ICT SEEDS project

The Cauvery River is the lifeblood of Tamil Nadu's agriculture and flows in a south-easterly direction for 475 miles (765 km) through Karnataka then Tamil Nadu where it breaks into a large number of distributaries creating a beautiful and wide delta known as the "garden of southern India." It is celebrated for its scenery and sanctity in Tamil literature and its entire course is considered holy ground. Both states rely on the Cauvery River for their water supply and have ongoing disputes – especially during periods of drought – over water access. With use expected to double by the year 2025 and with the continued threat of global warming, it is vital that sensible and sustainable methods are implemented to protect the future of Tamil Nadu’s people.

A SEEDS Scientist, demonstrates 'Cow-horn technology' - an effective bio-dynamic agricultural additive used to promote the growth of organic crops amongst Indian farmers

SEEDS Trust have a first-hand knowledge of the desperation resulting from drought situations and aims to provide “Sustainable agriculture involving the successful management of resources for agriculture to satisfy changing human needs while maintaining or enhancing the quality of the environment and conserving natural resources.” These principles are admirable but necessary and Raj Kumar, Managing Trustee of SEEDS, is one person who can be realistic about the project outcome. He has a natural kinship with the farming communities involved and has gained considerable knowledge of the areas potential.

One of SEEDS major programmes in Tamil Nadu is to transform 750 acres of semi-desert wasteland into a sustainable area capable of providing farming communities with a level of sustenance and income. They are being transformed by reducing soil infertility through atmospheric nitrogen fixation enabling secure economic returns through fuelwood, fodder, small timber and fruit growing.

Through the centuries farmers have developed a rich heritage of eco-friendly ‘organic’ technologies resulting in big harvests without disturbing the overall ecological balance. However, after 1950, farmers were encouraged to develop ‘modern’ technologies that included the use of hybrid seeds, chemical fertilisers, pesticides, insecticides, etc. However, it soon became apparent that these new technologies failed to maintain Nature’s own harmony and balance whilst also forcing farmers to become more and more dependent on the government and external companies.

The SEEDS project exists to reverse this tragic situation by disseminating knowledge throughout communities about the alternatives available that can be organically home-grown. These include composting, bio-waste and biomass techniques that increase farm-based production, promote conservation efforts and enhance local food security.

*Onaway started supporting the ICT ‘Tree-Planting Programme’ during the late nineties through the International Childcare Trust, ICT, based in London. All projects are managed in direct partnership with local groups that consist of at least fifty-percent women in the decision-making processes.

"You must be the change you wish to see in the world." Ghandi

The Onaway Trust is a registered charity - number 268448.