A three-day Subhash Palekar Krushi training program was inaugurated today at Khatu Shyam Ji, with over 1000 participants, including farmers from various regions. The event, organized by the Jamnalal Kaniram Bajaj Trust (JKBT), is a key step in the Trust’s long-standing mission to promote natural farming and make India chemical-free and self-reliant. JKBT, an NGO operational since 1963 and founded by the family of freedom fighter Shri Jamnalal Bajaj, has been working tirelessly to empower rural communities and support sustainable agricultural practices.
The event commenced with the rendition of India’s National Anthem, instilling a deep sense of patriotism among the attendees. This was followed by a tree plantation activity under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, a nationwide drive led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji. The initiative focuses on honoring mothers by planting trees in their names, symbolizing nurturing and growth, much like the principles of natural farming.
Padmashri Subhash Palekar, the pioneer of Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), delivered an impactful address where he highlighted the alarming trend of children consuming acidic and unhealthy foods. “We must take a stand to ensure that our children are fed alkaline foods, natural millets, and naturally grown fruits and vegetables, especially in government school meals,” said Palekar. He urged Cabinet Education and Panchayati Raj Minister, Shri Madan Dilawar, to take this into serious consideration, advocating for healthier meals in schools to safeguard the well-being of future generations.
Additionally, Palekar requested the government to promote mother-tongue education up to the 5th standard, believing that it would significantly enhance students’ understanding and confidence.
Apoorv Nayan Bajaj, Trustee of the Jamnalal Kaniram Bajaj Trust, strongly supported Palekar’s vision for natural farming and healthy food initiatives. Bajaj emphasized the need to ensure that children consume nutritious, naturally grown food to help build a healthier society, free from the diseases that stem from poor dietary choices. He also introduced the “Design for Change” program, an initiative championed by the Bajaj Foundation and Bajaj Group in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, aimed at boosting self-confidence among younger generations through problem-solving and creative thinking.
The inauguration ceremony saw the attendance of distinguished guests, including Shri Madan Dilawar, Cabinet Minister for Education and Panchayati Raj, Rajasthan; Dr. Arun Kumar, Vice Chancellor of Swami Keshwanand Agriculture University, Bikaner; and Shri Pushpaas Pande, General Manager of NABARD, all of whom contributed valuable insights into the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and holistic education.
Shri Haribhau Bagade, Governor of India, to Attend on 5th October Shri Haribhau Bagade, Governor of India, is scheduled to attend the event on 5th October, the second day of the training program. His presence will further enhance the significance of the workshop, where he is expected to share his views on rural empowerment, sustainable agriculture, and the role of governance in promoting natural farming methods. The Governor’s address will offer a valuable perspective on how policy and leadership can support grassroots initiatives like natural farming to build a healthier, self-sustaining future for India.
The Subhash Palekar Krushi training will continue over the next two days, offering farmers a deeper understanding of natural farming techniques, which aim to reduce costs and increase productivity without the use of chemical inputs.