Photo Credit: Neil Palmer

A recent study shows that adopting organic farming techniques can improve farmers’ livelihoods, enhance food security, and reduce poverty in India. Researchers in Germany examined the livelihoods of 100 households cultivating tomatoes using organic versus conventional methods to determine whether organic agricultural methods are more beneficial to growers than conventional methods. Their results showed the overwhelming advantages of organic production. In the study, the farmers who converted from conventional to organic farming experienced improved livelihoods, in part due to reduced input costs combined with higher yields. Additionally, adopting organic methods increased crop security by reducing the risk of crop failure due to droughts, pests and diseases. Other benefits of organic production included improved human health, higher physical capital, healthier soils, higher financial security, and better maintenance of culture.