Natural farming is often described as a path to sustainability, but for farmers like Sumanbai from Babulgaon, Kandhar Taluka, Dist Nanded, it is also a source of pride, prosperity, and confidence. Her story is a shining example of how even small farmers can achieve remarkable results when they embrace traditional wisdom and eco-friendly practices.
Experimenting with Natural Inputs
Sumanbai first experimented with vegetables like radish, pumpkin, and spinach, applying natural formulations such as Jeevamrut and Neemastra through Organic farming ‘Project JIVA’ supported by NABARD and implementing by Sanskriti Samvardhan Mandal, Sagroli. These practices not only reduced her dependency on chemical inputs but also restored soil health and improved yields. Encouraged by these positive outcomes, she decided to take a bold step in 2025.
Cultivating a Traditional Wild Crop
This year, she chose to cultivate Kartule, a traditional wild vegetable known for its nutritional and medicinal value. While most farmers overlook such crops, Sumanbai saw potential in reviving it. On just 10 gunthas of land, she sowed the seeds in May 2025. To her delight, within 45 days the crop began to yield.
Impressive Results on a Small Plot
The numbers tell a powerful story:
- Weekly harvests of around 50 kg of Kartule
- Market price: ₹200 per kg
- Total earnings: nearly ₹1,00,000
- Plus an additional ₹20,000 from intercrops like bitter gourd and tomato
With an investment of only ₹14,000, the returns were truly remarkable
Beyond Income: Building Confidence
For Sumanbai, the real transformation goes beyond profits. She proudly says:
“Natural farming keeps costs low and ensures safe, healthy food. It has truly changed my approach to farming.”
This sense of empowerment is what makes her journey inspiring. She has shown that small-scale farmers don’t need vast landholdings or expensive inputs to succeed — just determination, innovation, and trust in nature.
A Model for Others
Sumanbai’s success with Kartule demonstrates that traditional crops combined with natural methods can open new opportunities for farmers. Her journey is a call to others: to look at farming not only as an occupation but also as a sustainable way to ensure healthy food, financial security, and dignity.
Her story reminds us that when nurtured with care and natural wisdom, even a small piece of land can create a big impact.