Choosing the Soil Over Steel Mandar Deshpande, a mechanical engineer by training, made a transformative decision to leave behind a conventional career and embrace organic farming in Wardha, Maharashtra. His journey is rooted in a desire for a stress-free, environmentally conscious life, one that prioritizes well-being, sustainability, and community over profit. Living by Choice, Not…
In the year 2042, the Indian heartland was a land of yellow and golden maize, stretching as far as the eye could see, waving in the hot wind like a uniformed army. But beneath the surface, the soil was tired, the rivers ran thin, and the people who once danced to the rhythms of their…
In the heart of rural Maharashtra, a quiet revolution is unfolding, one that promises to reshape the future of Indian agriculture. The Krushak Swaraj Farmer Producer Company, based in the Rajura region, has emerged as a beacon of hope and innovation for small and marginal farmers, offering a replicable model for sustainable, profitable, and organized…
Laetiporus sulphureus, often called the Chicken of the Woods, is a unique mushroom that has much to offer. This edible fungus is known for its delightful taste and texture, resembling chicken meat. Let’s explore its cultivation, health benefits, and market potential. This mushroom grows on hardwood trees like oak and chestnut. It thrives on decaying…
6 July 2025 In India, food is a cultural cornerstone, a source of national pride, and a daily necessity for 1.4 billion people. Yet, the very people who make this abundance possible like farmers, farm labourers, and countless workers across the food systems remain largely invisible in the national consciousness. Their struggles rarely make headlines…
In recent years, farmers and scientists have been exploring new technologies to improve agriculture. One such innovation is genome editing. This technique allows scientists to change a plant’s genetic material in a precise way. Recently, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) announced new varieties of rice created using this technology. These rice varieties are…
Dr. Rakesh Kumar, a dedicated scientist from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in Patna, has been awarded the Dr. R.C. Gautam Young Agronomist Award for 2024. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Kumar has made significant contributions to sustainable farming practices, especially in climate-resilient agriculture. His work has focused on empowering farmers…
The Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR) in Nagpur is developing a new genome editing technique aimed at increasing cotton yields. Cotton is a vital crop for many countries, including India, as it provides fiber for clothing, edible oil, and livestock feed. The growing world population and climate change pose significant challenges for cotton production….
Lettuce is a popular vegetable known for its crisp leaves and refreshing taste. It is often used in salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Lettuce grows quickly and is packed with nutrients. This makes it a favourite among farmers. It thrives in cooler temperatures, making it ideal for various climates. Many farmers are now turning to lettuce…
Ziziphus jujuba, also known as jujube, is a fruit tree that is gradually disappearing from the beautiful valleys of Kashmir. This tree is not just another fruit-bearing plant; it is rich in nutrients and has a variety of medicinal benefits. It can adapt to different climates and is a symbol of hope for sustainable farming…
