Zero Tillage in Wheat: A Cost-Effective Practice for Sustainable Farming in India

Introduction

Wheat farming is a cornerstone of India’s agricultural landscape, vital for the economy and the livelihoods of millions of farmers. However, traditional farming methods, particularly the intensive tilling process, have begun to show their limitations. As agricultural practices evolve, innovative methods are quietly transforming wheat farming, offering new opportunities for sustainability and growth. In the Mau Aima block of Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh, farmers are embracing these changes, learning about wheat sowing with zero tillage. This shift is part of the Bolstering Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) project, (a CSR-led project) in Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka. The project aims to introduce modern farming techniques to FPOs, helping small and marginal farmers increase their profits and build resilience to climate change.

Understanding Zero Tillage in Wheat Farming?

Zero tillage is a sustainable farming technique that eliminates the need for traditional wheat cultivation practices, which often involve multiple tilling operations for land preparation. Traditionally, the land is ploughed using a rotavator to loosen the soil structure, followed by manual broadcasting of wheat seeds. An additional round of ploughing ensures proper seed-to-soil contact necessary for germination. However, this intensive tilling method negatively impacts soil health, reduces moisture retention, increases cultivation costs, and leads to lower crop yields, making it unsustainable in the long run.

In contrast, zero tillage allows farmers to sow wheat seeds directly into unploughed soil while leaving crop residues from the previous harvest undisturbed on the surface. This approach eliminates the need for extensive machinery and labor, offering benefits for both the soil and the environment. Specialized zero tillage machines or adapted tools are used to plant seeds directly, promoting sustainability and resource efficiency.

Benefits of Zero Tillage for Indian Farmers

Adopting zero tillage offers numerous advantages for small and marginal farmers, particularly in water-scarce areas offering sustainability and profitability. Here are the key benefits:

• 1. Reduced cultivation cost: Traditional tilling requires several passes of machinery, which increases fuel costs and labour. Studies show that zero tillage reduces the production cost by 20%. Zero tillage eliminates the need for ploughing, reducing both equipment costs and labour expenses.
• 2. Improved soil health and fertility: By leaving the soil undisturbed, zero tillage promotes the accumulation of organic matter, which improves soil structure, fertility, and moisture retention. This is especially crucial for sustainable farming in India’s diverse climates.
• 3. Water Conservation: Zero tillage helps conserve water by minimizing soil evaporation. According to ResearchGate, this method can save up to 15-20% of water required for irrigation.
• 4. Higher Crop Yields: By preventing erosion and improving soil health, zero tillage contributes to higher crop yields, ensuring greater productivity for farmers.
• 5. Better Nutrient Absorption: Zero tillage encourages the accumulation of organic matter, which enhances the soil’s ability to absorb and retain vital nutrients, further boosting crop growth.

Tackling soil health depletion with zero tillage: Women leading the way

The Allahabad Bovine Farmer Producer Company (FPC), based in Phaphamau town, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has emerged as a pioneer in addressing soil health challenges through innovative farming techniques. Registered with the Registrar of Companies in Kanpur, this FPC is a shining example of women’s leadership in agriculture, with 90 percent of its shareholders being women.

Established in November 2021, the FPC began with 304 shareholders. With support from the Bolstering Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) project, an additional 56 women farmers joined the organization, strengthening its network. This transformative shift not only underscores the potential of sustainable farming but also highlights the vital role of women in driving agricultural innovation. The Allahabad Bovine FPC played a pivotal role in this transition. With 90% of its shareholders being women, the FPC empowered members to adopt innovative practices. Zero tillage is now more than a technique, it represents a sustainable future for Indian agriculture, fostering resilience and profitability for farmers.

Interesting enough? Click here to read how S M Sehgal Foundation empowers Farmer Producer Organizations, especially with women leading the front.