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:
- Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF)
- Renowned soil scientist Rattan Lal
- 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