Andhra Pradesh’s Wins Gulbenkian Prize for Natural Farming Model

In a significant recognition of innovative agricultural practices, the Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF) initiative has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity. This accolade not only highlights India’s progress in sustainable farming but also places Andhra Pradesh on the global map for its pioneering efforts in eco-friendly agriculture.

The Gulbenkian Prize: Recognizing Global Change-Makers

About the Award

The Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity is an esteemed award instituted by the Portugal-based Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation (CGF). It is presented annually to individuals and organizations making substantial contributions to:

• Global food security
• Climate resilience
• Ecosystem protection

The 2024 Recipients

This year, the one million euro prize is shared among three recipients:

1. Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF)
2. Renowned soil scientist Rattan Lal
3. SEKEM, an Egyptian conglomeration of NGOs and businesses

Selection Process

• 181 nominations were received from 117 nationalities
• The jury was chaired by Dr. Angela Merkel, former German Chancellor

APCNF: A Model of Sustainable Agriculture

Program Overview

The APCNF is a statewide initiative supporting smallholder farmers in transitioning from chemically intensive agriculture to ‘natural farming’. Key aspects include:

• Using organic residues
• Minimizing tillage to improve soil health
• Reintroducing indigenous seeds
• Diversifying crops, including trees

Inception and Objectives

Launched in 2016 by the Government of Andhra Pradesh. Its aimed at finding sustainable solutions to farmers’ distress caused by:

• Economic crises in agriculture
• Climate change challenges

Impressive Reach and Impact

According to Vijay Kumar Thallam, Executive Vice-Chairman of Rythu Sadhikara Samstha:

• The initiative has reached out to 10 lakh farmers in the state
• Women self-help groups have played a crucial role in its success

The Power of Natural Farming

Climate Resilience and Livelihood Enhancement

Mr. Thallam emphasizes the multifaceted benefits of natural farming:

• Improves farmers’ livelihoods
• Enhances people’s health
• Provides resilience against climate change

Future Goals

The APCNF has ambitious plans:

• Aims to reach all 8 million farmer households in Andhra Pradesh over the next decade
• Inspire replication in other regions

A Farmer’s Perspective: Nettem Nagendramma’s Story

Personal Journey

Nettem Nagendramma, a small farmer from Ghantapuram village in Anantapur, shares her experience:

• Initially skeptical about natural farming
• Realized its importance after addressing her daughter’s vision deficiency through this method

From Practitioner to Mentor

Nagendramma’s journey with APCNF:

• Became a Champion Farmer Coach in 2019
• Promoted the initiative among other farmers
• Elevated to Model Master Trainer in 2023, mentoring trainers across the district

Expanding Horizons: APCNF’s Growing Influence

National Impact

Andhra Pradesh’s success is inspiring change beyond its borders:

• Supporting 12 other states in India to adopt similar practices

International Aspirations

For 2024-25, the state has ambitious plans:

• Sending farmers to five different countries
• Aim to spread natural farming practices globally