Pakistan Cultivating a sustainable future: Babulal’s journey into in-conversion farming
In the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Babulal, a 33-year-old farmer, is weaving sustainability in the agricultural landscape of Amalwani village. Babulal’s journey from traditional farming to embracing organic cotton cultivation is not only improving his life but also contributing to a more sustainable future.
Babulal’s return to his ancestral land in 2021 marked a turning point. Unaware of the OCA Farm Programme running in his village, Babulal became an organic farmer, joining a group of farmers supported by OCA’s Implementing Partner. The transition involved embracing organic practices, attending training sessions, and incorporating bio-inputs for pest control and crop management.
The knowledge gained from the trainings organised in my village opened my eyes to a more sustainable way of farming. I wanted to be a part of it.
In-conversion farming: nurturing change
In-conversion farming, the bridge between conventional and fully organic practices, has become a lifeline for farmers like Babulal. It involves a gradual shift from conventional to organic methods, allowing farmers to adopt sustainable practices at their own pace. Babulal’s organic journey involved learning about compost preparation, bio-inputs, and the use of organic manure. With the support of OCA’s Implementing Partner, he cultivated cotton across two acres and soybean on one acre, employing techniques like mixed cultivation of maize along with pigeon peas as a border crop.
I used 2 packets of non-GMO cotton seed and applied 10 MT of organic manure. The support from OCA Implementing Partner, including pre-financed for seeds and bio inputs, was helpful.
Babulal had a difficult time when one of his bullocks succumbed to the Lumpy virus disease, which threatened his labor income. However, the timely premium he received for his in-conversion cotton through OCA’s programme became a source of support. With the additional income, he purchased a new bullock, instilling confidence to continue his operations in the upcoming season.
Organic impact on Babulal’s cotton production
In 2022, with favorable monsoons, Babulal reaped the benefits of organic cotton cultivation.
2 acres
of land
1379 kg
of in-conversion cotton yielded
10%
of his total revenue earned from selling in-conversion cotton
Why Brands should invest in in-conversion?
In-conversion farmers like Babulal are the unknown heroes of sustainable agriculture. Investing in in-conversion programs not only supports farmers during their transition but also fosters a broader shift towards organic practices. Brands that align with such programs contribute to building a resilient and sustainable supply chain.
Babulal’s journey exemplifies the benefits of in-conversion farming. As consumers, advocates, and businesses, our support can amplify the impact of sustainable agriculture. Supporting in-conversion farmers is not just an investment in agriculture; it’s an investment in our shared future.
