India is among the top three global producers of a broad range of crops, fruits & vegetables. It is the second largest producer of wheat and rice, the world’s major food staples. It is a country with the largest herds of buffalo and cattle and is the largest producer of milk. Also, a country with one of the largest and fastest growing poultry industries.
But does that give us the right to brag? Especially when we know that –
India, also has many farmers who live below the poverty line. The population of this country is probably growing faster than the country’s ability to produce. It is also a country where many farmers find refuge in suicide. The country lacks proper storage and infrastructure resulting in food spoilage while many die of hunger each day?
This post is not about criticizing anything or anyone.
But, think about it. More than 50% of the population of this country is involved in agriculture, which is a significant part of the population to say the least.
People who toil in the fields so we can have food on our plates deserve respect, proper attention, support, and better quality of life.
Anyway, there will always be things that make you feel good and some that don’t. There will always be those who are doing things right and some who are not. Hopefully, the Government is doing all the right things to improve the condition.
Speaking of right, here is someone from Umred, who is passionate about his work – farming. Not restricted by means, mind, or enthusiasm, Mr. Mohan Jibkatey, a farmer in Umred tries to incorporate the most efficient ways of farming. He is one of the few in Umred to use the drip irrigation system.
[singlepic id=72 w=520 h=440 float=center]
Drip irrigation is an irrigation method that saves water and fertilizer by allowing water to drip slowly to the roots of plants, either onto the soil surface or directly onto the root zone, through a network of valves, pipes, tubing, and emitters.
This system has many benefits such as minimized – nutrient loss, soil erosion and weed growth. Use or spread of fertilizers is also reduced to a minimum due to localized application.
[singlepic id=71 w=520 h=440 float=center]
Next time you thank “God” for food, also remember to thank the farmers for their hard work. Mr. Jibkatey, thanks for doing a great job and for letting us visit your farm.
Now, if I could only find someone who grows lettuce in this area. 🙂
Some text is available under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License‎ – Wikipedia
