Tharkhi village hosts natural farming workshop for Mandi farmers

A natural farming awareness and training programme was successfully held in Tharkhi village of Dhanotu development block, Mandi district, under the aegis of the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Sundernagar.

The initiative aimed to promote eco-friendly and sustainable agricultural practices among local farmers.

The event was presided over by Dr Sanjay Thakur, Deputy Project Director of ATMA, Mandi.

Dr Thakur highlighted the long-term advantages of natural farming over conventional, chemical-based methods.

He said prolonged use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides has resulted in declining soil fertility and escalating input costs. In contrast, he said, natural farming practices help reduce cultivation expenses while producing more nutritious and healthier crops.

The programme also featured progressive farmer Sarwan Kumar from Chambi Panchayat as the special guest. Sharing his first-hand experience, he educated farmers on the use of natural inputs such as Beejamrit, Ghan Jeevamrit, Jeevamrit, Agniastra and Brahmastra and conducted live demonstrations on their preparation and application. He also introduced sour buttermilk as an effective and natural remedy for crop diseases, explaining both its preparation and practical use.

To further motivate adoption, participants were provided with organic fertilisers, cattle feed and seasonal vegetable seeds — all distributed free of cost.

The event received enthusiastic participation from local farmers and was also attended by Lekhraj, Block Technical Manager of the Sundernagar Agriculture Development Block, along with other dignitaries and agriculture officials.