Techie embraces organic farming to promote health, sustainability

In interaction with J. Trinadha Srinivas Hinduin Vijayawada. | Photo Courtesy: GN Rao

Alarmed by reports of food contamination caused by agrochemicals, 52-year-old software engineer Jujjavarpu Trinadha Srinivas has embraced organic farming to promote health.

In 2011, he lost his father to colon cancer. “I spoke to medical experts and did a lot of research on the disease and found out that eating contaminated food increases the risk of stomach cancer,” he says, adding that despite his father being a teetotaler, he still needs to work as a forestry contractor. He frequently eats out, “which may have contributed to the development of colon cancer.”

“My father’s death awakened me to the adverse effects of agrochemicals on a large population suffering from various diseases and I gave up the use of chemical pesticides in my farm and started organic farming on the 8 acres of land I inherited from my father. And father-in-law,” he says.

Although some family members and relatives warned him about the risks, he went ahead with his plan. After facing the challenges of the initial four years, the soil became suitable for organic farming and then there was no turning back.

“I also have a deep affection for the desi cow. I don’t just see them as livestock, but as gentle, nurturing creatures as an integral part of sustainable farming and rural life,” he informs. He started with two cows, but now has 15.

Every weekend, the software engineer goes for a dip in the organically farmed lake at his farm in Sameesragudem village in East Godavari district’s Nidadavolu mandal. He prepares such a natural mixture JivamrutamA nutrient-rich blend that enriches soil and strengthens crops without harming the environment.

He says, ‘Mixing dung, urine, jaggery, gram and soil from the farm is both therapeutic and purposeful.

When time permits, he also rolls up his sleeves and engages in farm work, be it sowing seeds, weeding or raising crops. “The feel of the earth in my hands and the sense of connection with the land revitalizes me,” he says.

At his farm, Mr. Trinadh cultivates organic rice varieties known for their medicinal properties and cultural importance. Among them are Navara, known for its therapeutic benefits in Ayurveda, Chak-hao, Manipur’s aromatic black rice celebrated for its rich antioxidants, Dudheshwar, an aromatic variety with excellent digestive properties and Govinda Bhog celebrated for its divine fragrance and delicate texture.

He also grows the soft and fragrant rice Kala Joha of Assam and Kala Namak Kiran of Uttar Pradesh, the rare and tasty variety Khetri Maharaj of Odisha, Nepali Chakua and ‘Mapillai Samba’ of Tamil Nadu, which is believed to increase strength. and vitality.

The danger of fake products

Mr. Trinadh says that counterfeiting of organic products in the market is a significant threat, making it difficult for the average consumer to distinguish between genuine and fake. “This not only undermines trust in organic farming but also discourages farmers from adopting sustainable practices,” he says with concern, stressing more awareness efforts to educate consumers to identify authentic organic products.

Governments should lead this initiative, including certification, labeling standards, and public access campaigns. “To encourage the development of organic farming, subsidies and incentives should be extended to farmers who adopt these practices,” he says.