Women Leading the Way Towards Food Sovereignty in Kerala. #APCNF ECRP team continues to inspire families to grow their own nutritious food. Shamitha was motivated to utilize her 5 cents of land for a kitchen garden, and the area has been cleaned and prepared for bed making. In Sophia's farm, okra, beans, amaranthus, pumpkin, and ridge gourd were sown amidst the banana plantation, while practical training on Dhrava Jeevamrutham preparation was also provided. Sarojini enthusiastically started her kitchen garden with beans, okra, ridge gourd, and bitter gourd after preparing beds near her home. At Ammani's ATM (Any Time Money) Model, a customized #NaturalFarming model designed for small landholdings of 20–30 cents to ensure year round production of diverse, nutrition rich foods, new beds were developed and fresh seeds and seedlings were planted. These small yet transformative actions are strengthening household nutrition, enhancing self-reliance, promoting natural farming practices, and empowering women to become custodians of resilient local food systems. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @icarindia @AgriGoI #ATMModel #FoodSovereignty #WomenEmpowerment #NutritionSecurity #SustainableAgriculture

An #APCNF inspired farming innovation is taking root in Khweng Village. By combining dry paddy cultivation with vegetables grown along drainage channels, farmers are maximizing productivity, resilience, and land use efficiency under the #NationalResourcreOrganisation Programme. In Khweng Village, Bhoi district, Meghalaya, farmers have successfully completed upland paddy sowing through the line sowing method after seed treatment, maintaining a spacing of 15 cm × 15 cm. To ensure effective drainage and moisture management, drainage channels were created after every ten rows. Demonstrating efficient land use and crop diversification, farmers are utilizing both sides of these channels to cultivate vegetables and leafy greens such as coriander, radish, chilli, rosella, maize (border crop), pumpkin, and bitter gourd. With limited lowland paddy areas and the predominance of upland and forest fringe lands, farmers have shown strong interest in adopting dry paddy cultivation. Under this initiative, 7 farmers have brought 4.60 acres under cultivation, strengthening climate resilient and diversified farming systems. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @Meghalaya_agri @icarindia @AgriGoI #DryPaddy #CropDiversification #SustainableAgriculture

A team from the @IFPRI visited Devanakonda Mandal, Kurnool District to observe #APCNF’s community-led health, nutrition, and livelihood interventions. The team visited #NutriGarden models that supply fresh vegetables to institutions and households, and explored stalls showcasing #PMDS seed kits, bioinoculants, and a variety of millet based nutritious foods. District Project Manager Ms. Madhuri briefed the team on the initiatives and their impact. The visitors also interacted with community members and pregnant women to understand the outcomes of health and nutrition interventions at the grassroots level. The #FoodBasket programme and its role in improving household nutrition were also presented. The team appreciated the integrated approach, stating, "These community driven interventions demonstrate how nutrition sensitive agriculture can improve both health and livelihoods," and noted that "the convergence of nutrigardens, millet based nutrition, and community participation offers valuable lessons for sustainable food systems." @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @icarindia @AgriGoI #NutritionSecurity #FoodBasket #Millets #CommunityHealth

A German publication @SPIEGEL_Politik has turned its attention to Andhra Pradesh’s Natural Farming (#APCNF's) movement, highlighting how farmers are cultivating healthy soils, resilient livelihoods, and sustainable food systems through ecological practices. The feature reflects the growing global recognition of APCNF’s community driven approach, led by farmers and women’s collectives, as a pathway to addressing climate challenges while ensuring food and nutritional security. Andhra Pradesh continues to demonstrate that a better future for agriculture is not only possible. It is already taking shape in farmers fields. spiegel.de/politik/landwirts… @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @NITIAayog @AndhraPradeshCM @icarindia @AgriGoI @EU_Commission @FedHermesLtd @FranceintheUK @giz_gmbh @IFPRI @icimod @IFAD @gaspworld #Agroecology #RegenerativeAgriculture #FoodSystemsTransformation #ClimateResilience

In its latest #BusinessOfFood newsletter, @Bloomberg highlighted the @FoodPlanetPrize 2026 and noted that the award was presented to the movement that has enabled 1.8 million farmers in southern India to transition to #NaturalFarming. This recognition places #APCNF alongside some of the world's most important food and agriculture stories, reinforcing the growing global acknowledgement that #NaturalFarming can address the interconnected challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, farmer livelihoods, and healthy food systems. The achievement belongs to every farmer, community resource person, field functionary, partner, and supporter who has contributed to this transformative movement. Together, they are demonstrating that farming in harmony with nature can create a more resilient and sustainable future. bloomberg.com/news/newslette… @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @gaspworld @futureoffoodorg @FAO @EATforum @circulareconomy @EU_Commission @FedHermesLtd @FranceintheUK @giz_gmbh @IFPRI @icimod @IFAD @WFP @World_FoodForum @NITIAayog @AgriGoI @icarindia #RegenerativeAgriculture #SustainableAgriculture #ClimateAction #Biodiversity #FarmerLedChange

For J. Chenchu Subbalakshmi, the benefits of #NaturalFarming extend beyond the field. Improved access to diverse, nutritious food and lower dependence on chemical inputs have contributed to healthier families and stronger rural communities. Research from intervention villages has shown encouraging improvements in dietary diversity, maternal health, and child nutrition, highlighting the connection between healthy farms and healthy people. The @FoodPlanetPrize 2026 honours farmers whose efforts are helping build food systems that nourish both people and the planet. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @KATCzm @kenaff_farmers @KfW_FZ_int @lvc_southasia @mylakehead @MIF_India @NuffieldFarming @NYUSternFC @RnfrstAlliance #HealthAndNutrition #FoodSecurity #HealthyFood #FoodPlanetPrize

This award feels like it belongs to us , says Nasar Reddy from Markapuram district. He is one of the 1.8 million farmer families who are celebrating the @FoodPlanetPrize 2026. #NaturalFarming farmers in Andhra Pradesh are showing how agriculture can address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. By restoring soil biology through natural inputs such as Jeevamrutam, #APCNF farms support richer ecosystems, with studies reporting seven times more earthworms and 55% more birds than chemical farms. As Nasar Reddy puts it, the Food Planet Prize is not just recognition of a programme, but a recognition of their contribution to building a more sustainable future for agriculture, people, and the planet. For farmers like Nasar Reddy, this recognition celebrates the commitment of farming families who have embraced Natural Farming. It is a proud milestone that has earned global recognition for Andhra Pradesh's farmer-led movement. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi @cifor_icrafRda @IFPRI @icimod @IFAD @UNUEHS @KATCzm @kenaff_farmers @KfW_FZ_int @lvc_southasia #FarmerLedTransformation #SustainableAgriculture #ClimateResilience #SoilHealth #Biodiversity #RegenerativeAgriculture #Agroecology #SmallholderFarmers #FarmerVoices #HealthySoilsHealthyFood #ClimateAction #FoodSystemsTransformation

D. Chamundeshwari’s experience highlights how knowledge driven farming can improve livelihoods while restoring the health of natural resources. Through #NaturalFarming, farmers have gained practical skills to manage climate risks, reduce cultivation costs, and build resilient farming systems. Diversified 365-day farming models are creating year-round opportunities, helping families generate stable incomes while improving household nutrition and ecological health. The #FoodPlanetPrize celebrates the determination of farmers who are turning challenges into opportunities through sustainable agriculture. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @ADB_HQ @Afsafrica @FundAgroecology @BangorUni_Intl @BMZ_Bund @CGIAR_EMD @Cirad @coimpactcollab @Cornell @CSEINDIA #ClimateResilience #WomenFarmers #SustainableLivelihoods #FoodPlanetPrize2026

1.8 million #NaturalFarming farmers in Andhra Pradesh celebrate a global honour: #APCNF has won the #FoodPlanetPrize2026. By restoring soil health, reducing chemical inputs, sequestering carbon, and building resilience to floods, droughts, and cyclones, these farmers are proving that agriculture can be part of the climate solution. A healthier planet starts with healthier soils. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @Columbia @WUR @WBG_Nigeria @annalappe @FoodPlanetPrize #NaturalFarming #ClimateAction #SoilHealth #Agroecology

Yerru Bapanna from Andhra Pradesh, has a reason to celebrate. By adopting #NaturalFarming, he is strengthening food security, conserving biodiversity, and building resilience to climate challenges. Today, he joins millions of farmers whose efforts to restore living soils, protect natural resources, and create sustainable farming systems have earned global recognition through the #FoodPlanetPrize2026. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @TheGarlicFarm @1000currents @TMZ @TMG_think #RegenerativeAgriculture #ClimateResilience #FoodSecurity #BiodiversityConservation #HealthySoils #SustainableFarming #FarmerLedTransformation #Agroecology #ClimateAction #SoilHealth

Farmers like Hema from Andhra Pradesh have a reason to celebrate. By adopting #NaturalFarming, she reduced chemical inputs, improved soil health, and contributed to cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Today, she joins 1.8 million farmers whose efforts to restore soils, conserve water, and build climate resilience have earned global recognition through the #FoodPlanetPrize2026. Their message is simple: healthy soils can help heal the planet. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @mylakehead @MIF_India @NuffieldFarming @NYUSternFC @RnfrstAlliance #APCNF #ClimateAction #SoilHealth #FoodPlanetPrize

This #WorldEnvironmentDay, farmers like Annapurneswari are demonstrating that working with nature can regenerate ecosystems while producing healthy and nutritious food. Through Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF), farming communities are restoring living soils, strengthening biodiversity, conserving water, and enhancing the resilience of agricultural landscapes. Research from #APCNF farms demonstrates the environmental benefits of this transformation: - 50–60% reduction in water consumption - 29.5% higher soil moisture and 40% higher water infiltration - 2–3 tonnes of carbon captured per hectare per year 50–70% lower methane emissions in paddy systems due to improved soil aeration - Nitrous oxide emissions are almost entirely avoided through the elimination of synthetic nitrogen fertilisers - 7 times more earthworms, 55% higher bird populations, and 60% more beneficial insects, reflecting healthier and more biodiverse ecosystems - Greater resilience to floods, cyclones, droughts, and pest attacks, with Natural Farming farmers reporting ≤10% crop damage during Cyclone Michaung (2023) These outcomes demonstrate that agriculture can be a powerful force for ecological restoration. By rebuilding soil biology, strengthening biodiversity, conserving water, and working with natural ecological processes, farming communities are contributing to climate resilience and healthier ecosystems. The Food Planet Prize 2026 recognised APCNF for demonstrating that restoring nature, strengthening farming livelihoods, and producing healthy food can go hand in hand. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 @FAO @icarindia @university3466 @KATCzm @kenaff_farmers @KfW_FZ_int @lvc_southasia @APZBNF #WorldEnvironmentDay #NaturalFarming #ClimateResilience #Biodiversity #LivingSoils #EcosystemRestoration #NaturePositive

Congratulating the farmers of Andhra Pradesh, women-led community institutions, Community Resource Persons, field teams, and all stakeholders who have contributed to the growth of #NaturalFarming, Special Chief Secretary @rajbudithi65 and Executive Vice Chairman @vijaythallam hailed the @FoodPlanetPrize 2026 as a recognition of a collective effort towards building resilient livelihoods, restoring ecosystems, and creating sustainable food systems. They acknowledged the support of the Government of Andhra Pradesh and the dedication of millions who have helped turn this vision into a global success story. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 @icarindia @AgriGoI @CIFOR_ICRAF @IFPRI @icimod @IFAD @gaspworld #FoodPlanetPrize2026 #APCNF #RegenerativeAgriculture #SustainableFoodSystems #ClimateAction

Farmers like Tharani benefited from #NaturalFarming adoption as it revived the local economy. It arrested migration to a large extent due to year round engagement in farming. Farmers achieved higher yields from the first year of adoption. By moving away from seasonal monocropping to diverse 365 day farming systems, Natural Farming helps farmers earn income throughout the year. Multiple crops, livestock, and local value chains reduce risk and improve economic resilience. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @NITIAayog @gaspworld @futureoffoodorg @WomenStrike @GroundswellInt @Grffn_CIC @AgriGoI @PMOIndia @icarindia @FoodPlanetPrize #RuralLivelihoods #SustainableAgriculture #Agroecology #365DayFarming #DiversifiedFarming #FarmEconomy #IncomeSecurity #RuralDevelopment #SmallholderFarmers #FoodSystemsTransformation #NaturePositiveAgriculture #EconomicResilience #FarmerEmpowerment #LivingSoils #FoodPlanetPrize

Every thriving farm is a reminder that nurturing the environment begins with the soil beneath our feet. Through #NaturalFarming, #APCNF is supporting farmers to revive living soils, strengthen biodiversity, improve water retention, and create climate-resilient landscapes. As environmental challenges grow, these farmer led efforts are proving that food production and ecological restoration can go hand in hand, paving the way for a healthier planet for future generations. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @NITIAayog @gaspworld @annalappe @satyatripathi @PMOIndia @icarindia @agrigoi @FoodPlanetPrize #WorldEnvironmentDay #RegenerativeAgriculture #ClimateResilience #BiodiversityMatters #HealthySoils #WaterWiseFarming #NaturePositive #EcosystemRestoration #FarmersForFuture #SustainableAgriculture

Women farmers like Pavani are emerging as leaders, entrepreneurs, and change makers through #NaturalFarming. Women-managed Bio-Resource Centres (BRCs) have become an integral part of Natural Farming supply chains, producing bio-inputs locally and supporting farmers in adopting chemical-free agriculture. Building on the success of #APCNF's community-managed approach, the National Mission on Natural Farming (#NMNF) is supporting the expansion of Natural Farming across India. Andhra Pradesh has been allocated 5,000 of the 15,000 clusters identified nationally under NMNF, covering 13,327 Gram Panchayats and demonstrating the potential of community-led approaches to scale sustainable agriculture. As more states adopt Natural Farming, women-led institutions continue to strengthen local supply chains, support farmer-to-farmer learning, and accelerate the transition towards resilient and sustainable farming systems. The @FoodPlanetPrize2026 celebrates this movement and strengthens national support for the #APCNF model, inspiring the wider adoption of community-managed Natural Farming across India. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @NITIAayog @gaspworld @AgriGoI @PMOIndia @FAO @FedHermesLtd @FiBLBreeding @ficci_india @FranceinIndia @FutureEarth @GistImpact @giz_gmbh #WomenFarmers #NaturePositiveFarming #Agroecology #SustainableAgriculture #FarmersForNature

Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food. #NaturalFarming helped farmers grow food without relying on expensive chemical inputs, improve the soil, and support community health. 400 villages have integrated Natural Farming with local nutrition systems, connecting farmers, schools, and Anganwadi Centres and delivering measurable improvements in dietary diversy and access to nutritious food. A few of the research findings from our villages where Health & Nutrition interventions are implemented Household diet diversity improved from 50% to 87%. Underweight children were reduced from 28% to 22.26%. Stunting reduced from 24% to 20.02%. Pregnant women without anaemia increased from 41% to 52.57%.Diabetes prevalence in intervention villages was 11%, compared to 20.6% in Andhra Pradesh. This @FoodPlanetPrize is an honour for all farmers who believe #NaturalFarming can heal both people and nature. @vijaythallam @AndhraPradeshCM @ap_agriculture @rajbudithi65 @NITIAayog @gaspworld @AgriGoI @PMOIndia @icarindia @coimpactcollab @KfW_FZ_int @CGIAR @NYUSternFC @NuffieldFarming @MIF_India @lvc_southasia @kenaff_farmers @KATCzm @university3466 #Agroecology #RegenerativeAgriculture #ClimateResilience #SustainableAgriculture

As reported by @DeccanChronicle , the world is taking note of a transformation that began in the fields of Andhra Pradesh. What started as a farmer-led movement to restore soil health, reduce cultivation costs, and build resilient farming systems has now earned global recognition. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of millions of farmers, women's self-help groups, community resource persons, and partners who have shown that working with nature can create lasting impact. From local farms to global recognition, this milestone belongs to every farmer who believed that a different way of farming was possible. The journey continues. deccanchronicle.com/amp/sout… @vijaythallam @ap_agriculture @AndhraPradeshCM @rajbudithi65 @Cirad @coimpactcollab @Cornell @CSEINDIA #FoodPlanetPrize2026 #APCNF #NaturalFarming #FarmingWithNature #RegenerativeAgriculture #ClimateResilience #AndhraPradesh #FarmerLedTransformation