On April 30, 2023, the Climate Collective of Chennai organized a day trip to Akshayakalpa Farms in Tiptur, located a couple of hours from Chennai. Along with 23 other climate enthusiasts, I embarked on this journey to gain a deeper understanding of the unique factors that contribute to creating a financially and environmentally sustainable working farm.
This visit provided valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices and demonstrated how farms can balance profitability with ecological responsibility.
A brief Introduction
Founded in 2010 by Mr. Shashikumar and three farmers, Akshayakalpa has become a leading producer of hormone-free organic milk. Despite facing multiple near-bankruptcy challenges in its early years, the organization has mastered sustainable practices by raising healthy cows with incremental milk yields, managing land for maximum profitability, and fostering meaningful local participation.
Today, Akshayakalpa operates over 1,100 farms across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, setting a benchmark for environmentally and financially sustainable farming in India.
Sustainable Dairy Practices at Akshayakalpa Farms
Akshayakalpa’s approach to organic dairy farming is the result of nearly two decades of meticulous research and innovation. A cornerstone of their success lies in their commitment to producing hormone-free organic milk while ensuring the health and well-being of their cows. Their practices are rooted in sustainability, integrating eco-friendly technologies with traditional farming knowledge. By prioritizing cow health and environmental stewardship, Akshayakalpa has set a gold standard for organic dairy farming in India.
Nutrition Tailored for Health and Productivity
The farm’s nutritional strategy is carefully tailored to each cow’s specific life stage, promoting consistent milk yields of the highest quality. Locally grown feed, including a diverse mix of grasses and seeds, ensures that the cows receive a balanced diet. This farm-grown approach reduces dependency on external inputs, minimizes costs, and guarantees the quality of the feed.
Regular monitoring of the cows’ health plays a vital role in maintaining production efficiency. By ensuring that cows stay healthy, Akshayakalpa reduces milk wastage caused by sickness or disease, aligning with their goal of maximizing sustainability and productivity.
Harnessing Renewable Energy and Fertilizer Production
Akshayakalpa’s innovative use of cow urine exemplifies their dedication to sustainability. Collected urine is fed into methane generators, which produce biogas to power the entire farm. This renewable energy source reduces reliance on conventional fuels, lowering the farm’s carbon footprint.
The methane production process also generates a nutrient-rich byproduct that is transformed into natural fertilizers. These fertilizers are distributed across the farm through a piping system, enriching the soil and supporting the cultivation of crops used to feed the cows.
Mycorrhizal Fungi – The Proof is in the Pudding
