Andhra Pradesh Excels in Natural Farming, Secures Multiple National Awards

In a remarkable feat that underscores the state's commitment to sustainable agriculture, the Rythu Sadhikara Samstha (RySS) of Andhra Pradesh has once again garnered national recognition for its strides in promoting natural farming. The International Competence Centre for Organic Agriculture (ICCOA), based in Greater Noida, organized the Jaivik India Awards, where Andhra Pradesh emerged victorious in multiple categories.

Andhra Pradesh's dedication to advancing natural farming practices has earned the state the prestigious first-place award in the "States Promoting Natural Farming" category. This acknowledgement comes as a testament to the state's exceptional efforts in scaling up and implementing large-scale natural farming initiatives. With over 8 lakh farmers embracing natural farming practices, Andhra Pradesh stands as a frontrunner in promoting sustainable agriculture on such a massive scale.

The recognition doesn't stop there. Andhra Pradesh has also clinched awards in two other noteworthy categories. The state's government has been selected for the coveted "Best Government" award for its unwavering support and facilitation of the extensive natural farming program.

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Ganimisetti Padmaja, hailing from Chimatavari Palem village in the Yaddanapudi mandal of Bapatla district, has been celebrated in the "Best Natural Farming, Women" category. With four years of dedicated practice in organic farming, Padmaja's contributions have earned her a spotlight as a model farmer. Her dedication not only embodies the essence of sustainable farming but also inspires others to follow suit.

In the "Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)" category, the spotlight shines on the Attalurupalem Organic Farmers Producer Company Limited, located in Attaluru village within the Amaravathi mandal. This FPO's exceptional efforts have secured them the top award in their category, showcasing their commitment to driving organic farming at a collective level.

Furthermore, Vijay Kumar, the Executive Vice-Chairman of RySS, has been bestowed with the illustrious Dr. MS Swaminathan Award for Environment Protection. This prestigious accolade, presented annually by the Rotary Club of Madras East, recognizes individuals or organizations that have made exceptional contributions to environmental preservation. Vijay Kumar's remarkable achievements in advancing sustainable agricultural practices have earned him this esteemed honor.

The ceremony to felicitate the winners is scheduled to take place on September 6th in Madras, where Vijay Kumar will receive the Dr. MS Swaminathan Award for Environment Protection. This recognition not only highlights the accomplishments of the awardees but also underscores the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture and environmental conservation on a larger scale.

Andhra Pradesh's consistent efforts to champion natural farming, its unwavering support from the government, the dedication of model farmers like Ganimisetti Padmaja, and the collective impact of organizations like the Attalurupalem Organic Farmers Producer Company Limited continue to set an inspiring example for the nation in the realm of sustainable agriculture.

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