http://www.greenfoundation.in/our-approach/
Over the years it has become increasingly difficult for the more than 250 million Indians whose livelihood depends on agriculture, to make a sustainable income. Overcome by their extreme economic pressures, many take drastic steps to end their suffering. Reports suggest that, burdened by the debts of unsustainable farming, thousands have committed suicide out of sheer desperation over the years.
We believe that the root of their problems can be traced back to the ‘Green Revolution’ of the mid-70’s which resulted in the introduction of new, exotic seed varieties. Lured by the possibilities of better yields higher and incomes that these seeds promised,
Many marginal and small scale farmers chose to cultivate them over indigenous seed varieties. Easily susceptible to pests and diseases, the new varieties needed extensive inputs, such as chemical fertilizers, pesticides etc. in order to produce the promised high yields. The already impoverished farmer then had to invest in these inputs, availing loans in order meet his expenses. Stuck in an unsustainable cycle of agriculture, with a debt that becomes increasingly difficult to pay off, many farmers face the harsh reality of poverty. Ironically, despite cultivating crops in their farms, their families face malnutrition and hunger.
Mission :
Conserve local seed diversity, promote an increased reliance on biodiversity-based ecological agriculture, and use these as foundations for endogenous growth and development of rural communities.
Create a gender-sensitive environment that enhances women’s leadership skills.
Contribute to livelihoods by creatively marketing “value-added” cultivated and wild agricultural biodiversity.
Connect the natural elements—soil, water, air, sunlight, and seed—to ensure an abundance of nutritious food and other basic community needs.
Continue to nurture community participation and assist in building robust community institutions.