Patanjali's holistic farming techniques and the benefits a cotton farmer reaped

Time of India

06-06-2025

In India's arid cotton-growing areas, farmers frequently experience the brutish effects of irregular rainfalls, weak soils, and inflated input prices. For years, one such farmer battled to stay in the black.
Dependent on high-priced chemical fertilizers and insecticides, his harvests varied and bills accumulated. The seductive offers of high-yielding seeds frequently failed to deliver, and the land started to suffer from exhaustion—topsoil crustiness, pest outbreaks, and lower biodiversity.
Patanjali's holistic farming approach
The turning point came when the farmer attended a workshop conducted by Patanjali's agriculture division. Known for promoting traditional Indian methods through modern sustainability frameworks, Patanjali offers an alternative path—holistic farming.
This system integrates Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), organic inputs, vedic agricultural rituals, and crop diversity techniques. It promises to regenerate soil, reduce input costs, and restore balance between nature and farming.
Key methods of Patanjali model
The Patanjali model of holistic farming has its roots in traditional Indian farming knowledge. The model focuses on the application of natural manures such as jeevamrit, which is a fermented solution of cow dung, urine, jaggery, gram flour, and soil from their own field.
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Mulching, crop rotation, and intercropping also enhance soil health and water holding capacity.
First-hand results
According to the book 'Patanjali Organic Kranti' by Acharya Balkrishna, the cotton grower started implementing these methods on his three-acre land. During the initial season, he noticed slight but meaningful changes. Earthworm movement came back—a notable indicator of soil well-being. Vegetation appeared greener and healthier.
Insect attacks decreased markedly because of the enhanced ecological balance on the land, courtesy of natural pest repellers and the return of friendly insects.
By the harvest season, the outcome was quantifiable. The farmer had a 20–25% rise in cotton production versus last year's. More significantly, his input had reduced by almost 50%, as he no longer had to purchase chemical fertilizers and pesticides. His organic cotton also interested buyers who were looking for organic textiles, providing him with a premium price.
Environmental impact and soil revival
Patanjali's model does more than boost productivity—it restores ecological balance. Over time, the soil on the farmer's land became loamy and easier to till. Water usage reduced significantly due to better moisture retention. The variety of crops and cover plants in the field attracted pollinators, reduced weeds naturally, and broke pest cycles.
These improvements not only helped the ecosystem but also eased the workload of the farmer.
Reduced reliance on outside inputs and more consistent crop patterns created a healthier pace for farm life.
Better health
Aside from the physical advantages, the farmer observed improvements in his own well-being. Toxic chemicals no longer posed a worry, particularly during the spraying seasons. No longer, with natural solutions prepared from indigenous materials, health risks were drastically curtailed.
Activities such as Agnihotra and communing with nature spiritually also became a source of peace of mind for him.
Farming, which previously was a stressful endeavor, grew more meaningful and rewarding again.
Challenges during transition
The transition from traditional to holistic approaches was not without its challenges. There was a steep learning curve for the first few months—making compost, controlling pests without instant-fix sprays, and holding out against pressure from local chemical suppliers. There were occasions of uncertainty when yields plummeted temporarily during the adjustment period.
A model for sustainable farming
Today, the farmer's land is thriving, and so is his livelihood. His success is a testament to what's possible when ancient knowledge meets modern ecological thinking. Patanjali's holistic farming techniques offer not just an alternative but a regenerative model for the future of Indian agriculture.
Against the backdrop of climate change, soil erosion, and increased chemical reliance, models like these offer a sustainable way forward—one that powers farmers, guards the planet, and feeds people and plants.
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