Climate change, depleting soils, and shrinking biodiversity are reshaping the daily realities of cotton farmers. Navigating these challenges requires more than traditional experience; it calls for new solutions, updated knowledge on sustainable practices, responsible resource management, and diversified livelihood strategies.

To support this transition, Fairtrade NAPP organized a comprehensive Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training for 27 farmers and 4 ICS staff of Virutcham Ecofarming Farmers Association (Alwar Organic Company), Fairtrade-certified cotton producer organizations in Dharmapuri and Attur, Tamil Nadu. The program aimed to strengthen farmers’ technical capacity, enhance environmental stewardship, and introduce fruit tree cultivation as an effective strategy for improved nutrition, resilience, and income diversification.

The goal was simple yet powerful:
Equip farmers with the knowledge that sparks long-lasting transformation.

A Deep Dive Into Sustainable Farming: The GAP Training Experience

The training covered eight key components central to Fairtrade’s sustainability framework. Each session was designed to build practical skills that farmers can immediately apply in their fields.

1. Environmental Management

Guidance on water conservation, soil protection, and ecological farming methods to strengthen the overall health of farm ecosystems.

2. Biodiversity and Wildlife Protection

Emphasis on conserving local flora and fauna, maintaining on-farm vegetation, and fostering habitats for beneficial species.

3. Climate Change Challenges and Mitigation

Discussions on shifting climate patterns and practical adaptation strategies such as mulching, crop diversification, and tree planting.

4. GMO and Energy/Greenhouse Gas Tracking

Awareness on managing GMO-related risks and monitoring energy use to minimize greenhouse gas emissions at the farm level.

5. Responsible Fertilizer Application

Training on correct dosage, timing, and application methods to prevent nutrient imbalance and promote long-term soil fertility.

6. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Introduction to environmentally friendly pest control approaches utilizing biological agents, traps, and resistant varieties.

7. Safe Storage and Handling of Hazardous Chemicals

Instructions to ensure safe chemical handling, including proper labeling, storage, protective equipment, and emergency preparedness.

8. PML-Based Farm Maintenance

Capacity building on accurate recordkeeping, monitoring, and adherence to Fairtrade standards through the PML system.

These sessions directly supported Fairtrade's goal of empowering producers with practical, sustainable, and certification-aligned agricultural skills.

Learning by Doing: Practical Skills for Everyday Farming

Theory met practice as farmers stepped into hands-on demonstrations. They learned:

• How to dig ideal pits for long-term tree growth
• Correct ways to place and space saplings
• Application methods for organic manure
• Steps for after-care to prevent sapling mortality

This approach linked technical learning with everyday agricultural realities, reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices for productivity, soil health, and family well-being.

Fruit Trees Distribution: Growing Livelihoods, Nutrition & Climate Resilience

A key highlight of the program was the distribution of 700 fruit tree saplings—400 Mango and 300 Guava—to member farmers, a strategic initiative designed to address multiple community needs at once. These fruit trees were provided not only as a source of long-term livelihood support but also as tools for improving household nutrition, as fresh mangoes and guavas offer essential vitamins and minerals for smallholder families.

By producing seasonal harvests, the trees create opportunities for diversified income, helping farmers supplement their cotton earnings and strengthen financial stability. At the same time, fruit tree cultivation plays a critical role in climate resilience, enhancing soil health, promoting biodiversity, and contributing to carbon absorption. The distribution also served as a catalyst for community awareness, with lead farmers planting their saplings immediately—setting an inspiring example and motivating others to adopt agroforestry practices for a more sustainable future.

Early Outcomes and Community Commitment

• Farmers recognized the long-term value of fruit tree cultivation.
• Many planted their saplings the very same day.
• Strong commitment emerged to ensure zero sapling mortality.
• The Organizations expressed interest in scaling similar initiatives.

A follow-up visit scheduled for January–February will help assess sapling survival, establishment, and overall project progress