In a significant push towards sustainable agriculture, Congress MLA HD Thammaiah has made a compelling appeal to farmers in Chikkamagaluru to embrace organic farming methods and increase the cultivation of nutritious millets. The call was made during the inauguration of a district-level organic and millet fair, underscoring a growing consensus on the need for a chemical-free farming revolution.
A Rallying Cry for Chemical-Free Agriculture
The event, held on Sunday at the AIT College, was a collaborative effort involving the Karnataka state agriculture department, watershed development department, Karnataka State Agricultural Produce Processing and Export Corporation, district administration, zilla panchayat, and the agriculture department. MLA Thammaiah, addressing the gathering, pointed a finger at the excessive use of chemicals and pesticides in conventional farming, which he said contaminates food with toxins.
He emphasized that switching to organic methods is the only way to ensure toxin-free, healthy food for consumers. Thammaiah particularly championed millets, describing them as a boon for good health. He noted that organically grown millets not only command a premium price in the market but are also resilient crops suitable for regions with low rainfall, a trait increasingly vital in changing climatic conditions.
Millets: The Superfood for Health and Climate Resilience
Elaborating on the advantages, the MLA highlighted the dual benefits of millets. Their drought-resistant properties make them a reliable crop for farmers facing uncertain weather patterns. On the consumer side, he stressed that millets are highly nutritious and can help prevent lifestyle diseases like diabetes and heart conditions. "The government is also encouraging the cultivation of millets," Thammaiah added, urging the entire farming community to focus more on organic and millet farming for a profitable and sustainable future.
Cross-Party Support for a Return to Natural Farming
The fair witnessed rare cross-party agreement on the issue. BJP MLC CT Ravi attributed the current crisis in agriculture to human disruption of the natural chain. He argued that farmers, who should be self-reliant, have become dependent due to a move away from natural practices. "Returning to natural farming is the only way forward. Such organic farming fairs should support farmers in becoming self-reliant," Ravi stated.
Echoing the concern for agriculture's future, JD(S) MLC SL Bhojegowda called for serious introspection. He observed that even individuals from farming backgrounds are now distancing themselves from the profession. "It must be shown that farming life is profitable and can provide peace. If farming life is destroyed, the entire nation and human race will be doomed," Bhojegowda warned. He stressed that greater importance must be given to farming, or the next generation would face severe challenges. Joint director for agriculture Thirumalesh was also present at the event.
The collective message from Chikkamagaluru's political leadership is clear: a shift towards organic farming and millet cultivation is not just a health imperative but an economic and environmental necessity for securing India's agricultural future.
