The Government of Andhra Pradesh, in its pursuit of sustainable farming practices, introduced the ‘Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF)’ program in 2020. Executed by the ‘Rythu Sadhikara Samstha (RySS),’ this initiative seeks to revolutionize agriculture by promoting agroecology and addressing concerns related to chemical inputs in the West Godavari district.
Rice cultivation, a cornerstone of the region’s agriculture, is now undergoing a paradigm shift with the introduction of the Integrated Rice and Fish Farming System (IRFS). This innovative approach not only promises to boost farmer incomes and improve soil health but also tackles the environmental and health risks associated with chemical farming.
The CGIAR initiative on Agroecology is actively involved in documenting existing IRFS practices in West Godavari. Through field observations, two distinct IRFS types have been identified, with the potential for a third. Each of these practices adheres to agroecological principles, emphasizing nutrient recycling, species diversity, and synergies between rice and fish production.
Three key IRFS models have emerged:
Integrated Farm Structure: This unique land use pattern dedicates the center of the field to rice production, a trench area for aquaculture, and a dike perimeter for horticulture. The trench, capable of retaining water, supports various fish species, offering a sustainable and diversified farming system.
Adjacent/Alternate Farming and Aquaculture Plots: Alternating rice fields with aquaculture ponds allows for seasonal use of rice fields for fish farming. Balancing rice and shrimp plots is the goal, although challenges related to mixing or contamination need attention.
Co-culture of Small Indigenous Fish: Leveraging rice paddies, this approach focuses on co-culturing indigenous varieties of small fish. By replacing chemical inputs with natural technologies, this practice aligns with agroecological principles and promotes biodiversity.
Despite the promise of IRFS, challenges such as initial labour intensity, higher costs, and competition with conventional models persist. Some farmers are hesitant due to short-term gains offered by traditional practices. However, the CGIAR initiative envisions IRFS as a sustainable agroecological model that, through collaboration with farmers, can overcome challenges and contribute to the region’s agroecological transition.
The next steps for the Agroecology Initiative involve documenting microclimatic conditions, resource requirements, biodiversity, productivity, value chains, and socioeconomic impacts of IRFS. This evidence will inform the development of locally co-designed technologies and supportive policies, accelerating West Godavari’s transition towards a more sustainable and ecologically sound agricultural system.
