SUSTAINABLE CITIES & COMMUNITIES

As the world races to combat climate change, every activity we undertake—from air travel to the simplest act of using a mobile phone—contributes to carbon emissions. While achieving a zero-emission reality remains a distant goal, carbon credits offer a pragmatic and promising solution. These tradable permits allow companies to offset their unavoidable emissions by investing in projects that either prevent carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere or actively remove it. For every tonne of carbon dioxide offset, one carbon credit is issued, creating a robust mechanism for funding sustainable initiatives.

Governments, corporations, and organizations worldwide are increasingly leveraging carbon credits to drive investments into green projects, including forest conservation and sustainable agriculture. In this landscape, managed farmlands have emerged as a powerful yet underutilized asset in the fight against climate change.

The Carbon Market: A Growing Opportunity

The global voluntary carbon market is projected to soar to $50 billion by 2030, according to the World Bank. While forests, which cover nearly 31% of the Earth’s land, have traditionally dominated the carbon credit conversation, agricultural land—accounting for about 38% of global land use—presents an untapped potential. Through sustainable farming practices, agricultural lands can transform into carbon sinks, capturing atmospheric carbon while revitalizing ecosystems.

India, where agriculture forms the backbone of the economy, is uniquely poised to lead this transformation. The government is championing sustainable farming practices to address challenges such as overreliance on chemical inputs and the unsustainable use of natural resources. These initiatives not only align with the nation’s climate goals but also offer a new revenue stream for farmers willing to embrace change.

Carbon Credits and Global Climate Goals

Carbon credits are critical to achieving the Paris Agreement’s objective of limiting global warming to below 2°C, with an aspirational target of 1.5°C. Article 6 of the agreement provides a framework for international carbon markets, enabling countries and corporations to trade emissions reductions. By investing in carbon credits, businesses and nations contribute to global climate goals while offsetting their carbon footprint—a win-win scenario for the planet and the economy.

Transforming Agriculture with Sustainable Practices

Sustainable agricultural practices such as regenerative farming, agroecology, and climate-resilient agriculture offer multi-faceted benefits:

Environmental Gains: Improved soil microbial health, enhanced water resource availability, increased biodiversity, and ecosystem restoration.

Economic Benefits: Reduced dependence on costly chemical inputs, increased yields, and access to premium markets for sustainably produced food.

Healthier soils, enriched with organic carbon, yield healthier crops while reducing post-harvest losses. Crop diversification, a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, not only ensures food security but also mitigates risks from pests and diseases.

Case Study: Karnataka’s Afforestation Success

The transformative potential of sustainable farming is exemplified by a 10-year afforestation project in Bagepalli, Karnataka. Local farmers planted fruit and fodder trees—mango, cashew, and tamarind—on degraded lands. Despite early challenges, including low sapling survival due to erratic weather, the adoption of climate-resilient techniques improved survival rates by 40%.

The project, certified under the Gold Standard for the Global Goals, sequestered substantial greenhouse gases, earning 91,092 carbon credits. This translated into significant financial gains: ₹26.18 crore in 2019 and ₹4.4 crore in 2021. These funds empowered local families, revitalized degraded lands, and advanced global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focused on responsible resource use, climate action, and ecosystem restoration.

The Green Credit Programme: Amplifying Impact

India’s Green Credit Programme (GCP), an initiative aligned with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), complements carbon credits by incentivizing green activities such as tree plantation, water management, sustainable agriculture, and waste management. Projects generating green credits can simultaneously earn carbon credits, creating dual revenue streams. Managed farmlands stand to benefit immensely from this synergistic opportunity.

The Promise of Managed Farmlands

Managed farmlands hold unparalleled potential in addressing both climate change and food security challenges. By adopting sustainable practices, farmers can:

Sequester Carbon: Boost soil organic carbon and actively reduce atmospheric CO2 levels.

Enhance Productivity: Improve soil health and biodiversity for higher and more sustainable yields.

Access Premium Markets: Cater to a growing consumer base seeking sustainably produced food.

Empower Communities: Generate financial and social benefits, particularly for marginalized groups.

Conclusion: A New Frontier for Farmers

The integration of carbon credits with managed farmlands is not just an environmental imperative but also an economic opportunity waiting to be seized. By embracing sustainable farming practices, farmers can unlock significant revenue streams while mitigating climate risks.

With the voluntary carbon market set to expand exponentially in the coming years, the time is ripe for farmers, policymakers, and businesses to collaborate. The question is no longer whether managed farmlands can play a role in climate mitigation but rather: Is your land ready to cash in on this billion-dollar opportunity?

“Waste is not waste, until we waste it.” – Will.i.am

What if waste isn’t the property of objects but a result of our actions and mindset? This thought-provoking idea challenges conventional views, redefining waste as untapped potential rather than discarded remnants.

Aligned with sustainability principles and the circular economy, this perspective urges us to see waste not as a dead-end but as a resource waiting to be utilized. Circular farming exemplifies this vision, turning agricultural by-products into valuable inputs, mimicking nature’s regenerative cycles.

By shifting from linear consumption to a regenerative model, industries like agriculture can revolutionize resource efficiency, transforming waste into opportunity. It’s a bold reminder that sustainability starts with reimagining how we value the materials around us.

What are Circular Farming Systems?

Circular agriculture is a forward-thinking farming approach focused on reducing waste, optimizing resources, and fostering a regenerative production cycle. By mirroring natural ecosystems, it ensures the continuous reuse of water, nutrients, and energy within agricultural systems, paving the way for sustainable and efficient food production practices.

Circular agriculture offers a transformative approach to farming, anchored in five core principles that aim to harmonize sustainability with productivity:

1. Reduce Resource Input

By embracing regenerative agriculture and renewable energy, this principle minimizes resource use while maximizing yields. Techniques like solar panels and biogas systems reduce emissions, lower costs, and even create new income streams for farmers, setting a benchmark for efficient resource management.

2. Close Nutrient Loops

Nutrient recycling is at the heart of circular farming. Organic waste is turned into valuable resources through composting, biogas production, and innovative technologies like anaerobic digestion and biochar. These practices replenish soil health, combat pollution, and promote waste-free agriculture.

3. Reduce and Repurpose Waste

Circular farming redefines waste as a valuable resource. Crop residues become bioenergy, food scraps transform into animal feed, and waste is upcycled into compost or new products. This not only minimizes landfill impact but also drives economic growth and profitability.

4. Regenerate Natural Ecosystems

This principle focuses on restoring and enhancing natural ecosystems. Agroforestry and integrated pest management improve soil health, boost biodiversity, ensure ecological balance, supporting sustainable farming practices.

5. Foster Collaboration Across the Supply Chain

Collaboration is key to achieving a closed-loop system. Farmers, processors, retailers, and consumers work together to minimize waste, optimize production, and encourage sustainable habits across the supply chain.

Circular agriculture is more than a farming method—it’s a blueprint for a sustainable future.

The Fertilizer Dilemma: Why India Must Transition to Regenerative Agriculture 

India’s fertilizer consumption has surged from 19 million metric tons in 2020 to an astounding 60 million tons in 2023-24. This dramatic rise underscores the pressing need for sustainable agricultural practices that minimize dependency on synthetic inputs while mitigating their environmental toll.

Managed farmlands, with a focus on regenerative farming, offer a viable path forward. By adopting circular farming systems, we can address inefficiencies in industrial agriculture practices and pave the way for a zero-waste future. For example, replacing chemical fertilizers with organic alternatives like farm compost and manure not only enhances soil health but also curbs groundwater contamination.

This shift toward sustainability isn’t just necessary—it’s vital for securing agriculture’s future and protecting the planet.

Rethinking Agriculture: Cultivating a World Where Nothing Goes to Waste 

Managed farmlands represent the future of sustainable agriculture, where innovation meets nature to create thriving ecosystems. These farms transform waste into opportunity, turning crop residues into bioenergy, organic waste into nutrient-rich compost, and by-products into valuable resources. Even the pruned stems & branches of trees are converted into valuable Biochar and put into soil, thereby ensuring circular farming. Through circular farming systems, they minimize resource dependency, optimize efficiency, and regenerate soil and biodiversity. Imagine a world where every farm operates as a zero-waste hub, producing healthy food while healing the Earth. 

Managed farmlands not only address environmental challenges but also inspire a global shift towards conscious consumption and responsible resource use. By adopting regenerative practices, we can build a future where agriculture doesn’t deplete but replenishes. Together, let’s embrace the bold vision of zero-waste farming by 2030—where every action on the farm contributes to a greener, healthier planet. 

So, let’s rethink our habits of consumption and disposal, and transform “waste’ into nourishment.

Author – Srinivas Abhilash

3 Mins Read

Do you long for the joy of gardening or farming, but feel overwhelmed by setbacks, limited space, or lack of experience? Maybe you’ve already tried your hand at it, but struggle with finding land, managing water, choosing crops, or securing reliable labor. Whatever your hurdle, you’re not alone.

Gardening and farming should be sources of fulfillment, not frustration. Yet, in today’s world, they can feel like demanding jobs with infinite micro-management and uncertainty.

But take a breath! Managed Farmlands offers a tailor-made solution to these challenges. It’s more than just a space, it’s a haven of comfort, convenience, safety, and rewarding agricultural experiences.

Join us as we explore why embracing the concept of Managed Farmlands could be the perfect step toward achieving your gardening and farming dreams, regardless of scale.

In the past, joint families and robust communities eased the farming burden. However, in today’s nuclear family setup and scarcity of farm labor, urbanites face immense stress in solitary farming endeavors, hindering the joy that farming and large-scale gardening should ideally bring.

The need to decentralize and democratize farming on a larger scale is evident. Encouraging numerous individuals to contribute in smaller quantities across spread-out spaces would benefit everyone involved.

Managed Farmlands make farming easier. They save money, help share work, and make it more enjoyable. These places are great for city folks starting farming. They solve worries about getting land, workers, or looking after it. They make farming fun without the hard parts. Want to know more? Let’s uncover and find out together.

1. Professional Management: Managed farmlands are under the supervision of skilled agricultural professionals who oversee the entire spectrum of farming operations, from planting to harvesting. This encompasses comprehensive management involving pest control, land, water management, etc. Their expertise guarantees meticulous care for your farm and plantations, encompassing crucial tasks such as regular pest management, fertigation, nutrient management, mulching, and various other essential agricultural practices.
2. Hassle-Free Farming: For busy individuals seeking a farming outlet, managed farmlands offer a convenient solution by eliminating the necessity for constant supervision. Even during adverse weather conditions like heavy rain or extreme drought, a team of farm experts remains on-site to diligently oversee and safeguard your plantations. Daily, timely care is provided to all the plantations on your farmland, ensuring their well-being. With this arrangement, you can savor the rewards of farming without having to dedicate extensive time and effort.
3. Learning Opportunity: Even if you’re not a seasoned farmer, managed farmlands provide a learning platform. Engage with experts, understand various agricultural techniques, and witness firsthand the farming process. 
4. Access to Technology: These farms frequently integrate modern technologies like advanced sensors, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. These innovative methods optimize productivity and anticipate changing weather patterns, ensuring that your farming experience is effective, efficient, and fruitful.
5. Diverse Crop Choices: Managed farmlands provide a diverse range of crops and plants available for cultivation, including options like agro and food forests, medicinal plants, fruits and veggies, extensive timber plantations, and more. Explore your agricultural interests by cultivating your preferred produce or experimenting with new crops on these farms.
6. Community Engagement: Numerous managed farmland projects actively promote community among participants. By engaging with like-minded individuals, you have the opportunity to share knowledge, experiences, and expertise, fostering a supportive farming network. Being part of such a community not only enhances your farming endeavors but also contributes to bolstering social connections and mental well-being. It’s an environment where collaboration and shared interests create a nurturing and fulfilling farming experience.
7. Environmental Sustainability: Adopt sustainable farming practices without solely shouldering the implementation burden. By capitalizing on economies of scale, you can slash monthly maintenance expenses. These farms prioritize eco-friendly methods such as organic farming, permaculture, and regenerative farming. They aim to enhance soil quality, boost the groundwater table, and curtail soil erosion. These practices foster biodiversity, effectively contributing to the farm’s sustainable maintenance. 
8. Safety and Security:  Investing in managed farmlands assures safety and security through expert management that actively mitigates risks associated with theft, pests, and natural calamities. The deployment of CCTV cameras, well-maintained roads, solar street lights, and sturdy boundary walls and fencing effectively protects and supervises your property and crops. This ensures an uninterrupted safe and secure environment throughout the year, every hour, day or night.
9. Financial Returns:  Apart from convenience, managed farmlands offer potential financial gains through long-term land appreciation. You can enjoy the yields without the daily responsibilities of farming, alongside reaping tax benefits. This overall financial advantage underscores the value of investing in these farmlands.
10. Peaceful Retreat: Escape the urban hustle to serene farmlands. Experience the joy of nature, unwind in green spaces, and relish the calming effects of agricultural surroundings.

Conclusion

Managed farmlands offer an extraordinary opportunity for urban gardening and farming enthusiasts, providing a hassle-free yet deeply fulfilling experience. These lands act as a bridge, accommodating both beginners and experienced enthusiasts, catering to your farming passion amidst urban constraints. 

Reflect on the multitude of benefits these managed farmlands provide, paving the way for your farming aspirations to flourish effortlessly. The earlier you invest, the more advantageous it becomes – not only with lower prices but also the potential for substantial land price appreciation and crop yield. 

Don’t hesitate; act now and invest in Managed Farmlands and watch your future prosper—both tangibly and intangibly. Your journey towards sustainable farming and financial prosperity starts here. 

Bengaluru, once known for its serene lakes and gardens, has transformed into India’s bustling IT hub. With an anticipated growth rate of 6% in 2023, the city grapples with burgeoning population density, soaring from 2,985 to 4,378 individuals per square kilometer between 2001 and 2011 projecting a trajectory of higher population density in future realized the urban uplifters demand for increased personal spaces. This rapid urbanization strains infrastructure, triggering traffic congestion, inadequate public transport, and a housing shortfall. The influx of residents intensifies demands for housing and commercial spaces, potentially propelling a surge in real estate and construction. While this expansion brings forth opportunities, including job prospects for locals and a potential economic upturn, Bengaluru faces the challenge of balancing growth with sustainable urban planning. It’s crucial to ensure development aligns with the evolving needs of its growing population. 

It is not just the exploding population, but the demographics that makes the earning potential of the influx that is propelling the growth for Bengaluru. The need for larger and greener spaces is what makes land the best investment for the decade. Also, with a depreciating rupee and rise in income levels, land is the only asset that is a perfect hedge against inflation and being an asset that has limited inventory will only make it the safest investment.   

CITY ZONING 

The zoning in Bengaluru provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving landscape, impacting the potential for resource availability and land appreciation. The city is segmented into distinctive zones, each exhibiting varying degrees of development and growth potential. 

Central Zone: High land values and limited availability have saturated the central area, restricting further expansion. The scarcity of land has shifted development towards luxury apartments. This indicates that a significant portion of the investment is directed towards depreciating structures rather than appreciating assets like land 

East Zone: East Bengaluru is witnessing substantial growth with a rise in residential supplies, driven by the presence of IT-ITeS companies and available land parcels. This fosters new developments. The upcoming KHIR city in the north/east zones also indicates promising potential for future land investments.” 

South Zone: South Bengaluru, with the second-highest new residential supply, is growing due to abundant land, a booming IT sector, industrial developments, and proposed infrastructure upgrades like the metro rail. This area sees a rise in mid-segment residential activities. The expansion has led to the conversion of green belt zones to yellow belt zones, allowing agricultural land to be used for commercial activities. This suggests a significant potential for investing in agricultural lands, which have a higher appreciation potential compared to residential or commercial lands.  

West Zone: West Bengaluru, with fewer new projects than other zones, is transitioning from independent bungalows to upscale apartments. Apart from the Peenya industrial area, no significant developments are anticipated in this region. Hence, it is often the least preferred choice for investors 

North Zone: North Bengaluru, set for significant growth, is the center of proposed projects like ITIR, aerospace SEZs, and business parks. With 25 mega tech parks planned, most promoting the ‘Walk to Work’ concept, it’s poised to transform. Its proximity to the airport, expressway, and metro rail, along with affordable land parcels and infrastructure enhancements, boosts its growth potential. Envisioned as a self-sustained satellite town, it offers substantial investment opportunities.              

The diverse nature of Bengaluru’s zones and Land use dynamics hints at unrealistic urban and development trajectories, influencing future land and resource availability within the city leading to a surge in demand for land on the city’s periphery. As residents climb the socio-economic ladder, land is seen not just as property, but an experiential asset. It’s a space for relaxation, family time, hobbies, farming, and sustainable living. This shift adds depth to land’s utility, transforming it into a source of enrichment. 

Interestingly, Bengalureans are now seeking farmland, envisioning it as a prospective home and a sanctuary for creating resources for the future. This stems from an aspiration to create a life-centric experience, immersing themselves in nature’s bounty. 

This trend reflects a mindset shift towards harmonious coexistence with nature. It’s about creating a sustainable future where resources are nurtured and replenished. It’s about building homes that are ecosystems teeming with life. It’s about transforming the urban landscape, one farmland at a time. This is the new Bengaluru – a city dreaming of green expanses even as it expands its concrete horizons. 

Farmland appreciation Trends in Bengaluru (2001-2016)

The study conducted by H. V. Harishkumar and B. V. Chinnappa Reddy sheds light on the fascinating trends of farmland appreciation in various areas around Bengaluru from 2001 to 2016. 

In the Bengaluru urban area, an astonishing pattern emerges as farmland values surged, tripling every five years since 2001. Notably, between 2006 and 2011, the highest percentage increase occurred. This surge was attributed to pivotal infrastructural developments like the establishment of the international airport in 2008, along with the enhancement of roadways such as the signal-free corridor on an elevated expressway and the expansion of NH7 to six lanes from Hebbal to Devanahalli airport. 

Peri-urban Bengaluru, witnessing rapid growth due to the presence of the international airport, experienced a remarkable fourfold increase in farmland values during 2002-06 and 2007-12.  The most substantial surge in land values occurred between 2001-2006, spurred by anticipations of future developments in the area. 

Contrastingly, Bengaluru’s rural areas exhibited lower land values due to minimal urban influence. However, between 2006-11, these areas witnessed the highest percentage increase in land values, hinting at substantial potential for appreciation in the future when urbanization gains momentum. 

The study highlights crucial insights. Developmental activities near farmland trigger the highest appreciation and following this appreciation. Furthermore, peri-urban areas highlight more potential for appreciation compared to urban areas, where prices have already reached saturation levels. 

Understanding these trends is critical for investors and stakeholders in the real estate sector, guiding strategic decisions in land acquisition and development. The study’s findings provide valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of farmland appreciation, guiding future investments and development strategies in and around Bengaluru. 

“Unlocking Bengaluru’s Farmland Potential: Invest Smart with Hosachiguru” 

Hosachiguru presents an unparalleled opportunity for asset appreciation, an ideal weekend retreat, and an opportunity to lead a sustainable lifestyle by growing your own food and staying amidst a like-minded community of green enthusiasts. Seamlessly connect with nature while securing your investment amidst Bengaluru’s expanding zones. Our cherry-picked locations ensure clear legal titles, sufficient water, and excellent quality soil. The apt locations of Hosachiguru for growth align with the trends highlighted by H. V. Harishkumar and B. V. Chinnappa Reddy’s study, emphasizing developmental proximity as a catalyst for maximum appreciation. Embrace the tranquil farm life, envisage future gains, and relish the perfect blend of rural serenity with urban convenience.

Hosachiguru has also earned the trust of over 1500+ community members who are living a green life. The company has the highest rating amongst its peers and are the largest farmland management company in India with over 500+ staff members. Hosachiguru farmlands have appreciated between 10%-25% per annum across projects over the last decade and have been a source of food and a wealth of experience for the Co-farmer community members.  

References

1. FARM LAND VALUES AND PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT IN RURAL – URBAN CONTINUUM OF BENGALURU NORTH – H. V. Harishkumar and B. V. Chinnappa Redd 
2. City of oportunities that promote walk to work , Oct 2008 
3. Revised Master Plan for Bengaluru-2031 

Everybody’s story begins with “once upon a time” and it’s up to an individual to cherish the time given and build something to ensure happily ever after.

This is the story of Bhaskar, co-founder of a tech startup living in urban Bangalore. Buried in excel sheets and meeting deadlines, Bhaskar always thought of creating a second home for his family. But building something like that can be a tough decision as numerous crucial points need to be evaluated. After doing the due research, Bhaskar found out about Hoschiguru. Along with being a co-founder, he also became a co-farmer at Hosachiguru. He chose to grow his food forest. He not only built a legacy for his children but also made a sustainable haven for his parents. With Hosachiguru’s food forest, he is also contributing to the environment in a bigger picture. With this investment, Bhaskar can create, nurture and restore the natural biodiversity and ecology. He doesn’t have to free up his schedule to supervise what is happening on the farm. With smart technology- MyFarm app, he can get the reports, ask experts and monitor the yields from his phone, based in real-time.

Modern family life can be stressful and chaotic with various pressures on families. It’s not always easy. Nurturing the physical, emotional, and social development of children can be an uphill battle when you are stuck at work all day. With his sustainable food forest, he has gained something far more valuable- quality time with his family. This has given him a chance to strengthen the bond between himself and his children. The family has indulged in a variety of activities at the farm which has cemented their relationships. The time together has positively impacted the whole family. Bhaskar has felt a change in his personality, life choices, and overall behavior. Not only in his personal life but also in his professional life he is going that extra mile to achieve his goals. Taking some time off and spending it in the Hosachiguru farms has also impacted the strength of their social, physical, mental, and emotional health. This venture had something or the other for his whole family.

Bhaskar has ensured a happily ever after, for his family, you can too. Think about it!

Author: Nihal Anand

Many things come to one’s mind when one thinks of bees. That singular buzz in the air. The prick of the sting. The sweet smell and taste of the honey. And every child’s worst nightmare, those huge honeycombs hanging off trees. As children, we all read about how twelve worker bees would come together to produce one tablespoon of honey. While that is certainly an astonishing fact, what must also be noted is that bees are multitaskers by nature. While it’s possible (though not desirable) to imagine a world without honey, we cannot and should not be compelled to imagine a world without bees. For instance, one-third of our global food supply relies on pollinators like bees, and a world without these workaholics would face acute food shortage.Bees as Environmental Service Providers:

It takes more than just the soil, water and sunlight to facilitate food production. At least 30% of the crops, and 90% of plants in general, require cross-pollination to spread and thrive. Enter bees, our perfect pollinators. Pollination is the unity of the male pollen grain with the female egg cell. Through their pollination odysseys, bees are responsible for the production of many seeds, nuts, berries and fruits which serve as a vital food source to humans and a variety of wild animals. Without them, our gardens would be bare, our plates empty and our ecological balance disturbed.

Bees indeed play a vital part in every aspect of the ecosystem by restoring biological

diversity. They contribute largely to complex, interconnected ecosystems that allow a diverse number of species to coexist.

V.V. Belavadi, a scientist at the University of Agricultural Sciences, says India is home to nearly 796 species of bees with 40% of them endemic to the country. Unfortunately, the population of bees has been declining rapidly over the last few decades. Research at NABARD, the National Bee Board, and state agriculture departments, suggests that bees are dying from a variety of factors like pesticides, drought, habitat destruction, nutrition deficit, air pollution, global warming and more. All of these causes are of anthropogenic origin, which means it is we who are responsible for the two most prominent causes in the aforementioned list, namely pesticides and habitat loss.

How can we save the diminishing Bee population?

A natural, effective, and preventive measure would be to adopt organic farming practices in farmlands. Organic farming practices are environmentally friendly and prevent the use of harmful pesticides. Natural solutions such as compost are not only beneficial to soil health, but also mitigate potential damage to the ecosystem.

With deforestation as a consequence of the steady urbanization on the rise, one can help bolster bee habitats by preserving the existing trees and undertaking tree plantation in their area. Creating dense food forests and agroforests enables cross-pollination and can facilitate new habitats for the bee population to thrive in. No matter where one lives or what one does, there is always a way to do your bit for the bees, whilst keeping a safe distance from their sting. If everyone does their part, all of us win—bees, plants, and people, and can all work together to restore biodiversity by coexisting sustainably. A fascinating fact presented by Bee Careful, an initiative of the Hero Group says “20,000 bees swarming out of a hive several times in a day, could pollinate over 20 million flowers each day”.

If nothing else, at least for the sake of aesthetics, let’s be nice to bees.

References:

• Neff, J.L. & B. B. Simpson. 1993. Bees, pollination systems and plant diversity. In Hymenoptera and Biodiversity. J. LaSalle & I.D. Gauld, Eds.: 143–167. CAB International. Wallingford, UK.
• Michener, C. 2007. The Bees of the World, 2nd edition. Johns Hopkins University Press. Baltimore and London.
• Kevan, P.G., E.A. Clark & V.G. Thomas. 1990. Insect pollinators and sustainable agriculture. Am. J. Altern. Agric.5: 12–22
• https://www.nature.com/articles/s41597-020-0461-3
• https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/honey-bees-feel-sting-viral-disease

Author: Dr. Ashutosh Srivastava

Soil, also known as “Skin of mother earth”, is a product of millions of years of weathering of parent rocks and transportation of minerals from far off places through wind, water, and other agents.  Soil is the largest source of the medium supporting terrestrial land life forms, and comprises of the following five major components viz; minerals, water, air, organic matter and microbial life forms (Miroslav Kutílek and Donald R. Nielsen, 2015). Major functions of the soil in facilitating the survival of human race on earth can be listed as following (Hatfield et al. 2017)

Agriculture has been an activity associated with mankind for over 5500 years, and for all these years, soils have been supporting the survival of mankind without any hindrance. It is in the last two centuries that the activities of humans have resulted in severe damage to the soil, so much so that the uncultivable wastelands have increased at an alarming rate (Lal, 2003). 

Causes of Soil degradation

Intensive agricultural practices that rely heavily on water, chemical fertilisers and pesticides, have caused waterlogging and salinity in many parts of the country. The expansion of the irrigation system without adequate steps for treatment of the catchment areas has exacerbated this. Soil degradation is happening at an alarming pace and is affecting regions inhabited by over one-third of the global population. This phenomenon contributes to a dramatic decline in the productivity of croplands and rangelands worldwide, thereby threatening food security and environmental quality. Soil degradation should be, therefore, considered as a major global environmental issue of this century (Labriere et al. 2015).

At this pace of soil degradation, what we would hand over to the generations to come would be terrifying in terms of its ability to support food security of the increasing populations. 33% of the Earth’s soils are already degraded and over 90% could become degraded by 2050 (FAO and ITPS, 2015; IPBES, 2018).

Reversal of Soil degradation

Soil degradation trends can be reversed by conversion to restorative land use, and adoption of recommended management practices. The strategy is to minimize soil erosion, create positive soil organic carbon and nitrogen budgets, enhance activity and species diversity of soil biota (micro, meso, and macro), and improve structural stability and pore geometry. Improving soil quality (i.e., increasing Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) pool, improving soil structure, enhancing soil fertility) can reduce risks of soil degradation (physical, chemical, biological and ecological) while improving the environment. Increasing the SOC pool to above the critical level (10 to 15 g/kg) is essential to set the restorative trends in motion. Site-specific techniques of restoring soil quality include conservation agriculture, integrated nutrient management, and continuous vegetative cover such as residue mulch and cover cropping, and controlled grazing at appropriate stocking rates. The strategy is to produce “more from less” by reducing losses and increasing soil, water, and nutrient use efficiency (Rattan Lal, 2015).

Hosachiguru has been working conscientiously on the above principles through organic management practices. The operational area of Hosachiguru lies mainly in Anantapur District of Andhra Pradesh, which has faced immense pressure from human activities, and is characterised by poor, degraded soils. We at Hosachiguru are working to reclaim the soils in the region by going back to traditional methods of organic farming. A gift, we feel we owe to the future generations.

References:

Hatfield Jerry L. Thomas J.Sauer, Richard M.Cruse (2017) Soil: The Forgotten Piece of the Water, Food, Energy Nexus Advances in Agronomy Volume 143,  Pages 1-46

Miroslav Kutílek  and Donald R. Nielsen Soil: The Skin of the Planet Earth 2015 (ISBN-13: 978-9401797887) 247p Publisher : Springer

Labrière Nicolas, Bruno Locatelli, Yves Laumonier, Vincent Freycon, Martial Bernoux, (2015) Soil erosion in the humid tropics: A systematic quantitative review Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment Volume 203, 1 May 2015, Pages 127-139.

1. Lal (2003) Soil erosion and the global carbon budget. Environ. Int., 29  pp. 437-450

Rattan Lal (2015). Restoring Soil Quality to Mitigate Soil Degradation. Sustainability 2015, 7, 5875-5895; doi:10.3390/su7055875. The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.

Author: Dr. Ashutosh Srivastava

Heartwood formation is a complex process in woody plants, where a series of changes occur in the plant both physiologically and cytologically, resulting in formation of heartwood i.e., timber of commerce (Plomion et al. 2001). This blog is written in the simplest form so that a reader without deep knowledge of plant histology and physiology understands the process.

Cytological observations reveal that in the formation of heartwood, the death of the ray cells is preceded by a period of great physiological activity, and then the protoplasmic membrane disintegrates to liberate the extractives (Chattaway 1952). Another school of thought is that the heartwood formation is an aging process in a living tree, through which the parenchyma cells undergo irreversible changes such as degradation of the protoplasm and the disorganisation of the cell’s oxidizing system, without physiological activation during the process (Frey-Wyssling and Bosshard 1959). Based on the published literature, the process of heartwood formation can be listed as following major events (Kokutse et al. 2010).

• Death of parenchyma cells
• Sapwood desiccation
• Lack of water transport
• Accumulation of carbon dioxide and ethylene

All the above processes are directly or indirectly correlated to the stress levels in the plantations. The production cycle followed in Hosachiguru broadly falls in the following growth phases for teak.

It may be noted that, at Hosachiguru we aim to support the natural cycles in tree growth patterns in order to achieve maximum commercial timber yield in shorter rotation periods.

Author: Ruchi Renavikar | Nihal Anand

India’s highly variable climate, extremities of temperature and rainfall (eg. drought & flood), led to numerous innovations in water management techniques since the Indus valley civilisation. As a result of this, wells, pumps, irrigation systems, water storage systems and innovative, regional water harvesting techniques, developed over time. Even ancient Indian literature points towards an intuitive understanding of nature and its natural processes. Some traditional methods of rainwater harvesting such as, johads & Kunds (Rajasthan), kuls (Himachal Pradesh), bamboo drip irrigation systems (Meghalaya), Zabo (Nagaland), Eri (Tamil Nadu), Surangam (Karnataka), Ahar pynes (Bihar) are used even today. These traditional systems were intricately designed based on the climatic conditions, soil type and land elevation to harvest maximum rainwater during the heavy monsoons witnessed in India.

The continuous evolution of technology and Ai based models that support decision making have now set water management in agriculture on a new trajectory. Although one can never completely replace or mimic natural ecosystems, Ai in water management helps in understanding and analysing when a plant is stressed due to either scarce or excess water supply. Both these conditions are detrimental and fatal to plants if not corrected immediately. Ai models are programmed to assess the optimum level of water required for a plant based on a nexus of interrelated factors such as: plant type, species, climatic data, temperature, soil moisture, soil type and the irrigation system as well. With the advent of automated irrigation systems, human error of approximation can also be eliminated when coupled with Ai models.

How does irrigation automation help in saving water?

When linked to the soil moisture sensors, the automated irrigation systems can be programmed to sense the area’s dryness and irrigate the land. This can help save water in the following ways:

• It will irrigate the land only when the plant is thirsty.
• It will avoid excess irrigation by stopping the water flow as soon as the sensor gives an ideal reading. Leaching of soil nutrients is a frequent, undesirable occurrence that results due to excessive moisture in the soil, something that can be easily avoided by such smart irrigation systems.
• Different soil types might be present in the same piece of land, each with a different water requirement. Manually irrigating these zones without over-irrigating or under-irrigating is a logistical nightmare. A smart irrigation device will take into consideration the soil retention capacity of each of the soil types, and customize its water flow so as to keep the moisture content ideal.

What are the benefits of smart water management systems?

• As mentioned above, smart irrigation can help save water, time, and costs, by bringing down manual labour through automation
• Irrigation motors can be switched on and off with the push of a button, sitting miles away; they can also be used with either run time or water flow as a variables
• Soil dryness and Leaching can be brought down to a bare minimum by the soil moisture sensors recognizing the water requirement of the plant

What are the best methods to harvest water and make it sustainable for both farm operations and the environment?

• Rainwater harvesting systems (RWHs)
  The most traditional form of rainwater harvesting, rainwater is captured on roof catchments and stored in groundwater reservoirs. The use of this rainwater can be intermittent, such as for irrigation during dry spells, or for the entire year for domestic uses. India’s primary source of freshwater is not actually rivers but the annual monsoons that feed the rivers. Therefore harnessing rainfall during this season is critical and anyone with a farming background will be familiar with this. Rainfall naturally seeps into the soil and fills the ground water table. The rainwater stored in the ground can be extracted using borewells.
• Flood water harvesting (FWH)
  In this additional form of rainwater harvesting, flood water is abstracted during the peak rainy season and stored in an underground tank that can later be used for irrigating the farm when water is scarce during the dry season..
• Microcatchments
  Microcatchments are designed to collect water from runoffs in a small catchment area. They are constructed in such a way that the runoff water infiltrates the soil and collects in the root zone, supplying water directly to the plants. On a larger scale, these microcatchments can lead to significant groundwater recharge.

According to the United Nations, 40% of the worlds’ population lives in areas of moderate to high water stress. However, this stress is not evenly distributed around the world. States like India, Mexico, USA and China rank among the fastest consumers of ground water sources. Agriculture in India, accounts of 90% of total groundwater use due to high levels of extraction and poor irrigation systems. We are using our groundwater faster than it can be replenished and therefore it is crucial that we put back the water that we are not using. Maintaining a balance in the groundwater table is essential to the functioning of natural ecosystems. The Gaia Hypothesis for example, embodies the same. The Gaia hypothesis is a greek concept for mother earth that suggests that “the Earth is a living organism with a complex feedback system that seeks an optimal balance in its physical and chemical environment”. Today, we may be able to achieve ground water balance through Ai supported machine learning systems. In essence natural systems are characterised by negative feedback loops and therefore are self-limiting in any scenario, however human controlled resource systems have positive feedback loops which are self-reinforcing. For example, ground-water extraction leads to more productivity on land and this leads to higher produce output which further leads to more groundwater extraction. Ai can allow us to create negative feedback loops that limit the over-use of groundwater in India.

With Ai, smart farmers are realising it is no longer necessary to uniformly apply fertilizers, pesticides and water across the farms. Instead, many farmers are realising that applying the minimum required quantity of nutrients and water is not only sufficient but beneficial for plant growth. Farms and agricultural industries are expected to run very differently than before. Advancements in technologies such as Ai, remote sensing, field sensors, drones, machines and information technology will make agriculture more profitable, efficient and environmentally conscious than ever before.

References

Tietenberg, T. & Lewis, L., 2012. Environmental & Natural Resource Economics. 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education.

Nair, K. S., 2004. Role of water in the development of civilisation in India- A review on ancient literature, traditional practices and beliefs. The basis of civilisation – water science, Issue 286, pp. 1660-166.

Dhawan, V., 2017. Water and agriculture in India. Background paper for South Asia expert panel during the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture, s.l.: Teri, German Agribusiness Alliance, German Asia-Pacific Business Association.

Microsoft, 2021. News Microsoft. [Online]  Available at: https://news.microsoft.com/europe/features/how-ai-and-satellite-data-are-helping-farmers-waste-less-water/ [Accessed 2nd March 2021].