“Agriculture is our wisest pursuit because it will contribute most to real wealth, good morals, and happiness.”
— Thomas Jefferson
Smallholder farmers often struggle with unpredictable yields, high input costs, and pest infestations in the face of climate challenges. However, innovative solutions like Bhootmuri paddy, introduced by the Centre for World Solidarity (CWS) and facilitated by Bhoomi Ka, are creating ripples of change.
Let’s dive into the inspiring journey of farmer Srikanta Mahato from Hethbatri village, Purulia, West Bengal, who embraced this climate-resilient paddy variety with remarkable results.
A Crop That Stands Out
Bhootmuri paddy is not just another crop; it’s a solution tailored for resilience. Introduced by CWS to the Jhalda Agro Farmer Producer Company (FPC), this variety is making waves for its low-input requirements and ability to withstand climate stress.
Here’s what makes it unique:
- Short Duration: Harvested in 110 days from sowing.
- Minimal Inputs: Only 100 cubic feet of farmyard manure (FYM) was used — no fertilizers, no pesticides, and no weeding required.
- Climate Resilience: Thrived despite climate variability during the critical “DANA” phase.
- Pest Resistance: Unaffected by yellow stem borer, which severely damaged nearby fields.
Harvest Results
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 quintals per bigha (~33 decimals).
- Cost Savings: Drastically reduced input costs due to natural farming practices.
- Farmer Satisfaction: Srikanta Mahato plans to save seeds for the next season, ensuring sustainability.
“This paddy required no fertilizers, no weeding, and no pesticides. The yield is excellent, and it developed faster than other varieties,” says Mahato, reflecting the joy of a farmer empowered by innovation.
The Bigger Picture: A Path Towards Sustainability
The success of Bhootmuri paddy isn’t limited to individual farmers; it has the potential to transform agricultural practices across the region:
- Seed Sovereignty: Farmers like Mahato are preparing to produce seeds locally, reducing dependency on external markets.
- Scalability: The Jhalda Agro FPC is promoting this variety among other farmers, ensuring knowledge sharing and adoption.
- Environmental Benefits: By avoiding chemical inputs, this practice contributes to healthier soils and cleaner ecosystems.
Why It Matters
In a world grappling with climate change, innovations like Bhootmuri paddy offer a glimmer of hope. They empower smallholder farmers to adapt, thrive, and sustain their livelihoods while contributing to a more resilient food system.
Join Us in Transforming Food Systems
At Bhoomi Ka, we believe in the power of farmer-centric solutions to build a sustainable future. Stories like that of Srikanta Mahato inspire us to continue our work in empowering FPOs, promoting ecological farming, and connecting farmers with markets.
Let’s work together for a greener tomorrow!
Key Highlights
- Region: Purulia, West Bengal
- Innovation: Climate-resilient Bhootmuri paddy
- Impact: High yield, low costs, pest resistance, and climate adaptability