Industrialization’s conventional farming methods have historically placed heavy burdens on the land, with efforts to yield more per hectare leading to soil degradation from the use of agrochemicals, monoculture cropping systems, and intensive tillage. However, this is changing thanks to a push for climate-smart agricultural practices that are helping to regenerate damaged landscapes into thriving ecosystems.
These innovative farming methods prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem balance, fostering a healthier relationship between agriculture and nature. The result – enriched soils, consistent crop yields, and resilient landscapes.
A shining example of this shift is Yashwin Nair Kumar a 50-year-old farmer from Nasalia sub-division, Bocalevu in Macuata, who has fully embraced smart agricultural practices, working alongside the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways to better manage his farm. Nowadays, Kumar skillfully holds records of all activities carried out on his farm daily.
Kumar procured a loan from the Fiji Development Bank, which enabled him to buy a van to transport his produce to the Labasa market. His dedication and innovative practices earned him the title of Best Slope Land Management Farmer at the 2023 National Agriculture Show.
Alongside agroforestry principles and advanced technology, Kumar incorporates an integrated approach by planting yaqona and dalo between selectively cut forest trees. His perseverance resulted in the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways extending support in the form of a power tiller and irrigation kit.
Kumar and his wife are two of Macuata’s Wailevu district’s most prominent farmers, growing pineapples, various vegetables, and root crops. Recently, the organic team from the Koronivia Research Station established a bacterium culture tank on his farm, a tool that extracts lactobacillus bacteria from raw milk to enrich soils of used and idle lands, moving away from chemical fertilizers.
The Ministry is urging all farmers to adopt smart agricultural practices for the long-term sustainability of their farms. This farming revolution places great importance on restoring soil microorganisms and reducing chemical fertilizers, intertwining with a broader vision of sustainable agriculture.