The Soil Mechanic: A Farmer’s Tale to Save Soil and Lives

Anand Ethirajalu while interacting with farmers of his community during one of the training sessions. Credit: Supplied
Anand Ethirajalu while interacting with farmers of his community during one of the training sessions.
  • by Umar Manzoor Shah (baku)
  • Inter Press Service

BAKU, Nov 19 (IPS) - In the heart of southern India lies an inspiring tale of determination, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to sustainable farming. This is the story of Anand Ethirajalu, who turned his childhood curiosity about food adulteration into a life mission to transform agriculture and protect human lives.

As a schoolboy, Anand stumbled upon articles detailing the devastating health impacts of food adulteration. This very early exposure ignited a spark in him. By the time he graduated in 2004 with a degree in Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology, Anand had a clear vision: to create a system where food production was safe, sustainable, and devoid of harmful chemicals.

Instead of pursuing a high-paying corporate job, Anand took a path less traveled. He convinced his father, an engineer, to invest savings in buying a 5-acre piece of land. This marked the beginning of Anand's journey as a full-time farmer.

"I didn't want to become a doctor, engineer, or anything else. I wanted to grow clean, unadulterated food," Anand told IPS at the COP29 venue. His father, grappling with guilt over contributing to industrial pollution as a thermal plant designer, supported the venture wholeheartedly.

Anand Ethirajalu at COP29. Credit: Umar Manzoor Shah/IPS
Anand Ethirajalu at COP29. Credit: Umar Manzoor Shah/IPS

Cultivating Change

The early years were marked by trial and error. Without formal training, Anand relied on indigenous cultivation techniques and interactions with local farmers. Within three years, he achieved self-sufficiency, producing everything from rice and vegetables to oils and spices on his modest farm.

"I was completely off the grid," Anand recalls. His produce wasn't just for his family. He placed it in baskets outside his home with a simple jar for payments, allowing neighbors to take what they needed and pay what they could. Surprisingly, the community responded with generosity, often paying more than expected.

This grassroots approach not only validated his efforts but also sowed the seeds of a larger vision. "I realized that farmers can live like kings if they understand sustainable farming and basic marketing," Anand says.

Resilience in the Face of Climate Change

One of Anand's most significant contributions has been promoting climate-resilient farming. By integrating trees and crops in multi-tier systems, farmers can grow diverse produce while mitigating risks from climate and market fluctuations. "If one crop fails, the others ensure income stability," Anand says.

He also advocates for long-term financial security through timber farming. By planting high-value trees like teak and sandalwood, farmers can create a savings mechanism for emergencies like medical expenses or weddings.

At COP 29

At COP29 in Baku, he passionately argues for greater investment in nature-based solutions. "Without soil, nothing will happen," he says.

Despite challenges, Anand remains hopeful. His initiatives have not only revived degraded lands but also uplifted farming communities.

"Farmers don't need handouts. They need knowledge, tools, and a platform to succeed," Anand says.

We're not just growing crops. We're nurturing a future where farming is sustainable, soil is healthy, and people live with dignity."

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