The 10-Drum Unit Theory A sustainable framework for bio-resource management

While the transition to sustainable farming is promising, challenges remain. Heavy rains during the kharif season have exacerbated issues like rhizome rot, prompting some farmers to increase chemical inputs, which raises costs. Initiatives like the 10-Drum Unit Theory are equipping farmers with tools to mitigate these challenges sustainably.

The Watershed Organisation Trust (WOTR) is championing sustainability and climate resilience in agriculture across the Jalna, Solapur, and Dharashiv districts of Maharashtra. Through innovative practices and community-driven approaches, WOTR aims to enhance crop production, reduce cultivation costs, and promote eco-friendly farming methods. One of their key initiatives is the implementation of the 10-Drum Unit Theory, a sustainable framework for bio-resource management that is transforming the lives of local farmers.

 The 10-Drum Unit Theory is a group of 10 different concoctions with beneficial microbes, minerals, and nutrients, which when applied, supports plant growth by managing pests and diseases, increasing soil organic carbon and enhancing synthesis of protein, lipids and plant secondary metabolites. The first five concoctions including EM-2, DF-1, Humic acid, Fulvic acid, Waste decomposer, and Seven grain slurry are applied to the root area (rhizosphere) through drip irrigation. The last five concoctions including EM Dashparni Ark, EM Amil Ark, EM Vemil Ark, EM Desi Kelp, and EM Fruit Ark are applied to the leaf area through spraying for pest and disease management and plant growth.

 Promoting Residue-Free Farming

Under the ProRISE project, funded by the Walmart Foundation, WOTR has introduced residue-free farming practices to local farming communities. The project has facilitated the establishment of 16 units based on the 10-Drum Unit Theory across 11 Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs). These units produce essential agricultural inputs such as biostimulants, biofertilizers, organic formulations, and biopesticides.

The use of these 10-drum inputs has ensured the availability of high-quality agricultural resources at the local level and at significantly lower costs. Farmers adopting this system have reported reduced cultivation costs, enhanced crop productivity, and greater resilience to climate change. Additionally, the project has empowered Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to manage and maintain these units, creating a sustainable livelihood model.

Women SHGs play a pivotal role in the success of the 10-Drum Unit Theory. Initially, these women received extensive training on preparing various inputs. Today, they not only produce these inputs but also sell them through FPCs, contributing to their economic independence. Setting up a single 10-drum unit costs approximately ₹2 lakhs. Within six months, the 16 units have collectively generated revenues of ₹16 lakhs, demonstrating the economic potential of this initiative.

 Box 1

Farmers like Ravindra, who initially doubted the feasibility of residue-free farming, are now experiencing its benefits. Regular use of 10-drum unit inputs has improved soil health and built natural resistance in crops like ginger. Despite challenges such as heavy rains during the kharif season leading to rhizome rot, farmers have managed to significantly reduce their dependency on chemical inputs.

For instance, Ravindra spent ₹60,000–₹65,000 on fertilizers and pesticides last year. This year, under the 10-drum unit system, his total input cost was reduced to ₹30,000, with an additional ₹10,000 anticipated for water-soluble fertilizers in the later growth stages. This amounts to savings of approximately ₹20,000, underscoring the economic advantages of residue-free farming.

 

 Conclusion

The 10-Drum Unit Theory is not just an agricultural framework; it is a model for sustainable development and community empowerment. By reducing input costs, enhancing soil health, and promoting eco-friendly practices, it is paving the way for a resilient agricultural future. With continued support and scaling of such initiatives, farmers can achieve long-term sustainability and economic stability while contributing to environmental conservation.

The 10-drum unit approach is emerging as a “miracle” for ginger cultivation, reducing dependency on costly chemical inputs at some extent while ensuring better crop and soil health.

Prithviraj Gaikwad

Sr. Agri. Officer, WOTR

E-mail: prithviraj.gaikwad@wotr.org.in

 

Sachin Karadkar

Agri. Extension Officer, WOTR

E-mail: sachin.karadkar@wotr.org.in

 

Pravin Ekunde

Agri. Officer, WOTR

E-mail: pravin.ekunde@wotr.org.in

 

Sandip Waghmare

Agri. Field Officer, WOTR

E-mail: sandip.waghmare@wotr.org.in

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