Story of Organic Farmers and Our Health

Journey of Mukti’s Organic Movement

Aila: The Turning Point

May 25, 2009, marked a watershed moment for the Sundarbans as Cyclone Aila left a devastating impact on the lives and livelihoods of its people. With over 1 million individuals displaced and vast swathes of land submerged in saline water, the once-fertile lands seemed incapable of cultivation for years to come. This crisis prompted MUKTI to step forward with immediate disaster relief and a long-term vision for rehabilitation.
The realization dawned early—restoration couldn’t be limited to emergency relief but required sustainable interventions to rebuild lives and protect the fragile ecosystem of the Sundarbans. Thus began MUKTI’s organic agriculture journey, aimed at reclaiming lost land, improving soil fertility, and ensuring food security for the vulnerable farming communities.

Reclaiming the Land, Reclaiming Hope

The organic agriculture initiative launched by MUKTI in 2009, in collaboration with organizations like TOFM, DRCSC, and AID, was a lifeline for farmers battling the challenges of infertile, saline land. Farmers were trained in cost-effective organic practices, using natural methods to rejuvenate soil health.
Against all odds, the farmers achieved remarkable success—land once thought barren produced higher yields than conventional farming methods. Rice cultivation resumed, and organic kitchen gardens flourished, even for landless families who used creative methods like planting in jute bags and broken pots.

MUKTI Fresh: A New Beginning

In 2014, MUKTI took a bold step by launching “MUKTI Fresh,” its first organic vegetable store in Kolkata. This initiative connected Sundarbans farmers practicing organic farming with urban consumers, creating a sustainable supply chain. The effort not only empowered farmers but also promoted environmentally conscious eating habits in urban areas.
By 2015, MUKTI’s farmers produced an impressive 17,000 kg of organic vegetables in just four months. This success story underscored the potential of sustainable farming practices in transforming livelihoods and ensuring food security.

Standing Strong Amid Challenges

The organic movement that began in the aftermath of Aila proved to be a robust foundation during subsequent challenges, including Cyclones Bulbul (2019) and Amphan (2020), and even the COVID-19 pandemic. During these crises, MUKTI farmers not only sustained themselves with organic produce and kitchen gardens but also supplied surplus vegetables to local markets, showcasing their resilience and self-sufficiency.

The Organic Revolution: A Vision for the Future

MUKTI’s organic agriculture initiative is more than a farming method; it is a movement—a commitment to fostering resilience, empowering communities, and preserving the delicate balance of the Sundarbans ecosystem. The organization’s Sustainable Agriculture Movement (SAM) is an integral part of its larger Integrated Livelihood Development model. This approach combines organic farming, livestock rearing, and diversified livelihoods to address economic and environmental challenges while ensuring food and nutritional security.
MUKTI envisions a future where Sundarbans communities are not just surviving but thriving—armed with the knowledge of organic practices, a stable livelihood, and the strength to face climate challenges head-on.

Voices of Change

The stories of farmers who embraced this organic revolution are as inspiring as the movement itself. They tell tales of transformation—how they overcame the odds, adapted to new practices, and built a sustainable future for themselves and their families. To date, our 300 farmers are now PGS certified. More than 11,000 farmers have received training in organic farming, out of which 7,500 farmers are successfully practicing it. The hard work and dedication of our farmers paid off when we received the nationwide 1st award from FICCI in the field of Climate Resilient Agriculture in 2021.Through these stories, MUKTI aims to inspire others to join the organic movement and embrace sustainable practices. The journey from Aila to today is a testament to the strength of community-led initiatives and the power of hope in the face of adversity.

Upcoming Event :- Run for Safe Food 2025
Details
Join the 5K Run for Safe Food! 🏃‍♀️🍅🌱

As part of the Organic Food Fair at Organic Haat in Newtown on 18th & 19th January, Mukti, and Susthayee Krishi Poribar are organizing a 5K Run for Safe Food on 19th January.
📍 Starting Point: Organic Haat, Newtown (Opposite of Biswa Bangla Convention Center)
📅 Date: 19th January, 2025
⏰ Time: 7:00 AM

We invite everyone to join this run to spread awareness about safe, poison-free food and show your support for our hardworking organic farmers.

Every finisher will receive a medal as a keepsake for joining this meaningful movement. We’re also working to arrange gifts and refreshments, depending on sponsorship.

👉 Register here: [Run for Safe Food 2025]
We urge everyone to participate in this run to spread awareness about safe, poison-free food and support our organic farmers. Let’s come together for a healthier and greener future! 🌏💚