OPERATIONAL MANUAL ON SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS
OPERATIONAL MANUAL
ON
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS
Contents
Sl. No. Topic
Page
1.0 Introduction : 1
2.0 Background : 2
3.0 Steps to Implement the Five Factors : 8
3.1 In-Situ Water Conservation Infrastructure : 8
3.2 Soil Health : 18
3.3 Ecology : 31
3.4 Indigenous Seeds : 39
3.5 Farm Diversity : 46
4.0 Development of Basic Infrastructure : 68
5.0 Income Statement : 74
6.0 Replication of SAS within the Farmers’ Community : 77
1
1.0 Introduction
This manual has been based on the last ten years of study on sustainable agricultural systems in
India. The first five years of study involved an all-India survey and case studies of different types
of sustainable agricultural systems in India. It also included various rounds of deliberations,
national seminars, and international conferences on sustainability of agriculture.
The second five years of the study included intensive action research on sustainable agricultural
systems. The action research on SAS combines all the five factors viz. water, soil, seed, diversity,
and farm ecology to establish crop–horticulture–livestock-agro forestry combinations to meet
nutritional security of the farmer family.
The purpose of the Sustainable Farming Operational Manual is to help farmers community in
establishing sustainable agricultural practices by using simple and cost-effective farm tools and
techniques.
The first experimental SAS Farm is located at Center for Education, Development &
Communication (CEDEC) in collaboration with NISWASS and XIMB, Bhubaneswar. The model
farm was initiated on 1 hectare land of CEDEC in 2016. After successful trials of sustainable
agricultural practices, this model farm has been replicated in the above three locations. The entire
farm land was divided into farming plots. Each plot is about 2000 square feet. The climate of
Bhubaneswar is classified as Tropical Climate. Initially, the soil of the farm land was heavier and
the farm ecology was lower. After soil testing, organic measures are being undertaken to improve
the soil health. Likewise, plantation activities have been undertaken in and around the farm land
for enhancing farm ecology.
Based on the above model farm, action research on Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS)
supported by DEAR, NABARD was operationalised at three Gram Panchayats of three blocks in
three Districts viz. (1) Liligada GP of Mohana Block in Gajapati District, (2) Nuagada GP of
Padmapur Block in Rayagada District, and (3) Pliheri GP of Daringbadi block in Kandhamal
District.
2
2.0 Background
As part of an action research on ‘sustainable community enterprise system’ supported by DEAR
NABARD and undertaken by the Principal Investigator, it was realized that the FPOs would not
be viable without sustainable production systems at the farmer community level.
During the above action research, it was observed that the increase in net income and wellbeing of
the small producers/farmers in the above producer company was largely dependent on the increase
in efficiency and productivity of agricultural production. In other words, the nature of product
technology and process technology practiced by the smallholder farmers were the keys to
efficiency and sustainability of the producer community and the producer company.
In the above light, a study on agricultural practices of farmers especially the small and marginal
farmers who constitute about 75% of farmers in India would help in better policy making. Based
on the contextual observations from the action research, it was also perceived that natural farming
practices were probably more relevant and efficient for the smallholder farmers. In pursuit to
understand sustainability of agriculture and smallholder farmers, the principal investigator
requested NABARD to support a study of sustainable agriculture system in India. Accordingly, an
‘All India study of Natural Farming’ was undertaken during 2011-13.
Based on the detailed information obtained from the 20 cases of farmers across the country, the
figures on net incomes and cost of production look very promising. These 20 farmers are from
different regions, different ecosystems and with different land holdings. Depending on the
maturity, size, and multiple cropping of the farm, the net income per acre per year is found to be
from 12,000 INR to 172,800 INR. Under sustainable agricultural practice, the net income per acre
increases as the farm become older.
The practice of natural farming or sustainable agriculture is quite promising. Farmers adopting
sustainable agriculture are doing quite well and their net income has been improving as their total
cost of agriculture as percentage of gross income is reducing. It is also interesting to observe that
the mixed cropping reduces the total cost as a percentage of gross income. Further, as the size of
farm increases beyond a point, the total cost as percentage of gross income increases.
Most importantly, the gross expenditure as a percentage of gross income is in favor of the farmers.
The figure varied from 3% to 75% depending on the level of multiple/mixed cropping, size,
maturity of the farm. The analysis of the cases reveals that the percentage of gross expenditure as
3
a percentage of gross income reduces as the farm adopts mixed cropping. Further, with larger size
of the farm, beyond an optimal point, the gross expenditure as percentage of gross income
increases due to increased operation and management cost. Table 1 below provides a summary of
the net incomes to individual farms from their respective farms.
4
Table 1: Farmers practicing Sustainable Agriculture, India
Sl
No
Name of Farmer
State Total
Land
(in acres)
Total Gross
Income per year
(in INR)
Gross Income per
acre per year (in
INR)
Gross
Expenditure per
year (in INR)
Net Income per
Acre per year (in
INR)
Gross Expenditure
as % of Gross
Income
1 Bhaskar Save Gujurat 14 25,00,000 1,70,000 80,000 172857 3
2 Subash Sharma Maharastra 10 14,00,000 1,40,000 8,00,000 60000 57
3 DepakSuchde M.P. 6 6,00,000 1,00,000 96,000 84000 16
4 Tony Thomas Kerala 7 7,00,000 1,00,000 1,25,000 82143 18
5 Joseph Wadaketh Kerala 2.5 3,00,000 1,2 0,000 60,000 96000 20
6 Chandramma A.P. 20 3,50,000 17,500 1,10,000 12000 31
7 Ravjeet Singh Punjab 11 7,15,000 50,000 2,20,000 45000 31
8 Belagola Farm Karnataka 7.28 4,00,000 45,000 3,00,000 13736 75
9 Krushna C. Bebarta Odisha 20 10,00,000 50,000 4,00,000 30000 40
10 Natabar Sarangi Odisha 5 3,00,000 60,000 18,000 56400 6
11 Raju Titus M.P. 13.5 22,00,000 1,63,000 1,80,000 149630 8
12 Sundaraman Tamilnadu 10 4,00,000 40,000 150,000 25000 38
13
Navaneeth
Krishnan Tamilnadu 5.56 6,50,000 1,16,906 3,50,000 53957 54
14 NallaKerai Tamilnadu 0.5 6,00,000 -- 1,70,000 -- 28
15 Raja Murugam Tamilnadu 3.5 3,00,000 85,714 -- -- --
16
Purusotham Rao
farm Karnataka 10 5,00,000 50,000 3,50,000 15000 70
17 Jayant Bharve Maharastra 30 16,00,000 53,333 8,00,000 26667 50
5
18 SAMBHAB Odisha 90 18,00,000 20,000 6,00,000 13333 33
19 Ramesh C.Dagar Haryana 108 150,00,000 1,30,000 105,00,000 41667 70
20
Dr. Mathew
Mathew Kerala 200 118,25,000 98,540 74,70,000
36291 63
6
The baseline study also revealed that the science and practice of sustainable agriculture has been
limited about research and codification. Currently, a few of the leading farmers of sustainable
agriculture have codified some aspects of their respective techniques and practices. These farmers
have been able to demonstrate the agricultural outputs more than systematically explain the
science of it. The processes of sustainable agriculture have not been fully codified such that the
small and marginal farmers could adopt them without hesitation. There have been little public
investments on research for empirical evidences and codification of sustainable agriculture and
hence the tacit and intricate knowledge system of sustainable agriculture has not been popular in
practice. As a result of this lack of scientific study, codification and subsequent training, the
adoption and replication of sustainable agricultural practices are much slower as compared to the
huge potential it offers to mitigate the risks of farmers and the growing demand for safe and
nutritious organic food by the consumers and the producers.
Empirical observations of different practices and literature on sustainable agriculture on
sustainability of agriculture suggest that the basic dimensions to sustainable agriculture include (a)
soil health, (b) seeds, (c) water (moisture) management, (d) mixed cropping for better plant
protection, (e) integration of agriculture to local livestock, (f) converging integrated agriculture to
local ecosystem by agroforestry and social forestry.
Following the all-India baseline survey on natural farming systems; XIMB organized a National
Round Table Discussion on Sustainable Agricultural Systems in XIMB in January 2016. This
RTD reiterated the significance of interconnectedness and inter-dependence of various actors and
actants in agricultural ecosystems. It also felt and sensed the need to emphasize on the general
principles of sustainable agriculture systems than recommend a particular type or nomenclature of
agriculture for long term sustainability of our diverse ecological systems in India. The RTD
brought out the key pillars - Seed, Soil, Moisture, Diversity and Ecology - for building sustainable
agricultural systems.
The RTD also reiterated the critical need for a bottom-up approach for agriculture to be
sustainable; that includes letting farmers choose the kind of agriculture and not heavily
determined by scientists or marketers, type of support that they require, and respect their norms
and language system. It was also pointed out that cluster-community based approach for
sustainable agriculture is a necessity and that the need to include the excluded, poor, and marginal
farmers in agriculture is necessary for making agriculture sustainable.
7
In addition, XIMB hosted the First Symposium on Transition Strategies for Sustainable
Community Systems on 19-20 January 2017 in Bhubaneswar. With SAS as one of the five Tracks,
the plenary session of this Symposium deliberated on the principles of seed, soil, moisture,
diversity, andecology in line with principles of agroecology. The participants also discussed on
the key factors which can enable a small farmer’s agricultural field to become sustainable and the
farming can be viable in short run and sustainable in the long run. Keeping this objective in mind
and spirit, transition strategies related to above principles in agricultural research, practices,
ecosystem services, and policies were discussed in the plenary session.
Prior to the action research project on Sustainable Agricultural Systems (SAS) in the three
locations supported by DEAR-NABARD, the principal investigator had initiated some initiatives
at the community level to experiment with natural farming or organic farming systems. Dr. Om
Prakash Rupela, scientist in Organic Farming, was visited to farmers’ fields located at Nuagada
GP of Padmapur block in Rayagada district in 2011. As an exponent of organic farming, he had
sensitized the farmers in the above GP on the benefits of organic farming. Besides, Prof. K. T.
Chandy had also undertaken field visits to the farmers’ field located in Nuagada GP. He discussed
with farmers on various aspects of cultivation patterns and sensitized the farmers on improving
soil health and organic farming.
Likewise, Shri Subhash Sharma, a progressive farmer from Maharashtra, practicing natural
farming had undertaken field visits to the farmers’ fields located at both Liligada GP in Gajapati
district and Nuagada GP in Rayagada district in 2016. In both the locations, he had interacted with
farmers on various aspects of farming and had sensitized the farmers on Natural Farming.
The formal approval for the action research for sustainable agricultural systems in three locations
in Odisha by DEAR NABARD Mumbai came through in 2018. The five key factors of study
under the action research included the following as indicated in the Chart 1 below:
External Moisture In-Situ
Dead Soil Live
Exotic Seed Indigenous
Low Farm Diversity High
Shallow Farm Ecology Deep
Chart 1: Sustainable Agricultural Systems
8
3.0 Steps to Implement the Five Factors
3.1 In-Situ Water Conservation Infrastructure
Soil moisture is the most important element for the germination plants & crop growth and high
crop yield. Water serves not only as an agent of moisture but regulates the temperature. Specific
amount of water depends upon the climate, topography, vegetation, and hydrological conditions.
The most significant aspect of this action research has been the empirical evidence that it is
possible to make water available to any farmer land irrespective of the topography in areas that
have decent amount of rainfall (above drought conditions). The following measures can be
undertaken tofacilitate water availability on the farm land.
Land levelling and balancing of surface water flow:
Land leveling will be done at the time of preparation of land for the first time by use of leveler
through tractor. It is a onetime investment and use of heavy machine for a long-term usefulness
and minimization of slope in the crop field for smooth water conservation and cropping. The
farmers community can converge with their respective panchayats to mobilize land levelling work
under NREGS for their farm lands.
Image 3.1.1: Land levelling
Source: Action Research on SAS
9
Simple tool like zero level contour markers, that is made up of wood and attached to narrow pipe
(0.02 cm) with clamp and measuring scales, will be used for land levelling activities. The
instrument can be used to measure the ups and downs in a crop field so that micro-locks and
contour can be made accordingly. It will be useful for better conservation of rain water and
optimum utilization of water used for a crop field.
Image 3.1.2: Zero level Contour Markers
Source: Action Research on SAS
Trenches:
Usually, rain water flows over the farm land get wasted. Farmers have no idea how to stop the
rainwater runoff and after rainy season they become dependent upon the external sources for
irrigation. To stop the rainwater runoff, trenching with locks around the farmland is required.
These trenches are a one-time investment in a farm land. 3-4% of the farmland will be used for
excavating the trenches around the farm. Thissystem will conserve rain water of the farm.
Technical Specification:
• The depth and width of the trenches will be 6 feet and 4 feet respectively and the
length of the trench will be 80 feet at a stretch.
• A locking system of 10 feet length, 4 feet width and 1.5 feet depth will be constructed
at an interval of 80 feet. It will be patched by stones and gravels at regular interval. It
will be patched by stones and gravels at regular interval.
10
The overflown water has been stored in the trenches. Trenches can be excavated by using
JCB. Indeed, a lot of soil gets collected with this trenching exercise. The earth material of
these trenches can be put on the farm land to make the extreme slope areas of the
farmland. The maintenance of trenches can be done in every three years.Subsequently,
efforts will be undertaken to link the farmers with NREGS to mobilize trenching work for
their farm lands.
Image 3.1.3: Excavation of Trenches & Locks on the Farm
Source: Action Research on SAS
Lock
Trenc
h
11
Image 3.1.4: Leveling of sloppy areas of farmland with earth material of Trench
Source: Action Research on SAS
Source: Action Research on SAS
Leveling of sloppy areas of farmland
with earth material of Trench
12
Water in trenches around the farm that used to dry up within two hours after the rainfall in Year 1
was retained for five days and gradually seeped in within about eight days after every rainfall in
Year 2 of the action research.
Image 3.1.5: Water holding capacity of Model SAS Farm within 1 Year
Source: Action Research on SAS
Micro Locks:
Micro locks are the locking of the space in ridge and furrow in a field to keep the rain water
locked in a certain height and time period. Micro-locks will be made on the whole farm such that
rainwater could recharge there and then. By this method of micro lock, rain water will penetrate
underground rather than flow away from the field. The overflown water gets stored in the
trenches.
Technical specification: The size of the micro-locks will vary from 4 feet to 12 feet depending on
the level of the land. The micro-locks will be made by using a simple instrument.
13
Image 3.1.6: Micro Locks prepared on the farm land for absorbing Rain Water
Source: Action Research on SAS
Measurement of rainfall:
This will provide the farmer a first-hand knowledge on the amount of rainfall on his farm land.
For this sake, simple tools like a 50-liter bucket and 1-liter bottle are required to measure the rain
water. Farmers are required to record the rainfall data each time it is occurring. Finally, they will
be able calculate the amount of rain water that falls on his/her farm land.
Micro Locks
14
Image 3.1.7: Simple tools to measure the Rainfall
Source: Action Research on SAS
Open Well:
Open well will bedug on the farmer’s land. The sole purpose is to use the water of the open well
to irrigate the crops and plants in the farm. This open well will also help the farmer to check the
current status of underground water of his/her farm land. Inside the open well, farmer can do the
stone bonding/concrete rings to protect the open well. Farmers can mobilise the open well under
schematic provisions available in the concerned line department. However, we observed stone
bonding seems to work better than concrete rings especially with large sized open wells.
15
Image 3.1.8: Open Well
Source: Action Research on SAS
Image 3.1.9: Stone Bonding inside the Open Well
Source: Action Research on SAS
16
Image 3.1.10: Inserting Concrete Rings inside the Open Well for its protection
Source: Action Research on SAS
Installation of solar Pumps:
Energy is required to run the pump sets to lift water from open well. To reduce the dependency of
farmers on conventional energy i.e. electricity required for farming purposes, the priority is given
to renewable energy sources. In this light, solar pumps will be set up in the farmer’s field for
pumping out water from open well to irrigate the farm crops, forest & horticulture plants etc.
Furthermore, the farmers can use this solar energy for household uses like lighting bulbs in nights,
using fan etc. This will minimise the farmer’s expenses on electricity and he/she can utilise this
money for his/her children’s education, health, & hygiene etc.
17
Image 3.1.11: Installation of Solar Pumps
Source: Action Research on SAS
18
3.2 Soil Health
Soil derives its nature and character from the billions of microbes that live and thrive in it.
Disruptions in the ecological relationships and proportional balance among bacteria, viruses,
fungus and insects are promoting pests. Further, application of chemical fertilizers & pesticides
will destroy the soil quality. After land leveling, soil is to be treated with utmost care. The fertility
& nutritional conditions of the soil should be maintained through application of organic manure,
biomass etc. Prior to undertaking the ploughing activities on the farm land, compost/dried cow
dungs are to be spread over the farmland. Then the ploughing of the farm land should be carried
out by bullocks. The soil as far as possible should be made plain and powder type. It is also
advised that the dry weeds are carefully removed from the land at the stage of land preparation.
Image 3.2.1: Application of compost
Source: Action Research on SAS
19
Image 3.2.2: Land ploughing by bullocks
Source: Action Research on SAS
Green Manure:
Green manure plants can be grown on the farm land. Within a span of 6 weeks’ time period, these
plants will be cut and mulched in the soil for improving soil health. This technique sequester
carbon from air and fix it into the soil. This process will increase the organic carbon in soil, fix
atmospheric nitrogen in soil and make soil conducive for life (of microorganisms).
20
Image 3.2.3: Cultivation of Green Manure Plants for Manuring purposes
Source: Action Research on SAS
Sun Hemp Plants
21
Image 3.2.4: Mulching of green Manure
Source: Action Research on SAS
Simultaneously, farmer can sow Dhanicha seeds between the Arhar lanes for improving soil
health. After 6 weeks’ time, the Dhanicha plants need to be cut down and mulched in the soil.
This green manuring activity increases the soil health and help get a bumper crop of arhar (cow
pea) as we found in our experimental farm.
Mulching of Green Manure Plants
22
Image 3.2.5: Mulching of Dhanicha
Source: Action Research on SAS
In addition to the above organic biomass, farm yard manure can be prepared from cow dung and
applied on the farm land to improve soil health.
Farm Yard Manure: The following material will be required for preparation of farm yard
manure-
i. 1 trolley (1000 kg) dried cow dung
ii. 4 Kg Jaggery
Preparation Process:
➢ Spread the above dried cow dung and the height will be 2 feet.
➢ Mix the jaggery with water
➢ Spray the mixture on the dried cow dung bed
➢ Spray water on it and leave it
➢ The jaggery will further decompose the cow dung and destroys the weeds that have
started growing on cow dung
➢ Again spray water on the bed in 2nd month
➢ After 60 days, the farm yard manure will be ready
Mulching of Danicha plants
23
The above farm yard manure is powder type and can be applied on the farm land. If the farmer
does not use this manure for a long period, then it should be covered with dried leaves and water
should be sprayed over it in regular intervals.
Image 3.2.6: Preparation of farm Yard Manure
Source: Action Research on SAS
24
Image 3.2.7: Preparation of farm Yard Manure
Source: Action Research on SAS
Preparation of Microbial rich Solutions: Microbial rich solution is liquid in form. The
application of microbial solutions control pests and also keeps the plant areas clean. The following
material are required for preparation of microbial solutions –
Preparation Process:
• Water – 10 liters
• Cow dung – 1 kg
• Cow Urine – 1 liter
• Black Jaggery – 50 gm
• Mix together Ten (10) liters of Water, One (1) liter of Cow Urine, One (1) kg of Fresh
Cow Dung and Fifty (50) grams of Organic Black Jaggery.
• Keep this solution for three (3) days
• Stir this solution twice or thrice each day – stir twelve (12) times clock wise and twelve
(12) times anti-clock wise on each occasion.
• On the fourth (4th) day, the concentrated solution is ready.
25
Application Process:
Image: Preparation of Microbial Solutions
Image 3.2.8: Preparation of Microbial Solutions
Source: Action Research on SAS
Biomass:
Biomass is used to increase the nutrition of the soil. Biomass is found in the living plants and
biological wastes at farm. Pit is required for biomass preparation. The Pit size is as follows –
Once Pit is ready, then, put all the plant residues and dried leaves and farm wastes in that pit and
apply mixture of jaggery and water on it. Gradually, this jaggery mixture will decompose the
wastes and convert it into biomass. The biomass is to be covered on the farm land where
cultivation is planned. All these measures create conducive condition for the microorganisms to
✓ Length-8 feet
✓ Width-6 feet
✓ Depth-3 feet
Mix 1 liter of the above microbial solution with 10 liters of water of water and apply in crop
beds. This microbial solution acts as an Accelerating Agent for Decomposition by various
beneficial microbes.
26
flourish on the farmland. Through continuous work of microorganisms on the soil, the soil
porosity and quality of soil increases substantially. This condition of soil helps increase water
absorption capacity of the soil during monsoon and will also help increase the ground water level
of the farm land.
Soil Porosity:
Farmers can themselves check the soil porosity of their farm land. It can be checked with the first
rain of the monsoon. For this, they need simple instrument like a digging bar. The farmer has to
dig the holes on his farm land with the help of digging bar. The point upto which the soil with
moisture contents will not come in the digging bar, the farmer should stop digging further. Now
he has to measure the soil with moisture content portions of the digging bar with the help of a
measuring tape. This will provide him basic information whether the porosity level of the soil has
increased or not in comparison to an adjacent land where such farming has not been undertaken in
the previous year.
Increased water holding capacity was noticed from the observations in the experimental plot in
two different ways. First, the soil moisture was found to be at deeper level in the experimental plot
than control plot. Second, water used to dry up within two hours in the trenches around the
experimental plot during the monsoon month of June-July in Year 1; was retained in the trench for
up to five days before gradually seeping down during the same period in Year 2. Please see Photo
set 2 for the visuals of the above two points. Third, with similar amount of rainfall; water in the
open well rose on the experimental plot increased by over eight feet in Year 2.
27
Image 3.2.8: Measuring soil porosity
Source: Action Research on SAS
28
Sketch 3.2.1: In-Situ Water Conservation
Water Absorption Capacity Topography
CONTROL PLOT EXPERIMENTAL PLOT
Source: Action Research on SAS
De-weeding techniques:
Weeds hamper the growth of plants. Farmers can use small tools to remove weeds from the
cultivated plots at its early stage. This is called child weeding. It saves time, energy and money
of the farmer. It is also not advisable to remove weeds completely from the bed as existence of
weeds on the farmer’s land controls nitrogen, oxygen etc. on the bed/field. Weed height should
not be more than plant height.
Soil Testing:
Soil testing should be undertaken at regular interval to test the soil quality. The soil testing can
be undertaken at any Agriculture University in the respective states. Even the farmer can liaise
with Agriculture Officers operating at District and Block level for getting information on soil
testing in their areas. Soil testing will provide basic information on the existing composition of
the soil like Organic carbon, pH, EC, NPK, Calcium, Magnesium, Sulphur, Micronutrients
(copper, Iron, Zinc, Boron), Microbial population, Bulk density, Water holding capacity,
Texture and other key micro-nutrients. Soil testing will show the variations of the above
compositions of thesoil and accordingly, the farmer can take the advice of agriculture
experts/professionals to undertake measures to improve the soil quality of his/her farm land.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Soil
Porosity
29
Prior to undertaking ploughing activities on the farm land, as per the advice of the Officer-In-
Charge of the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry,Orissa University of
Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), the required number soil of samples weretaken from
various cultivable spots in the farm for soil testing. Further, necessary organic measures were
undertaken for improving the soil health. The same approach to contact the local agricultural
university may be followed in respective location of a farmer.
Image 3.2.9: Soil Testing Report of Model Farm, NISWASS, Bhubaneswar
Source: Action Research on SAS
30
Image 3.2.10: Soil Testing Report of Three SAS Farms
Source: Action Research on SAS
31
3.3 Ecology
Ecology refers to Farm forestry around the farm. For agriculture to be sustainable, it needs to ape
the local natural systems that will be balanced and stable over generations. In other words, the
above aspects of soil, seed, moisture and diversity need to be integrated and synthesized with
respective local ecology for long term sustainability of agriculture. The horticultural and forest
species will help pollination in the farm. In the above ecological settings of the farm, bees and
birds will be the key actors in spreading pollination in the farm. This pollination in turn helps in
high yielding of various crops that will be extremely gainful for farmers. The mini-forest around
the farm will not only control temperature on the farm but also protect the farm from high velocity
winds and heat waves. The purpose is to manage climate at a farmers’ micro-farm level.
Image 3.3.1: Farm Ecology
Source: Action Research on SAS
32
Image 3.3.2: Farm Ecology
Source: Action Research on SAS
33
Image 3.3.4: Farm Ecology of Model farm, CEDEC, NISWASS
Source: Action Research on SAS
Different varieties of forest plants are planted around the farm to ensure that there are some
flowers on the farm though out the year. This is to create a natural infrastructure for the honey
bees, butterflies and other smaller species that live above soil to survive with the farm ecology.
The forest plant of different species will be planted on the boundaries of the farmer’s land for
maintaining and balancing farm ecology. As per the Farm Norms, the Table-1 illustrates the
varieties of forest plants that are to be planted around the farm.
Table 3.3.1: Forest Saplings
Canopy: (20%) Acacia Krushna Chuda, Radha Chuda, Sisu, Phasi, Bamboo, Debdaru,
Walnut, Arjun etc.
Mahanima Tree: (40%) Mango, Tamarind, Neem, Ambada, Harida, Jackfruit, Karanja,
Bahada, Dimiri, Jamun, Mahula, Chiku etc.
Sub Tree: (30%) Guava, Drumstick, Bakul, Amla, Chakhunda, Sub-babul, Chandan,
Bela, Cashew etc.
Shrubs: (10%) Kachan, Pomegranti (Dalimba), Kadipatta, Banana, ganga siuli,
Papaya etc.
Source: Action Research on SAS
34
Likewise, the farm norms have also set the heights of the above forest saplings that are to be
planted sequentially. The given Table 2 illustrates the above factors –
Table 3.3.2: Farm Norms
Farm Norms Tree Variety Standard heights Norms for the Farm
50 foot Canopy 114 foot 120 Foot
30 Foot Tree 49 foot – 114 Foot 50 foot – 120 foot
15 foot Sub-tree 20 foot – 49 Foot 20 foot – 50 Foot
5 Foot Shrub Layer 7 Foot – 20 Foot 7 foot – 20 foot
Source: Action Research on SAS
A farmer can reach out to the Department of Forest and Department of Horticulture operating at
state level and then with block level forest office and horticulture office for mobilization of
various species of both forest saplings and horticulture saplings. Again, keeping an eye to the farm
size, estimation can be done regarding the required number of the above saplings and also
mobilized from these local offices. This technique for enhancing the farm ecology has also been
undertaken in all three experimental SAS farms located in three different locations as well as in
the CEDEC SAS Farm in Bhubaneswar. Given below is the plantation sketch of model SAS farm
located at CEDEC.
Table 3.3.3: Forest Plant Species planted around on 1 hectareModel SAS Farm in Year 2
Layer Name
with % Plant Local Name Scientific Name
Total Number of
plant per Mound Average
Canopy
(20%)
Acacia Acacia catechu 50 10
Krushna Chuda Delonix regia 10 1
Radha Chuda Peltophorumpterocarpum 1
Sisu Dalbergia sissoo 50 10
Bamboo Bambusoideae(2 types) 50+2
Debdaru Cedrusdeodara 10 2
Walnut Juglans regia 40 8
Mohagany Honduran mahogany 10 2
Putranjiva Putranjivaroxburghii 10 2
35
Arjun Terminalia arjuna 35 7
Total 215 43
Tree
(40%)
Mahanima Azadirachta Indica 25 5
Patoli Steriospermumcolais 50 10
Tamarind Tamarindusindica 25 5
Neem Azadirachta Indica 50 10
Almond Prunus dulcis 40 8
Jackfruit Artocarpusheterophyllus 10 2
Karanja Pongamiapinnata 50 10
Bahada Terminalia bellirica 50 10
Jamun Syzygiumcumini 10 2
Mahula Madhucalongifolia 2
Chiku Manilkarazapota 4
Total 237 47
Sub Tree
(30%)
Guava Psidium guajava 50 10
Bakul Mimusopselengi 50 10
Amla Phyllanthus emblica 50 10
Chakhunda Senna occidentalis 50 10
Sub-babul Leucaena leucocephala 50
Bela Aegle marmelos 30 6
Kaitha Limoniaacidissima 10 2
Simaruba Simarouba glauca 10 2
Sunari 10 2
Kadamba Neolamarckiacadamba 10 2
Total 320 64
Shrub
(10%)
Kachan Bauhinia acuminata 40 8
Pomegranti
(Dalimba) Punicagranatum 25 5
36
Kadipatta Murrayakoenigii 10 2
Banana Musifera Indica
Flowering plant Cassia nodosa 25 5
Total 100 20
Grand Total 872 174
Source: Action Research on SAS
37
Plantation Diagram 1.5 Foot 1.5 Foot 1.5 Foot
4 Foot
4 Foot
2 Foot
2 Foot
2 Foot
2 Foot
4 Foot
4 Foot
1.5 Foot
1.5 Foot
1.5 Foot
4 Foot
Sketch 3.3.1: Plantation Diagram
Source: Action research on SA
38
Depending on the requirement of individual farm site, plantation of forest plant can be
undertaken. It is designed to create and strengthen the farm ecology in order to establish
biodiversity in and around the farm. It helps in increasing pollination, reduce temperature on the
farm, and check wind speed. All these improve the overall balance and crop yield on the farm.
Image 3.3.3: Plantation of Forest Plants
Source: Action Research on SAS
39
3.4. Indigenous Seeds
To reduce the cost of seed procurement by farmers and make them self-reliant on seeds, the
farmers can be encouraged to use local/indigenous seeds that are genetically stable and suitable
for local micro-climate of the farm. Seeds that are out of circulation in the clusters, those
indigenous seeds from nearby clusters will be collected and sown in the farm; and the best
suitable varieties on the farm will be retained for further multiplication in the local area.
It is not advisable for the farmers to use Hybrid/GM seeds though these variety seeds provide
higher yields. However, there are several issues with these with reference to smallholder farmers.
1. The re-germination of these seeds is much lower and GM seeds are terminator seeds that do not
yield fruits after one crop. 2. These seeds cannot fight with local climatic conditions. 3. These
seeds require application of chemical fertilizers and pesticides that hampers not only the soil
health of the farm land but also has adverse impact on human health, and 4. The cost of these
seeds is high and hence much risk of loss due to weather unreliability due to climate changes. 5.
The overall transaction cost of these seeds is much higher and hence the net profit to the farmer
over a couple cycles becomes less profitable. The local genetically stable seeds are far robust and
remove the weather risk to the smallholder farmer. The productivity of the farmer selected seeds
indeed gives much better yields than the seeds procured from the market.
The harvested seeds will be mixed with ashes or neem powder to protect those from pest attack.
Then these seeds will be stored in the store room. During the seed sowing time, the seeds should
be treated properly to make it disease free. For 10 kg seeds, the following materials are required
for seed treatment –
→ Fresh cow dung – 1 kg
→ Cow urine – ½ liter
→ Forest soil – 1 kg
→ Jaggery – 300 grams
→ Ash – 1 handful
→ Water – 1 liter
40
Process:
The above seed treatment process makes the seeds 90% disease free.
Seed sowing is the most important activity. Germination of seeds requires certain environment
viz. moisture and balanced temperature. Timely seed sowing lead to the better output.
Image 3.4.1: Harvest & Storing of Local Seeds
Source: Action Research on SAS
→ Mix all the above mentioned material well in the 1 liter
water and prepare the semi liquid paste
→ Mix the seeds in that paste well by using two hands
→ Store or dry it in the shade for 2 hours
→ Sow those seeds on the bed.
41
Image 3.4.2: Harvest & Storing of Local Seeds
Source: Action Research on SAS
42
Image 3.4.3: Harvest & Storing of Local Seeds
Source: Action Research on SAS
43
Furthermore, farmers need to set up Seed Banks in their villages so that various indigenous/local
seeds can be preserved for next cycle of cultivation. Farmers can also take these local seeds from
their seed banks.
To promote the importance of local/indigenous seed, Seed Fair can be organized at
GP/Block/District level. This will become helpful for knowledge sharing and exchange among
farmer communities.
Nurseriescan be developed on the farmer’s land to grow indigenous vegetable varieties. To this
effect, Nursery beds can be prepared. The length, width and height of the nursery bed should be 3-
5 meter, 1.5 meter, and 15cm respectively. This removes the water stagnation on the bed during
monsoon. The soil of the nursery beds will be mixed with farmyard manures properly and the soil
of the beds will be levelled. Various local vegetable seeds will be sown on these nursery beds.
After watering, the beds are to be covered with straws/dried leaves to balance the temperature of
the beds. Then the seedling of the nursery beds can be taken to the main farm land for
transplantation. Further, after germination of seeds, the whole nursery beds should be covered
with polypropylene sheets, rather using any locally available natural material to protect them from
extreme temperature as well as from rainfall. It is important to procure seeds of these local variety
vegetables for next cycle.
44
Image 3.4.4: Nursery Beds
Source: Action Research on SAS
45
Image 3.4.5: Nursery Bed
Source: Action Research on SAS
46
3.5 Farm Diversity
Diversity includes not only crop diversity but also integration of horticulture, livestock, medicinal
plants, and general bio-diversity at the farm level. Agriculture is visibly a highly interconnected
and interdependent system of production and its output is a result of deep and dynamics
relationship among various living and non-living organisms in a micro ecosystem. Diversity
indeed is the chant/mantra to sustainability of agriculture and small farmers.
In first year, the farmer could cultivate Arhar and Maize in their farm for improving soil health
that has worked well in our action research.
Image 3.5.1: Arhar & Maize Cultivation
Source: Action Research on SAS
47
Image 3.5.2: Arhar with black gram
Source: Action Research on SAS
Image 3.5.3: Maize cultivation in one patch of the Farm
Source: Action Research on SAS
48
Image 3.5.4: Diversity of the Model SAS Farm, CEDEC, NISWASS
Source: Action Research on SAS
Mixed Farming:
Mixed farming practices can be followed for furthering the soil health. In this category, different
varieties of crops and vegetables like millets, pulses, oil seeds, vegetables etc. will be undertaken
for cultivation. This mixed farming will help the farmer in enhancing the soil fertility of his/her
farm land and can harvest multiple crops and vegetables in the same piece of farm land in a given
time. A farmer may choose the total area where he/she can adopt the mixed farming technique.
This will also foster his economic growth. The detailed seed list of mixed farming is given below
–
49
Table 3.5.1: List of Mixed Farming
Kala (O/S) Ghantia (M) Pumpkin (V)
Jawar (Jana) (M) Dungerani (P) Baelo (P)
Ragi (Mandia) (M) Long Bean (P) Butter-Bean (Simba) (V)
Metenga (P) Sweet Potato (V) Cucumber (V)
Kandula (P) Maize © Brinjal (V)
Kangu (M) Ridge Gourd (V) Bitter Gourd (V)
Suan (M) Bottle Gourd (Lau) (V) Kaunria (V/OS)
Kusula (M)
(M: Millet, O/S: Oil Seed, P: Pulses, V: Vegetables)
Source: Action Research on SAS
Image 3.5.5: Mixed Farming
Source: Action Research on SAS
50
Annual Crop Plan:
Based on the micro climate conditions of the farmer’s farm land, Annual Crop Plan will be
prepared to rotate the crops that will suit respective locations. Given below is the Annual Crop
Plan that was prepared for carrying out agricultural activities in the experimental locations-
Table 3.5.2: Annual Crop Plan
Source: Action Research on SAS
Crop Rotation Plan:
The crop rotation plan will be prepared that engages the farmer in cultivating various crops and
root crops, cereals and pulses, and vegetables and leafy vegetables etc. throughout the year. This
crop diversity will increase the farmer’s annual income. The month wise general crop rotation
plan is indicated in Table 3.1.
Subsequently illustration of different crop plans in four different farm locations where the
experiments were undertaken are presented for better understanding. The four different farms are
located in 4 districts of Odisha viz. Khordha, Gajapati, Rayagada, & Kandhamal. The above farm
sizes are different from each other and so also is the topography.
Kharif
(June-Sept)
Rabi
(Oct-Jan)
Summer
(Feb-May)
Maize + Cow Pea
Vegetables
Toria (Soriso)
Arhar + Ragi
Sesame
Millet(Mixed) Potatoes Sesame
Green (Mixed) Vegetables
Root Crops
51
Table 3.5.3: Crop Rotation Plan
Item
Variety January February March April May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
Cereals
&
Millets Maize Maize Maize Maize Wheat
Sorghum Pearl Millet
Wheat
Pulses
Fenugreek
(Methi) Fenugreek
Black
Gram
Black
Gram Gram Amaranths Amaranths Amaranths
Amaranths Green Gram
Green
Gram
Amaranths
(KhadaSaag
In Local
Language)
Green
Gram Cumin Gram Cumin
Summer
Groundnut
Horse
Gram Black Gram
Horse
Gram Gram Rajma
Rapeseed
Pigeon
Pea
Green
Gram Rapeseed Rapeseed
Rajma
Horse
Gram Rapeseed
Pigeon Pea
Sesame Sesame
Leafy
Abant
Chuka/Green
Sorrel
Abant
Chuka/Green
Sorrel ChavliBhaaj ChavliBhaaj ChavliBhaaj Coriander Coriander
Coriander Coriander Coriander
Green Leaf
Onion Coriander
Green Leaf
Onion
Green
Leaf
Onion
Green Leaf
Onion
Green
Leaf
Onion
Green Leaf
Onion
52
Chakvat Chakvat
Seed
Coriander
Stem/
Flower Brinjal Brinjal Bitter Gourd
Bitter
Gourd
Bottle
Gourd
Bitter
Gourd Tomato Beans Brinjal Bean Brinjal Brinjal
French
Beans Bottle Gourd Bottle Gourd
Bottle
Gourd
Cluster
Bean
Bitter
Gourd Brinjal Cabbage Brinjal Cabbage Cabbage
Musk Melon Cluster Bean Chills Chilies Cowpea
Bottle
Gourd Tomato Cauliflower Cabbage Cauliflower
Cowpea Cluster Bean Chol Bhaji Chilies Valsheng Tomato Cauliflower Ova
Dhemus Cowpea
Cluster
Bean
Shimla
Mirch
Cluster
Bean Valsheng Pea Pea
Muskmelon Dhemus Cowpea Cotton
Pharsalus
Bear Tomato
Okra Okra Okra Okra Kartuli Tomato Tondli
Tondli
(Tendli In
Hindi) Ridge Gourd Pumpkin Okra Valsheng
Tondli
Ridge
Gourd Tondli Pumpkin Valsheng
Shimla
Mirch
Ridge
Gourd
Snake
Gourd
Roots Radish
Sweet
Potato Ginger Ginger Onion Carrot Carrot Carrot
Turmeric
Sweet
Potato Turmeric Onion Onion Radish
Potato Potato
Radish Radish
53
Sugar Beet Sugar Beet
Spice/Oil
Seed Fennel Seed Caster Linseed Linseed Shepu
Spinach Spinach Spinach Spinach Groundnut Shepu
Hing Shepu Shepu Shepu Shepu Shepu Spinach
Mentha Mentha Mentha Shepu Spinach Spinach Spinach
Soya Bean Spinach
Fruit Watermelon Watermelon Watermelon Cucumber Cucumber Cucumber Cucumber
Cucumber
Animal
Feed
Fodder
Maize
Fodder
Maize
Fodder
Sorghum
Fodder
Sorghum
Fodder
Maize
Source: Action Research on SAS
(Adopted from Shri Subhash Sharma, Farmer of Maharashtra)
54
Sketch 3.5.1: Model SAS Farm Sketch, CEDEC-NISWASS, Bhubaneswar
Source: Action Research on SAS
55
The second experimental SAS Farms is located at Liligada GP of Mohana block in Gajapati
district. From climatic point of view, the area is characterized as rainfed area. One side of the farm
area is bounded by small hill that is covered with various forest trees. Rest side of the farm land is
surrounded by neighbours’ farm lands. The soil of the farm land is fertile one and the organic
carbon is high due to existence of hilly forest area. The area of the farm land is about 2 hectares.
For convenience and better management, the whole farm land is divided into several plots for
farming, watering, and de-weeding etc. become convenient. Accordingly, different crops are
cultivated in these farm plots throughout the year. Given below is the farm sketch of Liligada GP.
56
Sketch 3.5.2: SAS Farm Sketch, Liligada
Farmer’s Shed
Open Well
Source: Action Research on
SAS
57
The third experimental SAS farm is located at Nuagada GP of Padmapur block in Rayagada
district. Here, the topography the farm land is good. The public road has also divided the farm
land into two parts. Like Liligada SAS pattern, Farming plots were created and soil testing was
done for further improvisation. Furthermore, plantation activities have been undertaken to
improve the farm ecology.
58
Sketch 3.5.3: Farm Sketch, Nuagada
Cow Shed
Farmer’s Shed
Open Well
Source: Action Research on
SAS
57
The fourth experimental SAS farm is located at Pliheri GP of Daringbadi block in Kandhamal
district. The total farm land is about 2 hectares. Likewise, the whole farm land is divided into
several farming plots. The farm ecology is comparatively lower than that of other two SAS farms.
The soil of the farm land is heavier and red in color. The soil testing was done and various
measures were undertaken to improve the soil health. Besides, consistent efforts are undertaken to
promote plantation in and around the farm for creating farm ecology.
58
Sketch 3.5.4: SAS Farm Sketch, Pliheri GP, Padmapur Block, Kandhamal District
Farmer’s Shed Cow Shed
Drying Yard
Open Well
Source: Action Research on
SAS
59
The intercropping practices enable the roots of the multiple crop plants and horticulture plants
reciprocate with each other. This mechanism also helps in increasing microbial populations in the
soil. One should however need to learn more about inter cropping system, application of spacing
amongst the horticulture plants.
Plantation of Horticulture Plants:
Furthermore, various horticulture plants like litchi, guava, custard apple, coconuts, papaya,
mango, jackfruits, tamarind, sapota, amla, lemon etc. will be planted in and around the farm land
to increase biodiversity. This will also provide economic return to the farmers in the long run.
A series of images are provided to show the plantation of horticultural plants on different farms.
Subsequently, the sketches of different farms along with the horticultural plants are shown for
better understanding and application of the same in any farm settings.
Image 3.5.6: Guava Plantation
Source: Action Research on SAS
60
Image 3.5.7: Mango Plantation
Source: Action Research on SAS
Image: Papaya Plot with Bee Keeping
Source: Action Research on SAS
Image 3.5.8: Bee keeping
Source: Action Research on SAS
Bee Keeping
61
Image 3.5.9: Banana Plantation
Source: Action Research on SAS
62
Banana Banana Banana Banana
B
C
Dalimba
Plot - F
Mango Mango
Mango
Guava Amla Lemon Sapota Plot - E
Plot - C
Sapota Guava Litchi
Lemon litchi Amla Custard Apple
Sapota Guava litchi
Dalimba Sapota
Mango Mango
Amla
Sapota
Custard Apple
Guava
Sapota Litchi
jackfruit
Jackfruit
Sapota
Mango Guava Lemon Sapota Mango Litchi Guava Amla Litchi Sapota C.Apple
Mango Mango Litchi Guava Lemon Guava Lemon Sapota
Litchi C.Apple
Mango
Amla
Guava Lemon Lichi Dalimba C.Apple Sapota Lemon Amla
Lemon
Mango Sapota Mango Litchi Lemon C.Apple Sapeta
Amla Sapota Lemon Guava Pomegranate
Mango Lichi Mango Litchi Sapota Amla Mango
Liligada GP, Mohana Block, Gajapati District
W
Sapota
Lemon Litchi Guava
Mango
Mango
Guava
Plot - A
Plot - D
Plot - B
C.Apple
Pomegranate
Banana Banana Banana Banana
Banana Banana Banana Banana
Banana Banana Banana Banana
Sketch 3.5.5: Plantation Sketch of SAS Farm, Liligada GP, Gajapati District
Source: Action Research on SAS
63
Sketch 3.5.6: Plantation Sketch of SAS Farm, Nuagada GP, Rayagada District
Source: Action Research on SAS
Lichi Lichi Litchi
6 Pomegranate
Coconut Coconut Amla Amla Drumstick CA CA Guava Custard Apple Sapeta Sapeta Lemon Lemon Drumstick
Amla Amla 5 Pomegranate Litchi Amla Lemon CApple Guava Litchi Sapota
4 Sapota Amla CApple DS Litchi
Litchi
3 C.Apple Guava Litchi Amla
2 Guava
Amla Guava Lichi
Guava Mango Coconut Coconut 1 Drumstick Guava Coconut Coconut 15ft Mango 60ft Jackfruit 60ft Tamarind 60 ft Mango 60 ft Jackfruit 15 ft
Pomegranate
Lichi
Lichi
Guava
Sapota
C.Apple C.Apple
Coconut Coconut
Lichi
JF
Jackfruit
Mango Tamarind Jackfruit Mango
Jackfruit Tamarind Mango Jackfruit Mango
Sapeta Jackfruit Tamarind Mango Jackfruit Mango
Jackfruit Tamarind Jackfruit Mango
Coconut
Sapeta
Lemon C.Apple
Sapota
Jackfruit
Coconut
Amla
Lemon
Pomegranate a
Mango
JF
Jackfruit Tamarind Mango Jackfruit Mango
Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana
Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana
Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana
Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana
Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana
Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana
Amla
Jackfruit Mango Mango Mango Coconut Mango Mango Mango Mango Mango Mango
Sapeta
70 ft 70 ft 70 ft 70 ft
C. Apple
Lichi Pomegra
nate C.Apple
lichi Guava Lemon
Mango Mango
Saptea
Guava Drumstick
Lemon Lichi
Mango
Mango Mango
Mango Mango
Sapota
Mango
Jackfruit Lemon
C.Apple
Litchi
Guava Mango
Mango
Coconut
Mango Mango
C.Apple
Amla
Mango
Guava
Drumstick
Mango
Lemon Litchi
Guava
Mango
Road
Nuagada GP, Padmapur Block, Rayagada District
Mango to Mango distance is 70 ft.
Mang
o to M
ango
dista
nce is
40 ft.
Mango to Mango distance is 50 ft.
64
Lemon Mango Coconut Guava Amla
K E C.Apple Lemon Guava Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Litchi Sapota Sapota Jackfruit Amla Guava Banana Banana Banana Banana
Guava J Litchi Pomegranate Amla Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana D
Litchi Gva C.apple Amla Lemon Sapota Guava Amla
I C.A. Sapota Guava lemon Pomegranate
Guava Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Sapota Pomegranate Mango Litchi C
H Spt Gv lemon C. Apple
Tamarind Guava C.A. Guava Lemon Litchi Guava Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana Banana B Guava Mango Pomegranate Lemon Litchi Amla Tamarind Mango Litchi Sapota Guava Amla G Sapota Litchi 5 ft 50ft 50 ft 50 ft 5 ft
Banana Banana Banana Banana
Sapota C.A. Guava Pomegranate Coconut Amla Sapota Amla F A Sapota Sapota C. Apple Amla Litchi
Coconut Coconut
C.A.
Guava
Litchi
Spta
Guava
Lmn
Sapota Pomgrnte Lemon
litchi
Custard Apple (C.A.) Amla
Guava
Amla
Pomegranate
C.A. Sapota
Litchi C.A.
Amla
lichi Guava Sapota Lemon
Lemon Guava C.A.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate
Pomegranate
Sapota
Lemon
Pomegranate
Amla
Amla Pomegranate
Guava Mango
Sapota
C. Apple
Litchi
Guava
Lemon Sapota Guava Mango
Pomegranate
Mango
Mango
Tamarind
lichi Pomegranate Sapeta
Custard Apple
Lemon litchi Amla Sapota
Lichi Tamarind
Litchi Sapota Pomegranate Mango
Guava Custard Apple Litchi
Lemon Amla
Jackfruit
Jackfruit
Sapota
Guava
Amla Coconut
Pliheri GP, Daringbadi Block, Kandhamal District
W
Mango Pomgrntf
Sketch 3.5.7: Plantation Sketch of SAS Farm, Pliheri GP, Kandhamal District
Source: Action Research on SAS
65
Integration of Livestock:
To increase the farmer’s net income, livestock i.e. cows and calves, poultry, goatery, and
duckerycan be integrated with the farming practices. Rearing of domestic animals at farm level
will help farmers accruing multiple benefits like-
• Cow dung & cow urine and execrate of other domestic animals can be used as organic manure
• Application of this organic manure will enhance the soil health and microbial population in
farmer’s farm land
• Additional income can be generated by selling milk and various milk related produces viz.
cheese, ghee, paneer etc, and also from selling eggs, chickens and goats.
• Practicing of bee keeping at farm level will also help farmer earn extra income by selling
honey in the local market.
Image 3.5.10: Integration of Livestock
Source: Action Research on SAS
66
Image 3.5.11: Integration of Poultry
Source: Action Research on SAS
67
Image 3.5.12: Integration of Goatery
Source: Action Research on SAS
68
4.0 Development of basic Infrastructures:
From operational point of view, there is the need to develop basic infrastructures on the farm. The
following basic infrastructures will be developed on the farmer’s lands–
4.1 Fencing:
Many times, the field crops are damaged by the both domestic and jungle animals as the farm land
has no fencing around it. To protect the farm crop from animal attacks, fencing will be done
around the farm land. Fencing material can be barbed wires, wire meshes, PVC coated weld wires
etc. Farmers can use any type of the above fencing material according to their financial
conditions. Even, locally available natural resources like, wood buttons, bamboo etc. can also be
utilised for fencing work around the farm land.
Image 4.1.1: Fencing
Source: Action Research on SAS
69
Image 4.1.2: Fencing
Source: Action Research on SAS
Source: Action Research on SAS
4.2 Construction of Cattle Shed:
Domestic animals like cows and calves, poultry, goatery, and duckery will be reared in the farm to
foster the farmer’s economic growth. On this ground, there is the need of constructing cattle sheds
on the farm so that these domestic animals will be reared safely. Further it will be easier to collect
cow dung and cow unrine from one place for preparing organic manure. The design of the catttle
shed may vary from place to place. It can be brick and cement structure with tin roof/mud house
with thatched roof. This cattle shed will provide protection to the domestic animals of the farm
from extreme hot during summer, from heavy rain during monsoon and severe cold during
winter. More particularly hens and goats will remain safe inside the cattle shed from the attacks of
jungli animals. The cattle shed should be constructed near the farmer’s shed so that the farmer can
keep vigilant eye on these livestock.
70
Image 4.2.1: Cattle Shed
Source: Action Research on SAS
4.3 Basic Infrastructure to collect Cow & Cattle Urine:
Application of organic manure is the most important activity for improving soil health as well as
increasing the farm productivity. The need the hour is collect cow dung and cow urine for
preparing compost and microbial fluid. Cow dung is to be collected from the cattle shed and put
on the specified area of the farm for composting. Simultaneously, provisions will be made for
collecting cow urine. Simple basic infrastructures like medium size tank will be erected adjacent
to the cattle shed to collect cow urine. Cemented Channels will be routed from cattle shed to urine
tank for smooth flow of cow urine into the tank. The above cow urine will be further utilized for
preparation of microbial solutions – an organic solution. Besides, one fodder plate will be erected
in the cattle shed to put fodder for the cows and calves.
71
Image 4.3.1: Basic Infrastructure to collect Cow & Cattle Urine
Source: Action Research on SAS
Chanel to collect cow & cattle urine
Urine Tank
Fodder Plate
72
4.4 Construction of Drying Yard:
A small drying yard needs to be constructed on the farmer’s land. The drying yard will be used for
cleaning, sorting, grading, & packing of crops. It will be used for drying of crops for seed
purposes. It can be used as a platform for organising meetings and trainings for farmers. Drying
Yard can be constructed under NREGS. The size of the drying yard may vary from farm to farm
but the ideal size is 30’ x 30’ and the height of the drying yard may range from 1.5 feet to 2 feet.
Image 5.6.4.1: Drying Yard
Source: Action Research on SAS
73
4.5 Construction of Farmer’s Shed:
A farmer’s shed need to be gradually constructed on his/her farm land. While this is most
essential, he/she can work systematically on building the other natural and physical infrastructure
before he/she set up a good living place for his/her family on the Farm. He/she can then be able to
do well all his work on the farm; watch & ward purposes, storing crops, seeds, farm tools &
machineries. The farmer’s shed can be a CC roof house/Asbestos house/Thatched house. It
depends upon the financial conditions of the farmer. Even a mud and thatched shed will serve the
purpose. He/she can beautify the shed by using colours. The ideal size of the farmer’s shed is as
follow-
Image 4.5.1: Farmer’s Shed
Source: Action Research on SAS
Foundation – 25 x 6
Width – 20 x 6
Bed room – 11 x 10 / 10 x 3
Kitchen – 10 x 2 / 6 x 4
Store room – 6 / 6 x 4
Latrine room – 7 x 7 / 6
Veranda – 6 x 6
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5.0 Income Statement
Income of farmers from across the country, adopting different methods of sustainable agriculture
was presented in the introductory section of this manual. All of them are doing well and off course
they have in their practice for much longer time. In our action research our hypothesis was that a
famer family can earn a gross income of INR 40,000 per month. Other than supplementing some
cattle feed for cows on the farm, there is no external inputs to the farm; most of the above income
can be the earning for the farmer and his/her family. In our first trial SAS Farm, this hypothesis
has been proven. Indeed, it has been observed that it is possible to enhance this gross income to
about 50,000 per month per hectare. Given below are the incomes of different SAS farms at
different stages of maturity.
SAS Farm, CEDEC, Bhubaneswar
The gross income in year 1 of the experiment was INR 198,000 and it expected to reach INR
350,000 in the second year. From Year 3 onwards the expected income is INR 500,000 or more
per hectare per year.
Table 5.1: Production of variety of agriculture and allied produce from 1 hectare Model SASFarm
& Income in 1st Year of Intervention1st June 2016 - 31st May, 2017
Sl.No Item Quantity Unit of Measure INR
1 Banana 135.00 Pcs 515.00
2 Brinjal 157.30 kg 4,800.00
3 Brinjal Seedling 8.00 pc 40.00
4 Corn 369.00 pc 2,300.00
5 Corn Seed 400.00 pkd 4,000.00
6 Cucumber 4.00 kg 101.00
7 Dhania Leaves 232.00 bundle 1,160.00
8 Dhania Seeds 5.00 bundle 50.00
9 Green Harad 1.00 kg 40.00
10 Kosala Saga 36.00 bundle 180.00
11 Harad Dal 1,267.00 kg 101,450.00
12 Honey 2.25 kg 675.00
13 Jack Fruit 18.00 pc 540.00
14 Karela( Bitter Gourd) 8.95 kg 378.00
15 Mango 12.00 kg 200.00
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16 Mango Jam 26.00 kg 3,760.00
17 Mango Squash 43.00 kg 6,750.00
18 Mango Pickle 10.20 kg 1,370.00
19 Methi Saga 134.00 bundle 670.00
20 Methi Seed 6.00 pkd 60.00
21 Papaya 6.90 kg 136.00
22 Pumkin 1,000.00 kg 15,000.00
23 Pumkin Flower 3.00 bundle 30.00
24 Tomato 340.00 kg 6,960.00
25 Tomato Seedling 16.00 Pc 75.00
26 Tomato Souce 30.00 kg 6,050.00
27 Turmeric 1.75 kg 140.00
28 Lady Finger (
Bhendi)
26.15 kg 773.00
29 Maize 500.00 pc 2,500.00
29 Milk
37,480.00
TOTAL
198,183.00
Source: Action Research on SAS
Table 5.2: Production of variety of agriculture and allied produce from 1 hectare Model SASFarm
& Income during the period January-December 2020
Source: Action Research on SAS
The hypothesis that the gross income to a farmer family on a one hectare land can be INR 40,000
per month has been achieved in the above farm. It has taken about 5 years to initiate, experiment,
and stabilize here. However, on an actual smallholder farmer situation, it would take lesser time.
5.1 Given below is the Comparative Tally on harvested agricultural products for the three
SASTrial Farms located at Liligada GP, Gajapati district, Nuagada GP Rayagada district,
&Pliheri GP, Kandhamal district. The results in terms of production in different sites of the
action research in year 2 are given below. The situation has already improved in year 3.
Income from Vegetable (in Rs.) Income from Milk (in Rs.) Total (in Rs.)
38,414 3,31,470 3,69,884
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With better diversity and integration, the income would gradually touch to the income in the
first experimental farm in CEDEC, Bhubaneswar.
Table 5.3: Comparative Tally of harvested agricultural products of SAS Farm
Items Liligada GP Nuagada GP Pliheri GP
Arhar 55 kg 61 kg 20 kg
Big Kandula 5 kg xx 1 kg
Maize 55 kg 10 kg 137 kg
Ragi 2.2 kg 2 kg 47 kg
Kuenri 0.5 kg 3 kg 92 kg
Dungerani xx 21.5 kg 23 kg
Janha xx xx 23 kg
Sun Hemp 3.2 kg xx 18 kg
Dhanicha 100 gm xx 14 kg
Chia 80 gm 700 gm 50 gm
Yam 60 41 29
Potato 110 120 100
Onion (Small) 8 15 13
Tapioca 29kg 500gm 10 kg Not harvested
Elephant Yam/Telinga
Potato
10 kg 5 kg xx
Potato 30 kg 97 kg 55 kg
Onion 20 kg 27 kg 20 kg
Cowpea 4 kg 400 gm 4 kg 2.5 kg
Beans xx xx 1 kg
Ladies Finger 1.5 kg 64 kg 750gm 3 kg
Peas xx xx 2 kg
Yam 60 kg 41 kg 29 kg
Elephant Yam 6 kg 250 gm 2 kg xx
Gourd 1 kg xx xx
Radish 2.5kg 3 kg 50kg
Brinjal 1 kg 300 gm 30 kg xx
White potato xx 0.5 kg xx
Lemon xx 1297 pieces Xx
Source: SAS Trial Farms
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6.0 Replication of SAS within the Farmer’ Community
The farmer adopting SAS that balances all the five factors can become the training centre for
other farmers in their respective local community / GP. The images below show some of the
training programmes undertaken at the three sites of the SAS Farm sites.
Image 6.1: Farmers of Pliheri GP with late Shri Deepak Suchde
Source: SAS Trial Farms
78
Image 6.2: Farmers with Shri Subhash Sharma & Shri Bharat Bhushan Tyagi
Source: SAS Trial Farms
79
Image 6.3.:Training of SAS with other Farmers
Image 6.4: Training Session in Progress
Source: SAS Trial Farms
80
Image 6.5: DDM, NABARD Khandahmal & AGM, NABARD Bhubaneswar RO at the SAS-FPO
Training to motivate & guide the local cluster level Farmers
Source: SAS Trial Farms