Case Study

When the project began in Chinthagondi village of Iradapalli Panchayat, Paderu Mandal, the situation of traditional crops was extremely concerning. Traditional farmers had lost interest in agriculture due to lack of financial support, seed shortages, the absence of marketing facilities, and the unavailability of basic agricultural tools such as knives, shovels, hoes, axes, weed shovels, sickles, and pick knives. Youth showed no interest in farming, as government-rationed supplies reduced the perceived need for cultivating crops. Over time, the community lost awareness of traditional crops and gradually abandoned farming practices altogether. This decline led to several problems: scarcity of water, lack of affordable inputs, poor harvests due to weather changes and pest infestations, and little knowledge of sustainable management practices like decoctions and elixirs. Migration to other villages for work increased, while cultural values tied to agriculture weakened. As a result, traditional crops faced extinction, cultural festivals disappeared, wastelands expanded, food shortages emerged, and the younger generation forgot their agricultural heritage.

The project intervened with targeted support to revive both crops and culture. Farmers received seeds of traditional crops such as korra, sama, chollu, valisela, kondakandu, thimre, kakijona, and alasandha, along with nutri garden seeds to promote kitchen gardening. Tools were distributed to simplify farming practices, while training programs introduced techniques like line sowing, Jeevamrutham preparation, water management, and pest control with natural decoctions. To strengthen cultural identity, the project distributed musical instruments, revived endangered festivals, and reintroduced traditional agricultural worship practices such as Sittapuja, Buride Pooja, Durgaya and Mavelika Pooja, and Hero Roggo. Festivals like the Seeds Festival and Itukala Festival once again connected farming with communal celebration. Games (Guddu, Bongaram, Karra Billa, Panasa, Uyyala), folk songs (Pelinai, Pachinai, Dundudi, Barika), stories (Karma Boy, Irpi Tree), and proverbs enriched the community’s cultural revival. Farmers also planted medicinal plants like Salava Beetroot, Kasmi, Soil Amla, Wind Beetroot, Neem, and Mango wood, creating community plantations that provide herbal remedies for ailments such as jaundice, diarrhoea, injuries, and fevers.

The revival achieved remarkable success. Extinct crops like korra, sama, chodi, and valiselu returned to cultivation across 3 mandals, 13 panchayats, and 20 villages. In 2022–23 alone, 100 farmers cultivated these crops across 151 acres, of which 30 acres were previously barren. Crop yields improved significantly, with farmers harvesting up to three bags per 25 cents using Jeevamrutham and natural pest control methods. Large portions of fallow land came back into production, and households gained access to nutritious food. Traditional festivals and rituals, once disappearing, now thrive again, ensuring cultural continuity. Medicinal plantations reduced dependence on external healthcare, while nutri gardens diversified diets. Beets and other plants provided essential nutrients and fibers, strengthening immunity and health.

Socially and economically, the project transformed the community. Farmers who once relied entirely on government support now grow their own food crops, reducing costs and increasing income. Traditional crops fetch remunerative prices in the market, attracting buyers interested in their health benefits. As a result, cultural pride has deepened, and the survival of Kodu culture has been safeguarded.

The project also enhanced farmers’ skills and knowledge. They learned to use Jeevamrutham for higher yields, prepare potions for pest control, and adopt mixed farming. They realized the nutritional value of traditional crops and their connection to health, longevity, and immunity. Youth, once disengaged, are now showing interest in nutri gardens and cultural programs.

In conclusion, the revival of traditional crops in Chinthagondi has not only restored agricultural practices but also rejuvenated festivals, strengthened cultural identity, and improved livelihoods. By integrating seeds, tools, knowledge, rituals, and medicinal plants, the community transformed itself from dependency and decline to resilience and cultural pride, ensuring that the knowledge of Kodu culture will be passed on to future generations.