Punjab farmer embraces eco-friendly permanent raised bed method

A family at Ranwan village, led by Hoshiar Singh Ranu, has started permanent raised farming in half of its 20-acre land.

Launched under the banner of Guru Nanak Kheti Paidawar, the endeavour is focused on the first Sikh Guru’s teaching ‘Pawan Guru, Pani Pita, Mata Dharat Mahat’ and does not prioritise monetary benefits.

Deputy Commissioner Viraj S Tidke and ADC Sukhpreet Singh Sidhu inaugurated the sowing process at the family’s land to boost their morale on the path of regenerating farming.

Undeterred by the potential risks of increased cost of inputs in comparison to other methods, Ranu said he was determined to improve the biotic and abiotic components and soil health in his fields, besides being able to serve palatable food items that were good for health. Ranu said no pesticide, weedicides or chemical fertilisers would be used on his farm. “Having conducted studies at neighbouring states we have decided that only consumable parts of plants will be harvested in an eco-friendly manner and all other vegetative parts would be mulched in the soil, replacing the need for fertilisers,” said Ranu.

Initially Sona Moti, Chapati, PBW872 and PBW826 varieties of wheat, mustard and grams will be cultivated, while extensive diversification will be pursued in the future.

Appreciating the family’s initiative, ADC Sidhu said development officers in the agriculture department had been advised to extend technical support to the farmer as and when the need arrives.

Referring to studies conducted at advanced research institutes, Sidhu explained how the permanent raised bed farming method, wherein crops are grown in fixed, elevated beds that are not built every year and only the surface is cultivated, helped conserve soil quality and reduced the need for heavy machinery by restricting compaction to pathways.