Punjab: Award for pioneer of organic farming
Punjab: Umendra Dutt, founder and executive director of an NGO called Kheti Virasat Mission, has been selected for the Dr Mangalam Swaminathan National Award for excellence in science reporting and contribution to popularising the idea of organic farming on a large scale in Punjab. Dutt, from Ferozepur and a pioneer in organic farming and sustainable farming methods, will be presented the award during a ceremony at the NDMC Convention Centre in New Delhi on November 28. Dutt, 63, pointed out the excessive use of pesticides in fields, which is having a harmful effect on the ecology and soil.
In 1996, Dutt started holding meetings about the damage caused to the state by chemical/pesticide dependent crop cycle. Due to his efforts, about 3,000 farmers in the state have turned to organic farming. Dutt has worked extensively in Malwa, Majha, Doaba and Pudh to promote crop diversification and persuade farmers to give up the use of pesticides. Speaking to The Tribune, Dutt said, “When I started, people looked at the organic farming model with suspicion. It feels good that our work is getting recognition. We still have a long way to go.” Dutt is among the 10 stalwarts from across the country to be selected for the award. He is the only person from the state to be honoured.
