Subhash Palekar’s Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)
Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) is an innovative, low-cost, chemical-free farming method developed by Subhash Palekar, an Indian agriculturist. The approach aims to reduce dependency on external inputs like chemical fertilizers and pesticides, making farming more sustainable and economically viable for small farmers.
Core Principles of ZBNF
- Jeevamrutha – A natural soil-enriching microbial culture made from cow dung, urine, jaggery, pulse flour, and soil. It enhances soil fertility and promotes microbial activity.
- Beejamrutha – A seed treatment mixture that protects seeds from pests and diseases, increasing germination rates.
- Mulching – Covering the soil with organic materials like straw, leaves, or crop residues to conserve moisture and prevent weed growth.
- Waaphasa – Ensuring proper soil aeration to balance water and air content in the soil.
- Companion & Mixed Cropping – Growing multiple crops together to enhance biodiversity and improve soil fertility.
Benefits of ZBNF
✅ Cost-effective – No need for expensive fertilizers or pesticides.
✅ Soil Health Improvement – Enhances microbial activity, making soil fertile and productive.
✅ Higher Yield & Quality – Chemical-free crops with better nutrition and shelf life.
✅ Water Conservation – Reduces water usage due to mulching and better soil structure.
✅ Eco-friendly – Reduces pollution caused by chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Many states in India, including Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, have encouraged ZBNF as a sustainable alternative to modern industrial agriculture.
Vijayaram S.A.V.E Foundation
S.A.V.E (Sustainable Agricultural Village Enterprise) Foundation, founded by Vijayaram, is a social enterprise promoting sustainable, natural, and regenerative farming practices. The foundation focuses on:
- Reviving traditional farming techniques that align with nature.
- Training and empowering farmers to adopt eco-friendly and organic practices.
- Developing self-sufficient rural economies by promoting natural farming, indigenous seed preservation, and biodiversity conservation.
- Encouraging chemical-free, toxin-free food production for a healthier society.
- Integrating permaculture, agroforestry, and water conservation techniques for holistic rural development.
Vijayaram’s foundation works at the grassroots level, helping farmers transition from chemical farming to regenerative, nature-based agriculture, ensuring better income, food security, and environmental sustainability.
How These Can Align with Pureland Harvests?
Since Pureland Harvests focuses on organic, natural, and eco-friendly products, integrating ZBNF-based products and S.A.V.E Foundation’s sustainable agricultural models could:
✅ Enhance product authenticity & sustainability.
✅ Build trust among health-conscious consumers.
✅ Support small-scale farmers & rural communities.
✅ Offer chemical-free, premium-quality products.
Would you be interested in collaborating with such initiatives for sourcing ZBNF-produced oils, pulses, or other organic products for Pureland Harvests? 🌱🚜