In a transformative journey from water scarcity to organic abundance, Bangund, a village in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, has emerged as a model for organic farming. Designated as a model village in 2017 by the government for cultivating vegetables without the use of chemicals and pesticides, Bangund has witnessed remarkable success over the years.
Comprising 150 households and 400 kanals of land, the village has become a hub for organic farming. Bashir Ahmad, an organic farmer from Bangund, exemplifies this success. Cultivating various vegetables solely through vermicompost, he has been reaping the benefits for seven years.
Ahmad noted a significant increase in vegetable production this year, with prices, especially for tomatoes and Shimla mirch, doubling compared to previous years. Approximately 90 percent of the villagers are engaged in agriculture, emphasizing the community’s dedication to sustainable farming practices.
Bangund’s success story began with the government’s initiative to provide borewells, addressing the historical issue of water scarcity. Bashir Ahmad highlighted the transition from using water motors fueled by kerosene oil to the current need for solar bore wells due to rising oil prices.
The agricultural transformation in Bangund is attributed to the support received under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) scheme. Farmers were provided with quality seeds, training, and bore wells for irrigation, turning vast barren lands into fertile fields. The village now boasts a thriving agricultural sector, sending organic produce to local and national markets.
Organic farming in Bangund is characterized by the use of organic manure instead of fertilizers and chemicals. Farmers utilize local cow dung to produce vermicompost, promoting sustainable waste management practices. This approach has not only led to economic benefits but also contributed to environmental conservation.
Bashir Ahmad’s sons have followed in his footsteps, recognizing the economic viability and sustainability of organic farming. Javid Ahmad Bhat, one of his sons, highlighted the financial security and satisfaction derived from the business.
Chief Agriculture Officer Pulwama, Iqbal Khan, praised Bangund as the first organic cluster in Pulwama, where farmers exclusively rely on organic manure. The Agriculture Department has provided technical guidance and seeds, facilitating the transition from inorganic to organic cultivation. Khan emphasized the success of the cluster farming scheme, with Bangund annually producing 1250 metric tonnes of organic vegetables.
As more farmers join the organic farming cluster, the initiative has gained momentum, fostering economic independence and reducing reliance on traditional government jobs. Khan sees the potential for cluster farming to benefit small landholding farmers across Kashmir, presenting a sustainable alternative for agricultural communities.
