Sustainable Livelihoods for Women Farmers
Sumana Mahadevan, The Organic Farm
Sumana Mahadevan, from The Organic Farm,
shared her extensive experience working with peri-urban women in Cheyyur Taluk highlighting the importance of sustainable livelihoods, diverse farming practices, and empowering women in agriculture.
Creating Sustainable Livelihoods through
Diverse Farming Practices
Sumana discussed The Organic Farm’s commitment
to creating sustainable livelihoods for peri-urban
women through diverse farming practices. The farm
cultivates various crops, provides a habitat for
wildlife, and offers learning opportunities for
children, fostering an understanding of food’s value
and production.
Sumana highlighted the importance of biodiversity and
environmental sustainability. The Organic farm provides a habitat for various wildlife species, contributing to the ecological
balance of the region.
Empowering Women and Preserving Traditional
Knowledge
The program at The Organic Farm involves teaching women to grow herb saplings, manage nurseries, and sell plants as part of a sustainable business. This approach not only creates alternative livelihoods but also preserves traditional knowledge and promotes the production of safe, organic food and seeds.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence
Sumana acknowledged the challenge of motivating women
to take on new enterprises, especially given the initial uncertainties. However, she highlighted that once the initial hurdles are overcome, women often continue independently, demonstrating resilience and
entrepreneurial spirit.