Inmates of old-age homes to be part of organic markets

Tribune news service

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Amritsar, January 5

A special session on natural and organic food production was held at a weekly organic market here to help elders from an old-age home understand the nuances of producing healthy food. Dilbir Foundation (DF) invited inmates of Sarabh Aasra old-age home to enjoy their first day at the organic marketplace. They were given training on natural food production by farmer Satnam Singh Bal, who is a leading organic farmer and conducts workshops on training people on natural farming practices.

Beginning with mushroom farming and cultivating a small piece of land owned by Sarab Asra, these senior citizens will not only produce crop but also participate in selling the produce at the weekly market. “Ten old-age homes in the holy city will be engaged in this activity. Lack of fruitful activity for occupying their time is a common lament among inmates. So, in collaboration with Inderpreet Singh’s programme of the Society for Productive Engagement and Entertainment for Elderly (SPEEE), the effort shall be to approach everyone from these homes, provide farming information at weekly organic markets, followed by practical training at old age homes and opportunity to sell their fresh produce. This shall gainfully occupy the inmates and provide them an opportunity to raise resources for them through collective farming,” said Gunbir Singh, who heads DF & EcoAmritsar.

Meanwhile, inmates feel such an activity will help them stay healthy as well as provide for themselves. EcoAmritsar continues to engage with more and more farmers. “We are willing to work will all institutions who shall help us propagate poison-free food production. We also seek support of other social organisations to visit and support the organic Sunday venture for better health of the people and motivate natural farm practices,” said Gunbir Singh.