fertility and reduce pest and disease problems.
5. **Mixed Cropping**: Growing two or more crops simultaneously on the
same land to optimize the use of resources and reduce the risk of crop failure.
6. **Vermiculture**: Using earthworms to decompose organic waste,
producing nutrient-rich vermicompost for crops.
7. **Water Conservation Techniques**: Implementing methods like rainwater
harvesting and drip irrigation to efficiently use water resources.

IMPORTANCE OF AGRICULTURE:
Agriculture is the source of food, feed, and fibre that feeds us, puts clothes on
our backs, provides lumber for our houses, and organic things that grow in the
soil or some substitute for it. Animal husbandry is also part of the process that
grows the meat, milk, and eggs we eat and the wool we wear. There is a lot
of importance of agriculture in the national economy. Agriculture is very
important to any nation simply because it does several things. Firstly, it acts as
a foreign exchange for a country. The exports of agricultural products achieve
this. Another role of agriculture is to act as a ready market to the industries.
This is done when the pieces of equipment are purchased from the industries
hence contributing to the development of such a nation. The main objective of
agriculture is to produce food for the country’s members, Though several
things affect the agricultural sector.

INTRODUCTION ABOUT THE FARM OWNER:

After retirement, Manoharan started training other farmers with the goal of
organic farming. His farm has more than 70 types of trees, and he himself
makes organic fertilizers and herbal pesticides. Also, through his organization,
he is helping many farmers get rid of chemical farming. Served in the Tamil
Nadu Police Department for 36 years. After fulfilling his duty to the country as a
police officer, Manoharan is now engaged in another campaign and that is to
take people towards organic and natural farming.

FARMING TRIP TAKEN FROM OUR SCHOOL:

The trip started by 9:30 and we were taken to an farm of our friend. the trip
thought us many things and we got an new experience regarding farming and
agriculture. they welcomed us with welcome drink and we ate our lunch with
nature. The meal tasted good than before. From this trip we learned about
different types of farming and plants and trees.

Key Practices in Sustainable Agriculture:

1. **Crop Rotation**: Alternating crops in the same area in sequential seasons
to improve soil fertility and reduce pest and disease cycles. For example,
rotating leguminous crops like beans with cereals like wheat helps restore
nitrogen in the soil.
2. **Agroforestry**: Integrating trees and shrubs into crop and livestock
systems. This practice enhances biodiversity, improves soil health
3. **Organic Farming**: Avoiding synthetic chemicals, using natural fertilizers
like compost and green manure, and employing biological pest control
methods. Organic farming supports healthy soils and ecosystems.
4. **Conservation Tillage**: Reducing the frequency and intensity of tillage to
minimize soil erosion and retain moisture. Techniques like no-till farming help
maintain soil structure and organic matter.
5. **Integrated Pest Management (IPM)**: Combining biological, cultural,
mechanical, and chemical tools to manage pests in an economically and
ecologically sound manner. IPM reduces reliance on chemical pesticides and
promotes natural pest control.
6. **Water Conservation**: Implementing efficient irrigation methods such as
drip or sprinkler systems, and rainwater harvesting to optimize water use and
reduce wastage.
7. **Cover Cropping**: Planting cover crops like clover or rye during off-
seasons to prevent soil erosion, improve soil fertility, and suppress weeds.
8. **Biodiversity**: Encouraging a variety of crops and livestock to create a
resilient farming system that can better withstand pests, diseases, and
environmental changes.

Benefits of Sustainable Agriculture:

- **Environmental Protection**: Reduces pollution, conserves water, improves
soil health, and enhances biodiversity.
- **Economic Viability**: Lowers input costs, improves yields over time, and
opens up new markets for organic and sustainably produced products.
- **Social Responsibility**: Supports local communities, provides healthy food
options, and promotes fair labor practices.
Sustainable agricultural practices are essential for ensuring food security,
protecting the environment, and supporting rural livelihoods. By adopting
these practices, farmers can contribute to a healthier planet and a more
resilient agricultural system.

TREES AVAILABLE IN THAT FARM:

🌿villa tree🌿butter tree🌿maha vilvam🌿fig🌿broad beans🌿 Mango 🌿 Bullet wood
🌿 Poamboo 🌿 Pink custard apple 🌿 Ash guard 🌿 Snake guard 🌿 Mundi flowers 🌿
Nuna 🌿 Purasu tree 🌿 Mul ilava 🌿 Rambutan 🌿 Syrissa tree 🌿 Soursop fruit 🌿
Malabar nut 🌿 Jamun tree 🌿 Amla tree 🌿 Lemon grass 🌿 Pomegranate tree 🌿
Chapota tree 🌿 Narthangai tree 🌿 Custard tree 🌿 Omovall 🌿 Papaya tree 🌿
Kidney bean 🌿 Nedamarckla cadania 🌿 Jack fruit tree 🌿 Guava 🌿 Calabash trees
🌿 Vaval tree 🌿 Pencil tree (or fire stick) 🌿 Red sandalwood 🌿 Yellow custard
apple 🌿 Star fruit 🌿 Teak 🌿 Apple 🌿 Ebony tree 🌿 Palm tree 🌿 Drumstick tree 🌿
Mountain fig 🌿 Sandal tree 🌿 Bottle guard 🌿 Manila tamarind 🌿 Swing tree 🌿
Banana tree 🌿 Avocado.
JAMUN TREE:

The Jamun tree, also known as Syzygium cumini or Java plum, is a tall tropical
evergreen that can live for over a century. It features glossy leaves, white
flowers, and deep purple or black fruit that is both nutritious and tasty. The
fruit, seeds, and bark have medicinal properties, especially for treating
diabetes. Rich in vitamins and minerals, the Jamun fruit is used in various
culinary dishes. The tree supports biodiversity, aids in soil health, and provides
water-resistant wood for furniture and construction.
GAUVA TREE:
The Guava tree, scientifically known as Psidium guajava, is a tropical evergreen
belonging to the Myrtaceae family. Native to Mexico, Central America, the
Caribbean, and northern South America, it thrives in tropical and subtropical
regions worldwide. The tree features smooth, greenish-brown bark and
aromatic, elliptical leaves. Guava trees produce white flowers and round to
pear-shaped fruits that can be white, pink, yellow, or red3. These fruits are rich
in vitamins A, B, and C, and are commonly eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies,
and desserts. Guava trees are frost-sensitive but can grow up to 20 feet tall and
bear fruit for many years with proper care.
AMLA TREE:

The Amla tree, also known as Indian Gooseberry or Emblica officinalis, is a

small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to India and other parts of
Southeast Asia. It typically grows to a height of 1-8 meters (3-26 feet) and has a
crooked trunk with greyish-green bark that peels off in flakes. The leaves are
simple, subsessile, and closely set along the branchlets, resembling pinnate
leaves. The tree produces greenish-yellow flowers and nearly spherical fruits
that are light greenish-yellow with six vertical stripes.Amla fruits are known for
their high vitamin C content and are often used in traditional medicine for their
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
AVACADO TREE:

The avocado tree (Persea americana) is an evergreen native to the Americas

that can grow up to 60 feet tall. It features thick, dark green leaves and small
greenish-yellow flowers. The fruit, often referred to as an alligator pear due to
its shape and skin texture, is known for its creamy, buttery flesh that is rich in
healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Avocado trees thrive in tropical and
Mediterranean climates, requiring plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.
They are partially self-pollinating but are commonly propagated through
grafting to ensure consistent fruit quality. The avocado is highly versatile in
culinary uses, from guacamole to salads and smoothies, and is prized for its
nutritional benefits, including high levels of potassium and monounsaturated
fats, making it a favorite among health enthusiasts.
SANDAL TREE:

The Sandalwood tree, scientifically known as Santalum album, is a small

evergreen tree native to India and parts of Southeast Asia. It is renowned for its
fragrant heartwood, which contains essential oils that give it a distinctive
aroma. These oils are highly valued in perfumes, cosmetics, and traditional
medicines. The tree has leathery leaves, fragrant white flowers, and is partially
parasitic, relying on the roots of other plants for nutrients. Sandalwood trees
are slow-growing and can take many years to produce heartwood of sufficient
quality for harvesting. Due to over-harvesting, some species are now
endangered.
CONCLUTION:

Our school visit to the organic farm was an educational and delightful
experience. Students had the opportunity to learn about sustainable farming
practices, observe the cultivation of organic fruits and vegetables, and
understand the importance of eco-friendly agriculture. The interactive sessions,
such as planting seeds and feeding animals, made the visit engaging and
memorable. Overall, the trip highlighted the benefits of organic farming and
encouraged a deeper appreciation for nature and healthy eating habits.