Organic Farming - Sujata area (Bakrour, Silaunja, Basadhi, Bataspur, Ratnara Garanga Bihga, villages located near Bodhgaya, Gaya, Bihar)

This area depends on income from religious tourists visiting Bodhgaya. During the pandemic, tourism stopped abruptly. This exacerbated the poverty in these villages - especially experienced by disadvantaged families, many of Dalit or Harijan caste, and many heads of households are widows.

These families lack access to fresh, healthy nutritious vegetables.

Due to intensive chemical farming methods, the soil has become degraded, resulting in a loss of nutrients. This in turn impacts the health of the local community

We have taken out a lease on a piece of land, since the pandemic began. We are growing organic vegetables and distributing them to local families in need. The sale of a portion of the vegetables at market generates income to purchase some necessary equipment and supplies. We collaborated with an agriculture college in Gaya to offer training to local farmers interested in organic methods and to inspire young people to become involved in organic agriculture. 

We envision that this project will support the vibrant good health of our community, by offering equitable access to nutritious food. Children who are well nourished are more able to learn effectively. We expect to restore soil mineral balance and fertility over the long term. In addition, this project is encouraging community cohesion through volunteer involvement and supporting networking between local farmers and organic farming resources.