1 Prepared by Dr. D. Narasimha Reddy, nreddy.donthi@gmail.com

FIRST NATIONAL ORGANIC CONFERENCE

ROAD TO SOLIDARITY

January 21 24 2001 Bidkin (Aurangabad), India

Conference Proceedings

Organised by

Institute of Integrated Rural Development P. O. Box. 562, Kanchan Nagar, Nakshatrawadi

Aurangabad 431 002, Maharashtra Phone: 0240 376336; 02431 41534

Fax: 0240 376866 Email: iirdind@bom4.vsnl.net.

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CONTENTS

BIDKIN COMMITMENT PROCEEDINGS OF THE CONFERENCE

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BIDKIN COMMITMENT

Organic farming is a tradition in India, which is still being practiced by many

farmers. This is essentially based on principles of ecology, social justice and

efficiency in resource usage. In the present situation, wherein there are huge

damages caused by chemical farming on human health and ecology, organic

farming is the only alternative. Conventional farming is also unviable for an

average Indian farmer who cannot bear the huge input costs. This situation is

accentuated by the exploitative pricing mechanisms, which do not fetch any

reasonable price for the agricultural produce.

Indian biomass and livestock have to be developed towards providing organic

inputs to farming, which would lead improvement in soil fertility and also enable

the production of good quality crops and other produce besides bringing about

poverty alleviation. This would be possible through properly planned rural

development approaches and activities.

It is now time for the government and the civil society alike to realise that organic

farming is the option to resuscitate the Indian agriculture, restore the confidence of

farmers on farming, promote healthy living and conserve our natural resources.

India has to be self-reliant in building up mechanisms which promote the

production and consumption of organic produce. Government should encourage

this sector, not only to cater to export market, but also to develop domestic market.

There is an urgent and important need for the government to bring out a National

Organic Farming Policy to map and chart the course of development of organic

farming in India.

Adopted unanimously at the First National Organic Conference

at Bidkin (Aurangabad), India on the 24th

of January 2001.

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PROCEEDINGS OF THE CONFERENCE DAY I The First National Organic Conference was held at Institute of Integrated Rural Development (IIRD), Bidkin (Aurangabad), Maharashtra from January 21-24, 2001. This Conference brought together various stakeholders from different parts of India like farmers practicing organic agriculture (OA), scientists, Government officials, Non Government Organisations (NGOs), office bearers of international organisations, representatives of business enterprises involved in organic products, policy makers and alike. The purpose of the conference was to bring about interaction between these stakeholders to enable them to exchange knowledge & experiences and to facilitate the formation of networks to promote the interests of the organic agriculture practitioners. The Conference started on the first day at 10.30 a.m. with a welcome note by Dr. Alexander Daniel, President IIRD, Aurangabad. He underlined the importance of organising the conference at this point of time, when national policies for organic agriculture is being shaped. The purpose of organising the meeting at this venue, he pointed out, is to allow the primary stakeholder, the farmers practicing organic agriculture, to interact with the other stakeholders. He emphasised need for protecting the land which is the basis of organic agriculture movement. Dr. Daniel pointed out that this Conference is intended to be a Conference where an intense level of interaction takes place between different constituents. Therefore, he urged for close interaction between different stakeholders. The conference was inaugurated by Shri. Raosaheb Shinde, Vice Chairperson of Rayat Shikshan Sanstha, Shrirampur, Maharashtra along with Dr. G. K. Veeresh former vice chancellor, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore. Dr. Veeresh, former VC, UAS, Bangalore gave the keynote address. He appreciated Dr. Daniels effort to organise the conference. According to him poverty is not of the people but of the land which we have exploited. He said that although more than 90 Organisations are working in OA, there is no one definition accepted by all. According to him, OA is the system of utilising locally available resources & manpower and using the land without abusing it. However, for OA to succeed, there should be changes in the food habits of people as well. He cited the historical example of the 4H clubs in America, where farmers organised & lobbied the government for favourable policies; he wondered whether it is possible for OA farmer in India also to undertake such organising and lobbying activities. The Conference details was given by Shri. D. Narasimha Reddy, organising secretary. The objective of this conference is to bring together all the farmers, researchers, academicians, businessman, NGO to concentrate on domestic Market development, to study the important aspects of Inputs and setting up standards for organic farming. The Conference has different session on different aspects of Organic farming; this included

Food security, Soil Fertility, Indigenous knowledge & Agricultural Fertility, Management of Biodiversity, Dryland Agriculture,

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Economics of Yield & Productivity, Domestic Market Development, Resources for Organic farming, Organic Inputs Supply & Demand & Organic Standards, Inspection & Certification.

One of the unique characteristic of the sessions is that each contain a presentation by a practicing farmer. Every evening, an hour is reserved for networking between different stakeholder so as to develop networks. Delivering his inaugural address, Mr. Raosaheb Shinde said that soil is the first victim of inorganic farming system that is would lead to decrease in soil productivity in the long run. He also emphasised that the adoption from inorganic to OA should be gradual and systematic. Sustainable Agriculture is the adoption of alternate practices, which is sustainable and viable for farmer, is an urgent need. An understanding of nature is the key to a sustainable life. According to him, OA is not only a practice but also a philosophy. Session I: FOOD SECURITY Chairperson: Mr. Raosaheb Shinde The first session started with a presentation by a farmer Manishabai Kshirsagar, organic farmer who talked about the ill effects of inorganic fertilizers. According to her the reasons for adopting organic farming are the better health of society, protection of environment, sustainablility of land fertility. She emphasised the use of Rhizobium culture, vermi compost, change in cropping pattern, mulching to improve the productivity of the land on a long term basis. Padamshri Kutty Menon, Member of National Taskforce on Organic Farming also emphasised the practicing of sustainable activity to protect the Mother Earth. He further added that the importance of rapid growth of agriculture should not only be for self reliance, but for equality in wealth distribution also. He stressed the need for giving importance to livestock management as an integral Part of OA. He also gave the interesting experiments of Mr. Dabholkar, who produced enough food from 20 gunthas for a single family. Manoruddhin Farokhi of PRADAN, Jharkhand gave details of the work done by their NGO in a tribal village Bamarjhathi, Jharkhand, which included building up of a Dam to check run off. A watershed Development programme was also launched. When a trench was constructed, it channeled the water along with the biomass from the forest land on to the agricultural land. This helped in the improvement of soil texture and its moisture retention capacity resulting in the crop production increasing from 1.2t/ha to 3t/ha. After each session, discussion on the various presentations took place. The discussion started with the issue of sustaining the production increase in the Jharkhand village. The danger of the Forest Department cutting off the trees & reducing the runoff was there, one way out suggested by Dr. Veeresh is to organise the people to put pressure on the forest department. Mr. Kutty Menon gave his experience of avoiding monoculture and encouraging the birds to manage the insects. Cow Urine, neem cake, etc are other methods adopted. To a question as to documentation of the change in the soil people, he said the lack of facilities to do this cheaply is hampering this.

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Session II: SOIL FERTILITY Chairperson: Dr. G. K. Veeresh This session started with the presentation by Dr. Peter Proctor, The Biodynamic Outreach, New Zealand on biodynamic system of agriculture. The method of preparing Cow Horn Dung (BD 500) and using crystal (BD 501) was explained. He laid emphasis on rhythm on the position of cosmic elements in maintaining fertile soil. He also brief explained about the various other herb preparations (code named 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 507), which help to enhance the composting process. Mr. Gadge Patil, organic farmer talked about the ill effects of green revolution. He emphasised on traditional methods to increase soil fertility through low cost & with locally available methods. Dr. Koshy John of the Spices Board, Kochi, Kerala emphasised the components of OA: Ecologically Sound. Ecologically Viable Socially Just Culturally Insensitive Based on Holistic science Total Development. After the session, certain questions on the difference between Cowdung & Buffalo Dung were asked which were answered by the speakers. Session III: INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE AND AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES Chairperson: Ms. Prabha Mahale Ms. Hasnoorbi Shaikh, organic farmer opened this session by trying to establish the link between understanding the knowledge of the local people about their environment and the technical aspects of farming practices. The session was followed by a presentation by Dr. G. V. Malewar, former Associate Dean & Head, Soil science, Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani who gave 16 indigenous nutrient conservation practices in nine agro-climatic zones of Maharashtra This session ended with the presentation by Ms. Renu Bhatt, Department of Resource management, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, where she emphasised the need to educate or train women about OA specially in hill regions of India. She also emphasised certain areas for research and development under organic agriculture that needs attention in Uttranchal. Stakeholders Meeting for Networking Day I At the end of each day, group meetings of the different stakeholders were held on the different topics presented on the day. The purpose of these meetings were to forge networks between the different partners involved in that activity/field. Food Security Chairperson Mr. Kutty Menon

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The group discussed the need for food Security. It felt that the farmer who are small landowner i.e.

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Ms.Hausabai Haider Baig, organic farmer expressed the importance of some medicinal plant like awala, henna, gulvel, dhorguns. Certain oil & ointments are being prepared from these plants which helps in biodiversity conservation as well as income generation. Mr. Yogananda recounted the experience of enhancing soil fertility & productivity using sewerage polluted water under tank irrigation system for rice crops in the Kolar district of Karnataka .They found that use of organic manure increase the yield & also ensure sustainability of production. Mr.Shahji Narwade, Tata Institute of Social Sciences gave glimpses of technology dissemination they did in Tuljapur block of Maharashtra. The process involved the analysis of problems by the farmers & their coming out with locally specific technologies. At a later stage, this is expected to lead to farmer-to-farmer extension in other villages. Certain issues like eroding faith of farming community on agriculture, drought prone condition, improper management of water, hybrid seeds, improper crop plantation, attack of pest were also identified. Mr. Manoj Sanghane of Surat presented on Need for OA in herbs and also the aim of Ayurveda. According to him active ingredients present in herbs cure human beings. Mr. B. Venkateshwarlu, Senior Scientist, Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Santoshnagar, Hyderabad gave the results of his study on microbial activity in different kinds of lands where organic and chemical agriculture were practiced. He reported that there was no difference in the number of micro organisms between lands that were cultivated in organic method & with chemical fertilizer. However the diversity in microorganism, i.e. the different type of microorganism present, was found higher on the land which used organise fertilizer as against chemical fertilisers. The discussion that followed these presentations saw some experts recommending not to stop chemical fertilizer because through organic agriculture, total nutrients cannot be given. They recommended Integrated Nutrient management. The need to educate people about the minimum fertilizer requirement of crops was also emphasised. The promotional activity for OA was also taken into consideration. They also emphasised on development of microbial cultures for decomposing organic resources in less time. Session VI: ECONOMICS OF YIELD AND PRODUCTIVITY Chairperson: Dr. B. Venkateswarulu Mr. V. B. Karmakar, Member, All India Organic & Biodynamic Farming Association, Indore gave the change in Inputs-Outputs ratio that has been seen from 1970 to 1990. He presented his study regarding effect of fertilizer use & productivity change. The emphasis was also laid on the changes in soil due to inorganic fertilizer where soil has become hard, has lost its capacity to hold water, frequency of irrigation has increased & also input use has increased three times. He mentioned that while inputs of irrigation, chemical fertilizers, pesticide, electricity has increased anywhere by 55% to 742% in the twenty year period between 1970 to 1990, the corresponding increase in is only 89%. Mr. Jain, the next speaker, elaborated on the positive aspects of cow urine therapy. He pointed out that the urine from desi cow could be inputs for various ailments including cancer. Mr. Shoor VirSingh from Bijnore, eastern UP, recounted his experiences of organic farming he suggested that one has to study nature & be with the nature through observation to be able to practice OA.

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One of the man discussion points was the way in which the requirements of the population could be met with OA. It was pointed out by Mr. Karmarkar that despite India beings a SelfSufficient country, about 30-40% of the population is below the poverty line. This is due to the low purchasing power of the people , which can be counteracted by decrease in the input costs that will help reduce the cost of products. Session VII: DOMESTIC MARKET DEVELOPMENT Chairperson: Mr. Mukesh Verma Rahemabee Shaikh, organic farmer, presented on the domestic market problems of organic products. She explained the organic melawa (fair) that is organised to promote the organic products. Sharad Shah, ACE natural Foods & Fruits Pvt. Ltd, Baroda emphasised product differentiation where he identified 39 criteria. He also emphasis the need to consider the strata of society for marketing organic products. Besides this he felt the farmer should decide what techniques should be adopted for creating a market for his / her product. The discussion that followed started with a question about the viability of individual plant cultivation. Mr. Sangare replied that in his experience upto about Rs.10,000/acre can be the income earned. To a question about the harmful effect of using polluted water on agricultural products, it was replied that water polluted by sewerage was not a harmful, but that by heavy metal like lead, mercury is. The discussion also dealt with some problems of domestic market like product sample not matching with the product. It was pointed on that consumer should not be fooled as he is spending. Profit is essential but profiteering should not be done. Stakeholders Meeting for Networking Day II Biodiversity Chairperson Mr. Mariaselvam The discussion started by focussing on one of important but forgotten dimension of biodiversity, which is medicinal plant farming. It was suggested that all persons must cultivate at least 20-50 locally available medicinal health plants, so that one can take of their family members at their homes itself. Another aspect that was discussed was to help the soil become healthy which can be done by enchancing microdiversity of soil e.g. by using soil under Banyan tree microflora of soil can be enhanced. At least 1/3rd of total area year under organic agriculture must be left earmarked for forest cover, which is not suitable for agricultural purpose. This 1/3rd area should include herbs, shrubs & trees (internationally accepted fact). The third major thing which was discussed was about the linkage of flora & fauna i.e. interdependence of flora & fauna e.g. Honeybees are very useful for the purpose of cross-pollination. It can enhance 13 - 17% of the production. Butterflies, insects & birds also act as source of cross-pollination. General design of organic agriculture farming was also discussed, according to which an area should also includes legumes as they also play an important role in adding the biodiversity in farm & thus helps in enhancing the fertility of soil. It was also pointed out the consume diverse food products to be in a good health. A detailed discussion was also held about the peoples agriculture farms & about the Nakshtra gardens (In Mahe). It was concluded that nature never takes, it only gives. It is only man who always takes from nature.

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In the end, all the members present in the discussion exchanged their addresses to form network to help each other to create a ideal organic agriculture farms in their own places. Dryland Agriculture Chairperson Mr. Rambhau Shirode The meet began by the introduction of each participant to the rest of group. Lead by the rich experiences of Dr. Venkatesh, Shri. Shirode & Shri. Paikrao, the discussion took of on a firm footing. Dr. Venkatesh pointed out that only 20% of the dryland farmers practice conventional agriculture using chemical inputs. The others depends not only on rain as their only source of water, but also their own animals for manure & meagre green manure inputs. Since the farmer depends on the monsoon, only one crop is possible. It is important to use every inch of rain from beginning to end. To make sure that the seeds receive the first rains, summer tillage is practised, which helps to clear the fields, aerate the soil & facilitates the percolation of rain water. Questions were raised regarding loss of seed due to ants, birds & others. It was agreed that since seeds are available with the farmer from his/her last crop, which is relatively cheap, gap filling can be done. This also ensures that seeds receive enough moisture to germinate. In case of dry sowing, if the first rains are insufficient then seeds are do not have enough moisture for germination. This results in seed loss. The type of crops to be cultivated were also discussed and intercropping was considered the best pattern by all, as this helps in risk aversion and meets the farmers various needs. The basic principle in this is the selection of crops, which have different root lengths. This cropping pattern is wholesome and makes optimal use of available resources. The issue of water conservation was also discussed in detail, for e.g. the watershed conservation activities of the government and NGOs. Various indigenous practices of cultivation was also discussed. Domestic Market Development. Chairperson Dr. D. P. Singh About 28 points to be taken care of, for development of the domestic market were discussed, some of which were: 1. Setting up of standards. 2. Consumer awareness. 3. Brandname & labelling. 4. Consistency in quality 5. Access of farmers to market & access to organic product. 6. Involving the family in processing & value addition that would help to increase the

income of the family. Three important element of market were identify as consistency of supply, quality & consumers awareness about price. The need for creating demand was also emphasised where the product in small quantity should be sold directly; for volumes of product, market in preferred. The emphasis was also laid on the identification of some

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selling points, which were fear, health consciousness taste, The need of a third party for certification was also emphasised where certification can be done at three stages like at the farm, the processing unit & in the market. The need for the farmers to know the organic standards was also emphasised. These standards should be in easy & local language as people do not know the rules of organic marketing. Day III Session VIII: RESOURCES FOR ORGANIC FARMING Chairperson: Mr. V. K. Dubey The session started with a presentation by Ms. Kantabai Waghmare, organic farmer. She stated that although sail at first glance looks dead, in fact it is home to thousands of living organisms. The earth worm stays in the land, often more than 1,000 worms / acres. Eight tonne of soil is brought to the surface every year by these earth worms. She also explained the method of preparing vermiculture. Prof. Bano of Department of Zoology, UAS, Bangalore, termed vermicompost as the cast of worms. The surface earthworm, found in forests, compost pits are voracious eaters and high breeders. Studies have shown that use of earthworm results in more flowers, early inflorescence, higher girth and increase in foliage. Prof. Talashilkar of KKV, Dapoli, Maharashtra, differentiated between vermicompost and vermiwash, explaining the preparation of both. He explained about studies which has found upto 4.5 tonnes/ha. higher yield with vermicompost and vermiwash. Mr. Rakesh Dubey of Biofarming Tech. Lucknow, recounted their experience of forming Self Help Groups in villages to do organic farming. Training and Exposure to different places are undertaken for farmers; the marketing is done by a federation, which is formed out of representatives from all SHGs. The farmers were getting higher price for their organic products. Mr. Thomas Abraham of Allahabad University also gave positive results of their experiments with crops like mustard. They found increases of 30-80% in phosphorous as well as other nutrients. In the discussion that followed, answering to a question, Mr. Talashilkar said the shelf life of vermiwash has not yet been studied, but he has used after six months without any change in its effect. Also vermiculture was found more effective than vermiwash. Session IX: ORGANIC INPUTS: SUPPLY AND DEMAND Chairperson: Mr. Mariaselvam Dr. Mutatkar from Mumbai elaborated on the problem of waste in India, to start this session. He contended that about 700 900 million tonnes of waste is available in India, which includes agricultural waste, coir waste, agro industry byproducts and municipal solid waste. Conversion of these into compost or producing electricity out of these are possibilities which need to be explored. Dr. Vishwanath of the Prof. Kadur A. Narayan Research Foundation, Bangalore, cautioned the organic industry against polluting the soil and environment through its products. He pointed out the current difficulty in procuring organic inputs since the organic industry is still in the developing stage. The profit margins in the pure biopesticide industry is relatively low compared to chemical industries, which explains

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the low entry of companies. Still, the biopesticides industry is growing at a rate of 10 15% p.a. Mr. Deepak Somayaji of EID Parrys also supported the transformation of waste into fertilizer, but felt that this may not be possible at individual level, but would be viable at a central level. Dr. D. P. Singh pointed out that the compost generation should be done properly to get full benefits. Mr. S. K. Tiwari said that one has to be careful of the amount of water used in composting; as it should be neither less nor more; in addition, good fodder leads to production of good gobar. In the next presentation, Dr. Madan Deshpande of the Institute of Vedic Studies, Akalkot, Maharashtra, elaborated on the method of Agnihotra agriculture. He referred to the verses in the Vedas devoted to medicinal plants. Agnihotra can be done by anybody and can be done at all stages of farming. It should be done at sunrise and sunset, should be performed in copper / earthern pyramid pot. Session X: ORGANIC STANDARDS, INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION Chairperson: Dr. Kubra Bano. Ms. Surkaya Jhawar elaborated on the method adopted by her in inspecting and certifying farmers in the villages nearby. Asking various details of the farm like crops, soil condition, conservation, use of fertilisers, pesticides and then filling up forms on these are undertaken. Dr. Daniel, the next speaker, felt that the standards are the heart of the organic movement. The standards are the rules, the scale of measurements which forms the basis for inspection and certification. Standards leads to research and development of systems in India, in 1996, a small committee evolved a national standard, based on the IFOAM standards. This was an attempt to Indianise the standards. Mr. Narasimha Reddy of the Centre for Resource Education, Hyderabad, emphasised the need for self reliance while developing standards. Organic agriculture is a philosophy and is concerned about resources and biodiversity. At the moment, the standards are market driven and not by concerns of resources or technology, which should be charged. Ms. Prabha Mahale felt that standards could be used for management of farms. The relationship of organic farmers is to the natural resources like soil, animal and plants as well as the consumer. While developing standards, one should take care of our local interests. Mr. Selvam Daniel, the next speaker, spoke on the efforts made to involve the private sector in organic agriculture. He stressed the need of economics in organic agriculture. Certification is for a system of production as well as the end product and helps in creating transparency. Cost of certification is a major hindrance now. Other factors that hinder includes the low scale of farms, the low rate of literacy (the high level of documentation needed), the problems of inputs and the lack of certification of inputs. The discussion that followed started with a question on the support from the Indian Government on the standards. Dr. Daniel replied that these standards have influenced the standards developed by the organisations like Spices Board. To a question as to

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the cost of certification, the reply was that it cost $500 - $1000 per day plus other costs like travel. An alternative to this high cost that is tried to be promoted is the group scheme of certification. The day ended with cultural performances by participants in different languages. DAY IV Delegates Conference Chairpersons: Dr. Veeresh, Dr. Promila Sharma, and Mr. Kutty Menon The last day of the conference was intended to be a day of reflection of the past three days outcome and the adoption of a Bidkin Declaration. The day started with a talk by Dr. Daniel on the future of the organic movement in India. He referred to organic agriculture as having always been in the Indian tradition, only making a disappearance for a few decades. However, for self-sufficiency in food and the preservation of the rural culture, organic agriculture is a necessity. Fair trade should be the basis for trading in the organic system. The high costs of certification could be helped by the practices of agencies like UNDP absorbing the costs, as is being done now in some cases. Mr. Kutty Menon appreciated the efforts made to revitalise the organic farming movement, a vital part of the Indian tradition. He promised his efforts at promoting the Bidkin declaration at the State and Central Government levels. Dr. Promila Sharma bemoaned the negligible efforts made till now to popularise organic agriculture and stressed the need for literature to promote it further. She felt that it should not be a commercial or a profitable venture. Dr. Veeresh felt the need for a common word to describe organic agriculture, as presently many terminologies are in use he suggested the term Gandhian farm, as it denoted a wholesome, a way of life. The findings of a small survey conducted among the participants of the conference during the last three days was presented next by Ms. Renu Bhatt. It found that most people, whether farmers, scientists or others, converted to organic agriculture out of personal conviction, following the dictates of their conscience. Experience in the organic field stretched to 25 years to some people and 20 years for organisations, they being involved in a diverse field of intervention. The non-availability of inputs, the lack of developed markets, lack of premium price, non-availability of research data, database, were some of the problems faced by the participants. The need for Government recognition in the form of awards, etc, subsidies / incentives was stressed. In the next session, the participants divided themselves into groups according to their choice, on various topics about 14 in all, to discuss action points and present in the plenary. The results of these are summarised below: 1. Topic: Consumer education on food quality

a. Develop pamphlets, poster, and media. b. Training of women. c. Survey to assess peoples understanding d. Morcha on factories producing chemical fertilisers, e. Sensitisation of village development committees on organic agriculture.

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2. Topic: Extension and training of farmers a. training of farmers

- Step I identifying and training the farmers in organic agriculture. - Step II bench mark survey through PRA of resources available with

farmers. Training needs assessment of rural areas. b. Establishment of Organic schools

- practical experiences should be given to farmers - Training in schools should be farmer to farmer oriented and should be

flexible. - Training of farmers and its family can be done through farmers field day or

by open schools system c. Extension education on certification, record keeping and organic

technologies. 3. Topic: Domestic Market Development

a. Formation of organic consumer association - awareness creation fear, phobia, facts - media reports

b. Expanding consumer base - fashionable / niche markets - fasting - hospital / special patients - fairs / home delivery - yoga centres - directory, preparation of

c. expand supply base - networking with other centres

d. promotion of alternative marketing e. Government

- subsidise certification - free media coverage

4. Topic: Promotion of Research

a. Evaluate existing organic agricultural practices at different institutes. Research should be multidisciplinary and action oriented.

b. NRM and OA has to be included in university and research work has to be provided for university students.

c. Research institutes should take up location specific organic research in their agenda

d. On farm trials on research /KVKs preferably in all districts of India. e. Active ingredients / constitutes and dyes involved in organic farming

researched and documented. f. Products of organic agriculture has to be qualitatively evaluated for

ingredients and advantages emphasised. g. Research and development of new biopesticides, its evaluation and testing

has to be carried out. h. All traditional agricultural practices with reference to organic agriculture has to

be documented and scientifically evaluated, and the methods be perfected. i. Research centres has to be promoted at national level on organic agriculture

under tropical / subtropical and temperate conditions.

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5. Topic: indigenous knowledge promotion a. compilation / gather knowledge base

- from farmers (older generation) - from beliefs of villagers - from sayings, literature (vedic, old texts) - from research institution.

b. Dissemination of knowledge - demonstration - personal contact with farmers - farmers meet - books, charts, songs, video and audiocassettes, pamphlets, streetplays,

handbills. - Charts, drams, and songs are most imbibed.

c. Documentation in local languages and common universal languages. 6. Topic: Biodiversity and Natural Resource Management

- make a study at village level medicinal plants, species. - Documentation of practices - Work out strategies to improve biodiversity and integrating the same into

organic farm development systems

7. Topic: Promotion of Indian standards a. national standards development efforts to be continued translated into

Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Marathi to be continued to other languages. b. Continue to develop more and more inputs to the standards through NGOs,

farmers, GOs, industrial bodies. c. Include tolerance limit for chemical residues in final product. d. Develop detailed domestic certification standards. e. Develop accredition through government and private bodies. f. Emphasise better prices to farmers. g. Review standards with EU, UK, standards for export. h. Try to get recognition from government, trade bodies, IFOAM, ISO i. Accreditation procedures to be developed. j. Disseminate standards through mass media, internet.

8. Topic: Development of Educational Material a. Educational materials for farmer centered training should be developed in

consultation with farmers groups b. Indigenous knowledge should be incorporated effectively in the training and

educational materials c. Directory of institutions engaged in farmer centered training in the country

for organic agriculture should be made d. Special efforts should be made for curriculum development at the level of

agricultural universities for including organic agriculture in the University courses

e. Open universities should prepare educational materials for organic agriculture and introduce courses

f. Educational materials which could be used by students of Nursery schools to the Secondary schools should be prepared by State and Central Government and private organisations

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9. Topic: Policies for Organic Input Industry a. to develop village level organic industries; they need technical knowledge to

do the same. b. We must differentiate between biotech and genetically manipulated inputs

which has to be banned. c. They need knowledge of usage of bio tech products like vermicompost,

biofertilisers, biopesticides.

10. Topic: National / State Organic Agricultural Policy & 11. Topic: Networking of people and association (These two topics were combined and discussed by one group)

a. introduce organic agriculture systems in all the agricultural institutions, universities, R&D laboratories.

b. Formation of small pressure group from each state, which will pursue with the state government to formulate organic agriculture policy.

c. Promotion which was given earlier for chemical farming by government should be provided to organic farming also in terms of incentives, subsidies, concessions to the organic farmers, NGOs, corporate sector who are working in the field.

d. Government should have policy to provide local organic seeds. e. Separate policy for marketing of organic agricultural produce by government

distribution network. f. Short term agricultural loans by the cooperative banks have a policy forcefully

providing chemical fertilisers to the farmers. Thus it was suggested that government should also provide organic fertilisers.

g. Establish an apex national body for promotion / propagation and lobbying for organic agriculture with networking of local level stakeholders namely farmers, consumers, facilitators, NGOs, Goose, input industries and R&D. This body will dialogue with the national, state and international agencies.

12. Topic: Animal Husbandry; 13. Topic: Farm Implements; 14. Topic: Cottage Industry (These three topics were combined and discussed by one group)

a. necessary training programme in animal husbandry should be started where the techniques of breeding, feeding, disease controls be explained to the farmers.

b. Appropriate technology to developed to reduce the strain on the bullocks with increase return like carts with pneumatic tyros and improved yoke.

c. Cottage industries to be established at village level looking at availability of resources at village level.

Adoption of Bidkin Commitment The last session of the day was the reading and adoption of the Bidkin Commitment. Originally titled the Bidkin Declaration, this document was read out and comments, suggestions, solicited. A suggestion, which was unanimously accepted, was to change the title to Bidkin Commitment. The Bidkin Commitment was therefore adopted unanimously at the conference. The programme ended with a vote of thanks by Mr. B. K. Gunjal, Programme Manager, IIRD.

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PROGRAMME SCHEDULE

21st January, 2001

10.00 AM 11 AM Inaugural Session

Welcome Song

Welcome Address: Dr. Alexander Daniel, President, Institute for

Integrated Rural Development

Key note Address: Dr. V. K. Veeresh, former Vice Chancellor, University

of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore

Conference Details: Sri. D. Narasimha Reddy, Convenor, Organizing

Committee.

Chief Guests Address: Sri. Raosaheb Shinde, Chairman, Rayat Shikshan

Sanstha, Srirampur, Maharashtra.

11.00 AM 11.30 AM Tea Break

11.30 AM 1.30 PM Session I: Food Security

Speakers:

Ms. Manishabhai Kshirsagar, Organic Farmer

Mr. Kutty Menon, Member, National Taskforce on Organic Farming

Indore

Mr. Manoruddhin Farokhi, PRADAN, Jharkhand

Discussion

1.30 PM 2.30 PM Lunch

2.30 PM - 4.00 PM Session II: Soil Fertility

Speakers:

Dr. Peter Proctor, Biodynamic OutReach, New Zealand: The Biodynamic

system of Agriculture with relation to maintenance of Soil Fertility.

Mr. Gadge Patil, Organic farmer, Babhulgaon.

Mr. Koshy John, Spice Board, Kochi, Kerala

Discussion

4.00 PM 4.30 PM Tea Break

4.30 PM 6.00 PM Session III: Indigenous Knowledge & Agricultural Practices

Speakers:

Ms. Hasnoorbi Sheikh, Organic Farmer, Karkin

Dr. G. V. Malewar, former Associated Dean and Head, Soilscience,

Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani: Indigenous Nutrient

Management Practices: A Few Observations

18

Ms. Renu Bhatt, Department of Resource Management, Pantnagar

University.

Discussion

6.00 PM 7 PM Stakeholder Meetings for networking

- Food Security - Soil Fertility - Indigeneous Knowledge and Agricultural Protection

22nd January, 2001

9.00 AM 10.30 AM Session V: Management of Biodiversity

Speakers:

Ms. Nirmalabai Gidhane, Kaudgaon

Mr. Maria Selvam, Peoples Agricultural Farm, Pudukottai, Tamil Nadu:

Biodiversity Management in Organic Farm, Pudukottai.

Mr. P. Thomas Varghese and others, NRC for oil palm, Palode, Kerala:

Organic Agriculture in Oil Palm Plantations for sustainable Production

and Ecological Advantages.

Discussion

10.30 AM 11.00 AM Tea Break

11.00 AM 1.30 PM Session IV: Dry land Agriculture

Speakers:

Ms. Husenabee Haider Baig, Organic Farmer, Aurangpurwadi

Mr. Yogananda, Bangalore: Farmers Knowledge and Innovations in

Karnataka Documentation Efforts of Hittalagida, Bangalore.

Mr. Santosh Kumar and Mr. Shahaji Narwade, Tata Institute of Social

Sciences, Osamanabad, Maharashtra: Sustainable Agricultural Practices

and Peoples Participation in Tuljapur Block, Osmanabad district.

Dr. B. Venkateshwarlu, Central Research Institute for Dryland

Agriculture, Hyderabad: Microbial diversity in continuously organic

manured and fertilized plots

Mr. Manoj Sanghane, Surat:

Discussion

1.30 PM 2.30 PM Lunch Break

2.30 PM 4.00 PM Session VI: Economics of Yield and Productivity

Speakers:

Mr. V. B. Karmarkar, Member, All India Organic and Biodynamic

Farming Association, Indore:

Mr. Jain, Indore: Cow Urine Therapy.

19

Mr. Shoor Virsingh, Organic farmer, Bijnore, Uttar Pradesh: Experiences

of Organic Farming.

Discussion

4.00 PM 4.30 PM Tea Break

4.30 PM 6.00 PM Session VII: Domestic Market Development

Speakers:

Ms.Rahemabee Sheikh, Lohgaon

Mr. Sharad Shah, ACE natural foods and fruits pvt ltd, Baroda: Domestic

Organic Markets: Problems and Prospects

Discussion

6.00 PM 7 PM Stakeholder Meetings for networking

- Dryland agriculture - Biodiversity - Domestic market development

23rd January, 2001

9.00 AM 11.30 AM Session VIII: Resources for Organic Farming: composting

Speakers:

Ms. Kantabai Waghmare, Takli

Dr. Kubra Bano, Department of Zoology, UAS, Bangalore: Role of

Vermicomposting in Organic Farming.

Mr. S. C. Talashilkar and others, Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli,

Maharashtra: Vermicompost and Vermiwash Boon to the Indian

Agriculture.

Mr. Rakesh Dubey, Biofarming Tech, Lucknow:

Mr. Thomas Abraham, Allahabad University:

11.00 AM - 11.30 AM Tea Break

11.30 AM - 1.30 PM Section IX: Organic Inputs: Supply and Demand

Speakers:

Mr. V. K. Mutatkar, Mumbai: Organic Input Resource for Organic

Farming.

Dr. B.N. Viswanath, Prof. Kadur A. Narayan Research Foundation, Kadur

Agro, Bangalore: Emerging Organic Input Industry.

Mr. Deepak Somayaji and Mr. M.C. Gopinathan, EID Parrys, Bangalore:

Agro-industrial Residues: A Potential Resource for Organic Agriculture.

Dr. Madan Deshpande, Institute of Vedic Studies, Akalkot, Maharashtra:

Agnihotra Agriculture.

Discussion

20

4.00 PM - 4.30 PM Tea Break

4.30 PM 6.00 PM Session X: Organic Standards, Inspection and Certification

Speakers:

Ms. Shivkanya Jhawar, Wahegaon: Community Inspection and

Certification.

Dr. Alexander Daniel, IIRD, Aurangabad: Organic Standards

Development.

Mr. D. Narasimha Reddy, Centre for Resource Education, Hyderabad:

Dr. Prabha Mahale, New Delhi: Organic Guarantee System.

Mr. Selvam Daniel, :

Discussion

24th

January, 2001

10 AM to 2 PM Delegates Conference

Dr. Daniel, IIRD, Aurangabad: Organic Movement in India Future.

Richa and Renu: Results of Survey conducted among delegates

Presentation

Group discussions on

Strategic Paper Framework of Action

Adoption of Bidkin Commitment

Concluding Remarks

Vote of Thanks

21

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS

Name Organisation & Address

1 Mahila Samata Society

2 Mahila Samata Society

3 Mahila Samata Society

4 Mahila Samata Society

5 Mahila Samata Society

6 Micheal group

7 Micheal group

8 Micheal group

9 Micheal group

10 A. Narayanan (Secretary) OASIS, 8/5A, Maharani Avenue, Vadavalli.

Coimbatore-641041

T.No: 0422-423017; Fax.No:0422-436780.

E-mail: against@nde.vsnl.net.in

11 A. S. Thakur 4, SATVAR STREET, Mogappair West, Chennai

- 600 058.

Tel: 044-6244211,6357850 Fax No: 044-650315

E-mail: Prepare@md2.vsnl.net.in

12 Ahmed, Mustak

13 Anil Kumar Gorakhpur

14 Arvind Malik

(farmer)

285 B, J & K Block,

Dilshat garden, Delhi. 110095

15 Asgar Hussain The Bombay Burmah Trading corpn. Ltd

Dunsandle Estate, Dunsandle P. O., Ootacamund-

643005 Nilgiris

Tel: 56610 Fax: 56715

16 B. Venkateshwarlu. CRIDA Santoshnagar Hyderabad 500059.

Tel:040-4530161.Fax No:040-4531802

E-mail: Vbandi@crida.ap.nic.in

17 Bhupender Shingh Farmer, TARIYA, Uttaranchal

18 Biju S.S. Allahabad Agricultural University,

Allahabad.211007 (U.P)

19 C. Ajith Kumar Development Consultant, B 15/4 Guru Ganesh

Nager, Phase II, Off: Pand road Kothrud Pune. 29

Tel: 020 5284585; Email: cajithk@yahoo.co.uk.

20 C. Byrappa

21 D. P. Singh International Development Enterprises, C-5/43

22

Name Organisation & Address

S.D.A. New Delhi-110016

22 Deepak Ramnik Acquilla Joint Director, Kari Kueble Foundation

219,Kalpana Nagar, Piplani, Bhopal-462021

T.No: 0755-754446;Fax No: 0755-758810

Email: kkidbhopal@satyam.net.in

23 Digraskar, Jayant

24 Dubey, Rajesh

25 G. Nanjundappa Senior farm superintendent , Main Research

Station.

University of Agri.Sciences, Hebbal, Bangalore-24

26 G. V. Malewar Baldhan, 4 Dadarao Layout,

Sambhaji Nagar Parbhani. (M.S.)

27 Girish Malwatkar

28 Gore, Abhilash

29 Guruprasand Satsangi Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Reader

Agri.Operation, DEI (Deemed University)

Dayalbagh, Agra.

Tel: 0562-281545/570169

30 H. R. Prabhudesai (ICAR Resaerch Centre Goa)

D/2-B, Govt Qts., St.Inez, Panaji Goa.403001.

31 H. V. Janardhan

32 Harish Tiwari

33 Hunugund, S. Y.

34 Jayaji Paikrao.

Ugam Gramin Vikas Sansthan Umra,

Tal.Kalamnuri. Dist: Hingoli, Maharashtra

35 Jayanna

36 Joseph, P. B.

37 K.Mohan Naidu (Advisor) Rajshree Sugars &Chemical

Ltd.1168.AvanashiRoad,

Coimbatore-641037.

Tel: 215376; Fax: 442-212285.

38 Kamal Jeet Natura India Research Council, New Delhi

39 Koshy John

40 Krantiprakash Muzzafpur BIHAR

23

Name Organisation & Address

41 Kantaraja APOF, Bangalore

42 Krishna Kumar V.

Senior Scientist, Indian Cardamon Research

Institute

E-mail: vkrishna2000@eth.net

43 Kubra Bano Dept of Zoology, College of B.S.&H, GKVK,

Bangalore-560 065

44 Kunkulol, Rahul, Dr.

45 Kutty Menon

46 Landge

47 M. Somashekhar Banjara Development Society, Flat No.103. Sai

Kiran Apartment Srinagar Colony, Hyderabad-

500073

Phone.No: 3746730.

48 Madan Deshpande Institute for Studies in Vedic Science, Shivpuri,

Akalkot

Dist: Solapur. C/o-S.S.Jaju, Flat No:1 Ushakal

Apartment Ulkanagari,Aurangabad.

P.No:323588; Mobile No: 9823028043 (Jaju)

49 Mishra, A. K

50 Monika Sharma

51 Ms. Renu Bhatt

Dept of FRM., College of Home Science, G.P.Pant

University of Agri.& Tech., Pantnagar-363145

Tel.No: 0599-34009.FaxNo:05944-34734.

52 Ms. Richa Deshwal Dept of FRM., College of Home Science, G.P.Pant

University of Agri.& Tech., Pantnagar-363145

Tel.No: 0599-34009.FaxNo:05944-34734.

53 Mukesh Varma Mukesh Varma Green Net, Varma House, 15 Dirit

Cross Road,No.1, Vile Parle (East), Mumbai-

400057.

Tel: 022-7548493- 7547927. Fax:022-7548483.

E-mail: mukesh@mukeshvarma.com

54 Narasimha Reddy

55 Narayanna, C. Madanapaddi

56 P. Mariaselvam Peoples Agricultural Farm

Pudukkottai Dist., Tamil Nadu

57 P. Sriniwas

Institute for Cultural Research & Action (ICRA)

SAMSKRUTI P.B.No.7551, No.22

24

Name Organisation & Address

MICHAEL, Palya New Thippasandra.

Banglore.

58 P. Thomas Varghese Scientist-In Charge NRCOP (ICAR)

PALODE-695562, TRIVANDRUM. Kerala.

Tel: 0472-840774. Fax: 0472-841206.

59 P. V. Shinde

60 Pande, Sudhir Gorakhpur

61 Parihale, Laxman

62 Peter Proctor E-mail: pproctor@inbb.Co.Nz or

p.Proct@inhb.co.nz

63 Pole, Subhistium

64 Pornevoy, Rachel

65 Prabha Mahale Ysindia

ysindia@giasedlol.vsnl.net in

66 Pratap Gobaji Patil Zep Building Vivekanandnagar, Bhadgaon

Road,Pachora Tal.

Dist: Jalgaon.Tel: 02596-40340.

67 R. C. Vyas

68 R. Chandrasekhar

Deputy Director, Spices Board, 2, Ramwadi

society,Ahmedabad-382481

Tel. 079-7531684 Fax 079-7531882[pp]

E-mail: spicesbroahd@satyam.net.in

69 R. D. Sable

70 R.V. Singh Researcher, Natural Research Management Unit.

Center for Science Environment 41, Tughlakabad.

Institutional area. New Delhi. 110062

71 Rajendra Konkul

72 Rajiv Kumar

73 Rambhau Shirode

74 Ramesh

Kumar

BIRDS, Gnanapuram,

Nandyal 508 502 Kurnool, Andhra Predesh

75 Ramesh Nayak.

Project Co-ordinator, Orissa Project, PREPARE,

4,SATVAR STREET, Mogappair West,Chennai-

25

Name Organisation & Address

600 058.

Tel: 044-6244211, 6357850, Fax No:044-650315

E-mail: Prepare@md2.vsnl.net.in

76 Ramesh Thorat International service society A Humanitarian

service of Vaishnava Center for Enlightenment,

India Rep 35 CCI Chambers, Bombay-400020

E-mail Shrikumar@vsnl.com

77 Rattanchand

78 Reddy, Ramesh Madanapaddi

79 Remigius Desouza Architech Planner, 69 Sultan building 243,

SB Marg,Mumbai.

80 S. Bhaskar.

Associate Professor of Agronomy, College of

Agriculture GKVK,Bangalore,-560 065.

81 S. G. Yellappa

82 S. K. Tiwari

83 S.C.Talashilkar Dapoli

Konkan Agri.University.

Ratnagiri (M.S.)

84 S.Ramesh 121A,Railway Colony Egmore, Chennai-600 008.

T.No: 6615682.

85 Sanghavi, Manoj

86 Sanjay Aggarwal

Maple Organic, 35,Gandhi Road, Dehradun,

Uttranchal-248001

87 Santosh Kumar Tata institute of social science

Rural Campas Tuljapur, Osmanabad dist.,

Maharahstra

88 Shahaji Narwade

Tata institute of social science

Rural Campas Tuljapur, Osmanabad dist.,

Maharahstra

89 Sharad Shah

ACE, Natural fruits &foods P.Ltd.205, Anurag

comm. Center

R.C.Dutt road, Baroda 390007

90 Sharma, Pramila, Dr. G. B. Pant University

Pantnagar, Uttaranchal

91 Sharma, Umanand

26

Name Organisation & Address

92 Shirole, Rambhau

93 Shoorvir Singh

94 Solanki Dr.

95 Subba Rao

96 Subhaschamel, Mathio

97 Sudhir K. Shukla

98 T. Abraham

Non formal education center, Allahabad

Agriculture Deemed Univercity, Allahabad-

211007 [U.P.]

99 T.V.R.S.Sharma

Director, NRCOP

PEDAVEGI-534450 A.P.

100 Takara, Shinji

101 Tigi Verghis Non formal education center, A.A.D.U.

Allahabad-211007 [U.P.]

102 Uday Kumar MSC Agri.KVK,Gandhigram,

Dindigul, Tamil Nadu

103 V. B. Karmakar

104 V. K. Dubey National Council for Development

Comminication. B 33-14/22Kushlesh Nager,

Sunderpur Varanashi-221005

105 V.C.Reddy

Associate Prof of Agronomy, College of

Agricultural G.K.V.K.Banglore 560065.

106 V.K.Mutatkar Agro Consultant 103, Uday Building Sector 15,

Navi Mumbai-400705.

T.No: 022-7661434.

107 Veeresh G. K

108 Vijay Dhasmana

RACHANA/SBMA 1226, Ashirwad Enclave,

Deharadun-248006

T.No.0135-620683 Fax-0135-763216

Email: rachnadd@vsnl.com

109 Virendra Jain

110 Vishwanath, Dr. APOF, Bangalore

27

Organic Farmers

1 Kantabai Waghmare 36 Husenabee Baig

2 Sakhubai Teke 37 Muninbee Rashidshaikh

3 Shashikala Barguje 38 Sakeenabee Sajeed

4 Taibai Shelke 39 Sumanbai Solunkar

5 Shakuntalabai Mule 40 Vimalbhai Solunkar

6 Manishabai Kshirsagar 41 Janabai Ughade

7 Kausabai Rathod 42 Padmabai Nage

8 Deobai Kalshakar 43 Babanbai More

9 Padmabai Chawan 44 Nirmala Bidhane

10 Nanda Waghchaure 45 Narmadabai dhobale

11 Rahimabee Shaikh 46 Shahnajbeee Shaikh

12 Haider Baig 47 Ahilyabai Mule

13 Kesarbai Aute 48 Hasnooorbee Shaikh

14 Shobha Nawale 49 Sunderbai Mapare

15 Sulekha Shaikh 50 Kashinath Teke

16 Radhabai Shelke 51 Sharadabai Gunjal

17 Yamunabai Rathod 52 Sarswatibai Gaikwad

18 Raju Upand 53 Kalyan P. Shelke

19 Subhas Jadhav 54 Shivkanya Zawar

20 Meerabai Ranshoor 55 Sangetta Ranshoor

21 Ushabai Galate 56 Shantabai Thorat

22 Meerabai Rathod 57 Saralabai Rathod

23 Shantilaal Chawan 58 Manohar Bohite

24 Vasant Wagh 59 Chandrakala Bobde

25 Sumanbai Mhaske 60 Kadubai Pathe

26 Ramabai Bhujang 61 Ranjanabai Naik

27 Sunil Gadhekar 62 Kaunmuddin Sayyed

28 Shaikh Rasul 63 Kashinath Waghmare

29 Gangubain galate 64 Bhamabai Dhanwate

30 Sonabai takwale 65 Nurjahan Shaikh

31 Chandrakala Joshi 66 Dropadabai Madake

32 Kausabai Rathod 67 Bhanudas Ghore

33 Gumphabai Mahajan 68 Sakharbai Kasar

34 Sarojini Mawas 69 Shobhabai Mule

35 Alkabai Dhandge 70 Janardhan Abashinde

71 Sheelabai Mapare