Dr. Subhash Palekar’s address at the India CSR Leadership Summit was a clarion call for the corporate world to take responsibility and play a proactive role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
NEW DELHI (India CSR): The 14h India CSR Leadership Summit, an annual event, witnessed an insightful address by Padma Shri Dr. Subhash Palekar, a pioneer in sustainable agriculture and the originator of the Subhash Palekar Natural Farming (SPNF) method. As the chief guest of the forum, Dr. Palekar emphasized the crucial role of the corporate sector in promoting natural farming practices to ensure a healthier and more sustainable future.
The 14th India CSR Leadership Summit, held on August 22, 2024, in New Delhi, brought together leaders from across industries to discuss and explore the evolving landscape of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in India.
Rusen Kumar founder and Managing Editor of India CSR delivered welcome address at the summit. The summit focused on the theme of “Synergizing CSR: Empowering Communities,” emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges.
The Corporate Sector’s Role in Agriculture
In his address, Dr. Palekar highlighted the importance of corporate involvement in the agricultural sector, particularly in promoting natural farming. He expressed grave concern over the current state of food production, noting that the food we produce today is increasingly toxic, leading to severe health issues such as cancer. “We have polluted our air, water, and soil to such an extent that it’s harming not just the environment but also the very people who rely on these resources for survival,” he stated.
Dr. Palekar stressed that even corporate employees, who are indirectly involved in the food production chain, need poison-free food. He urged the corporate world to take responsibility for promoting natural farming practices, which can significantly reduce the harmful impacts of chemical farming. “Promoting natural farming is not just a moral duty but a necessary step towards ensuring the well-being of all,” he added.
He further elaborated on the potential of agriculture to generate employment. By focusing on skill development within the agricultural sector, new job opportunities can be created. Dr. Palekar urged the corporate sector to invest in natural farming techniques like SPNF, which not only promotes sustainable agriculture but also creates a robust framework for rural development.
His message was clear: the future of farming, and indeed the future of our planet, depends on our collective efforts to embrace and promote natural farming methods.
Challenges of the Current Agricultural System
Dr. Palekar didn’t shy away from addressing the serious challenges posed by the current agricultural practices. He described them as harmful, toxic, and contributors to climate change. “The farming practices we are following today are detrimental to our environment and contribute significantly to global warming and climate change. This needs to stop immediately,” he asserted.
He also touched upon the broader issue of global temperature rise and climate change, alongside the growing reliance on artificial intelligence. Dr. Palekar described these as “man-made catastrophic threats” that are pushing the planet towards irreversible damage. “If we are to stop these destructive forces, we must come together, set aside our differences, and work towards sustainable solutions,” he emphasized.
According to Dr. Palekar, addressing these global challenges requires a collective and creative approach rooted in non-violence and constitutional dialogue. “We are ready to engage in constructive and peaceful dialogue to find solutions that are sustainable and beneficial for all,” he declared.
Defining Natural Farming
Dr. Palekar provided a detailed explanation of what constitutes natural farming. He defined it as a practice that adheres strictly to the elements existing in nature. “Anything that is not present in nature cannot be termed as natural. Therefore, farming practices that incorporate artificial elements are inherently unnatural,” he explained.
His method of Subhash Palekar Natural Farming (SPNF) involves essential agricultural processes such as soil cultivation, seed sowing, transplanting, weeding, and irrigation. These processes are designed to be in harmony with nature, ensuring that the land remains fertile and the crops are healthy without the need for synthetic chemicals.
Dr. Palekar also highlighted the importance of using plant-based pesticides and organic fertilizers like Jeevamruth (microbial culture) and Bijamruth (seed treatment) in SPNF. These innovations, developed through his extensive research, are crucial for maintaining the biodiversity of soil microbes, which play a vital role in sustaining agricultural productivity.
The Journey of Struggle and Success
In a moving recount of his personal journey, Dr. Palekar shared the immense struggles he faced while developing his agricultural techniques. “For 24 years, I devoted myself to research with intense dedication. To continue my work, I sold my land, my wife’s jewelry, and faced social ostracism. Many thought I was insane, but I persevered,” he recalled.
Despite the hardships, Dr. Palekar continued his research, often battling severe depression and thoughts of suicide. “It was a tough journey, but eventually, my work bore fruit. The Indian government recognized the importance of my research, and I was honored with the Padma Shri award,” he said.
He expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has publicly supported the promotion of Subhash Palekar Natural Farming across the nation. Dr. Palekar mentioned that his techniques were thoroughly evaluated under the leadership of former NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar and were subsequently included in the national agricultural policies.
Expanding the Reach of Subhash Palekar Natural Farming
Dr. Palekar explained how his farming techniques gained widespread acceptance after initially facing skepticism. “Those who were previously engaged in chemical farming began to experience losses and sought alternatives. When organic farming also proved less effective, they turned to my methods. After implementing SPNF, they saw positive results and joined me in promoting these practices across the country,” he shared.
He expressed deep respect for those who have become his disciples and are now fully dedicated to spreading the principles of SPNF throughout India. “Their commitment and dedication are etched in my heart. Together, we are working to ensure that every farmer in India can benefit from these techniques,” he added.
A Call to Action for Sustainable Agriculture
Dr. Palekar, who dedicates 24 days each month to conducting workshops, seminars, and training sessions for farmers, governments, and organizations, made it clear that his mission is to provide a comprehensive, scientific solution to the challenges facing Indian agriculture. “For the last 40 years, I have been offering my services free of charge. I do not accept any honorarium for my workshops. Yet, despite my contributions, I continue to face injustice,” he lamented.
He criticized the ongoing promotion of harmful practices, such as chemical and organic farming, which he believes are leading to the degradation of soil, water, and biodiversity. These practices, according to Dr. Palekar, are contributing to the rise in life-threatening diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart conditions.
He questioned the policies that honor those spreading misinformation while ignoring the scientifically proven benefits of SPNF. “Why are those who are destroying our environment and health being honored? Why are those with no real solutions being given leadership roles? This is a policy I cannot understand,” he said.
A United Effort for Global Solutions
Dr. Palekar concluded his address with a powerful call to action, urging all stakeholders to come together and find lasting solutions to the pressing issues of global warming and climate change. “We are moving rapidly towards destruction, driven by artificial intelligence and unsustainable practices. If we are to save humanity and the planet, we must unite, set aside our differences, and work towards eternal solutions,” he asserted.
He emphasized the need for a constructive and non-violent dialogue, stating, “We are ready to engage in such discussions and contribute to finding solutions that will benefit not just India, but the entire world.”
The 14th India CSR Leadership Summit
The 14th India CSR Leadership Summit, held on August 22, 2024, in New Delhi, brought together leaders from across industries to discuss and explore the evolving landscape of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in India. This prestigious event served as a platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and CSR practitioners to share insights, best practices, and innovative strategies to enhance the impact of CSR initiatives.
The summit focused on the theme of “Synergizing CSR: Empowering Communities,” emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. Key discussions revolved around the integration of CSR into core business strategies, the role of technology in driving social change, and the need for sustainable development goals to guide future CSR activities. The event highlighted the critical role of CSR in nation-building and underscored the importance of creating meaningful and long-lasting impacts in communities across India.
(India CSR)
