Food Security Program
1,000 farmers trained on organic farming methods
Scope and Impact
We enable smallholder farmers to sustainably increase their productivity in an environmentally sustainable way.
Like Veeraswamy, more than 1,000 farmers have been trained in organic farming methods and supported in making the shift.
Our trainings and conventions are a great platform for farmers searching for alternative ways to increase crop production and to maximize their investment. They provide an opportunity for farmers and organic farming experts alike to share knowledge. The farmers have become an example to follow in their villages. Furthermore, their products are in high demand and sell at a higher price than those grown using pesticides. After witnessing the success of some of the program’s components, the state of Telangana is now replicating it on a large scale.
How real people are making a real difference in our Food Security Program
The story of T. Harish Rao, the Minister of Finance of the Telangana State in India
T. Harish Rao heard about SOPAR-Bala Vikasa’s work when he started out as a politician some years ago. He witnessed the positive and sustainable impacts of our programs. And so, he made sure the villagers from his constituency could benefit from our programs.
“Nowadays, smallholder farmers across India have to deal with many obstacles. SOPAR-Bala Vikasa’s Food Security Program is highly relevant, impressive and impactful. My government has put in place many development schemes for rural communities, but they have limited success. We are inspired by SOPAR-Bala Vikasa’s people-centered approach and the way they give ownership to the communities creating high impact and project sustainability.”
The story of an Indian farmer who turned to organic farming and increased his income
Veeraswamy has been a farmer all is life. He cultivates rice, beans and vegetables. His produce is his only family income.
“These are hard times for farmers. Most of us borrow money to be able to buy pesticides and fertilizers, but we rarely benefit from our investment. A few years back, SOPAR-Bala Vikasa trained us on organic methods. We were sceptical at the beginning and only a few of us tried it out. I, like many other farmers in my village, have since then shifted to these new techniques because they bring very good results. I prepare my own pesticides from natural local ingredients. By doing so, I have reduced my investment by 80%. Added to this, I can sell my products at a premium price because people recognize the extra value of our crops.”