Farmers’ Training
Basudha periodically conducts farmers’ training workshops in two subjects.
(a) Methods of crop genetic diversity conservation:
Farmer-conservators from different States of India receive training on Basudha’s campus, in methods of characterization of crop landraces, and methods of rice conservation, especially in prevention of cross pollination – to maintain genetic purity of rice varieties.
(b) Agroecology methods:
Every year, Basudha holds on its campus an 8-day long crash course in agroecology, involving updated advances in agroecological theory and hands-on practice, including different techniques of agroforestry, multiple cropping, composting, building soil microbiome, making biochar and enhancing biodiversity at species, genetic, and agroecosystem levels. This course curriculum was developed by Dr. Debal Deb of Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies and Prof. Steve Gliessman of University of California.