Anantapur welcomed an international delegation led by Nalin Kishor, Senior Advisor at World Bank. The two-day visit, beginning with an exploration of nature farming fields in Chola Samudram village, aimed to assess the impact of the state's pioneering natural farming initiatives on soil fertility, rural migration, and climate change management.
World Bank's Transformative Initiatives
The delegation, spearheaded by Nalin Kishor, delved into the heart of Anantapur's agricultural landscape to witness the outcomes of innovative natural farming techniques. The tour included a visit to Shankaraiah's farm, where the delegation marveled at the results achieved in just two and a half years, notably the accelerated production of sugarcane compared to the conventional five-year timeframe.
World Bank Engaging with Local Communities
The delegation's interaction with farmers and women's groups at the Rytu Bharosa Kendra (RBK) provided valuable insights into the role of women's groups in the implementation of the natural farming program. Sheikh Majeed Alakh Assimi of the Sharjah royal family, Walter Link from Italy, and Yazen Al Kodmani actively engaged with the local community, seeking to understand the grassroots impact of the initiatives.
Global Expertise Converges
The delegation, comprising international luminaries like Walter Link, Sheikh Majeed Alakh Assimi, and associates like Yazen Al Kodmani, brought a wealth of global expertise. Additionally, senior World Bank advisors Ashok Vaish and Deshdeep Sahadev, both from America, enriched the discourse with insights on rural development, poverty alleviation, and environmental protection.
World Bank's Nalin Kishor's Vision
Highlighting the visit, Nalin Kishor underscored the potential of the innovative programs implemented in the state. The emphasis was on creating a sustainable model that not only enhances agricultural productivity but also addresses broader socio-economic and environmental challenges faced by the community.
APCNF Project in Focus
RySS thematic lead K Suresh shed light on the efforts driving the Andhra Pradesh Community-Based Natural Farming (APCNF) Project. The project aims to not only revolutionise farming techniques but also uplift the rural populace by creating a symbiotic relationship between agriculture, environmental conservation, and poverty alleviation.
