Isha’s Save Soil Movement organised a mega conference titled “Earn Every Day with Integrated Farming” at PSNA College, Dindigul, bringing together pioneering farmers who have successfully transitioned to natural and integrated farming. The event provided practical insights into sustainable agricultural practices, equipping farmers with strategies to improve soil health and secure a steady income.

Speaking at the mega conference, pioneering farmer Thulasi Das remarked, “Many aspire to become a Nammazhvar (a revered figure in organic farming) overnight. However, success in organic farming comes only with time and consistent effort.”

Reflecting on his journey, he shared that although he had received awards for chemical farming, his sister’s death from cancer led him to seek organic alternatives. During this search, pioneering farmer Kaliamoorthy and Isha’s Save Soil training programs became a guiding light. He further explained that today, he cultivates the traditional Aathur Kichili Samba rice variety, which is best suited to his land, and has seen excellent yields. Selecting the right variety for one’s soil conditions significantly improves productivity—but it takes time. For him, it took 10 years.

Earlier, Swami Srimukha, Coordinator of the Save Soil Movement, stated that for the past 20 years, the Save Soil Movement has been striving to transform Tamil Nadu into an organic farming state, reviving both farmers’ livelihoods and soil fertility. The seminar followed the “Farmers to Farmers” model, where experienced farmers shared practical knowledge to inspire others. To date, more than 30,000 farmers across Tamil Nadu have received hands-on training in natural farming, with 10,000 successfully transitioning to natural farming. The movement also offers continuous guidance through WhatsApp groups and direct field visits. He further emphasised that today, many farmers suffer losses due to monocropping, which leads to poor yields and unstable prices. To address this, the Save Soil Movement is promoting integrated farming as a means of ensuring daily income.

Mr. Balaganesh, Secretary of PSNA College, welcomed the gathering, followed by an address from Muthukumar, Field Coordinator of the Save Soil Movement, on the significance of natural farming.

Gautam, an IT professional-turned-farmer from MRK Farm, shared his experience of earning ₹1 lakh per month through goat farming. Although he came from a farming background, he pursued engineering and worked in the IT industry. However, his passion for farming never faded. After COVID, he transitioned to full-time farming, raising native goats. He also shares his journey on YouTube, which has received an overwhelming response. However, he cautioned aspiring farmers that watching YouTube videos or attending seminars alone isn’t enough. Real learning happens only through hands-on experience. He advised them to start small—buy and raise a few goats first. Only then would they understand the challenges and develop the skills to succeed.

Other pioneering farmers also shared their expertise. Annadurai spoke about earning ₹12 lakh annually through broiler chicken farming. Sharmas, who has 30 years of experience in fish farming, shared his insights, while Kandhasamy from Kovaipudur discussed his success in integrated farming by cultivating greens.

To provide farmers with a real-time demonstration of income opportunities in integrated farming, a model integrated farm was set up on the college campus. This farm showcased goats, cattle, chickens, ducks, and fish farming. Additionally, an exhibition and sale featured seeds and over 50 value-added products.

The seminar was jointly organised by the Save Soil Movement, PSNA College, and HDFC Bank. Thousands of farmers and members of the public participated with great enthusiasm, eager to learn from those who have reaped success through years of experience.