Anitha Pailoor
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She changed many a life
Anitha Pailoor |
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A few years ago, when Kallava Haklad used to grow only grains, the rains didn't add much to her low yield. Now that she has adopted integrated farming, the productivity of her farm has increased. And the shift has changed the fate of her family.
Indeed, Kallava Haklad has inspired many farmers around her village. The timely monsoons have brought cheer to the farmers of Dharwad. To make the most of the rain, Kallavva Haklad — of Kamplikoppa in Dharwad — is busy sowing in the field.
Kallavva was recognised by the Agricultural University, Dharwad as the 'distinct farm women' of the district for converting her barren land into a fertile one. She has inspired farmers in surrounding villages to adopt sustainable agriculture. She has set an example for small farmers in search of a better livelihood.
Shift to mixed-cropping
A few years ago Kallavva used to get only one quintal of jowar from her 3.5 acre farm. Two of her sons were working as bonded labourers in Kalawadi near Navalgund. But now things have changed. Her sons have returned home to join the farming activities. Adopting tree-based farming in the field has made all the difference. Now the land is fertile, resulting in increased productivity.
Kallavva has achieved food security by carefully choosing the crops to be grown in the wadi. Her farm has twelve varieties of plants like gliricidia, erithrina indica, sesbania, silver oak and neem. Ten different types of fodder are grown in the farm which not only feed her cattle but also help bring in money. She has two cows and a buffalo which are major sources of income.
Kallavva also grows sapota, cotton, soyabean, jowar, ragi, green gram, savi and many other grains apart from some fruits. Since she prefers mixed-cropping, she need not be anxious about the market.
The first step
After she ventured into organic farming, expenses have reduced and the yield has soared. Along with her husband Malleshappa, she makes organic manure for her farm through vermiculture. Rainwater harvesting structures like trenches and farm ponds help in collecting rainwater and have enhanced the water level in the farm.
To water plants in summer she uses a pot with a small hole in the bottom. Water drips into the soil through a coir rope inserted in the hole, thus helping to retain the plant's moisture level. The pot is drained once in five days. Thus Kallavva's farm doesn't depend on any external input including water resources.
Self-reliance
She has achieved self-reliance even in growing vegetables, although she never sells them. If there is plenty they are distributed among the neighbours and given to those who visit her. She grows around nine varieties of vegetables.
Kallavva says: “A woman usually takes care of the kitchen which is unproductive. I divide my time between the home and the farm. Agriculture is not just a man's job. Women are equally good. The entire family should co-ordinate to bring harmony between farming and living."
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