The agriculture department in Sivanganga district has taken an initiative to enhance cultivation and sales of organic vegetables. It has launched a pilot project to supply organic vegetables at the doorsteps of the consumers through the farmers themselves.
Deputy director of agriculture, (marketing) G Soundarajan, told TOI that they launched the Amma Farm, a women's group comprising about 20 members each, in November 2014.
It was decided to initiate cultivation of organic vegetables on 700 acres in the district.
Twelve Amma Farm groups swung into action and they started cultivation.
"We monitor them, and they are told to adhere strictly to organic techniques and refrain from using pesticides and inorganic chemicals,'' he said.
People can get enrolled in the scheme at the Ulavar Sandhais in Karaikudi where the scheme is being implemented on a pilot basis.
On the first day, on Thursday, 80 people got their organic veg packs, including onions, tomatoes, brinjals and a bunch of greens. The quantity is increased based on the requirement.
The agriculture department plans to expand the project to other parts of the district. It wants to enroll a minimum of 200 regular customers by July 15.
