Food is the primary energy source for each and every living being. The material and spiritual growth of every human being depends on this energy and hence on the food consumed. This strengthens the importance of the purity and quality of the food we consume. Pure food can be obtained only by cultivating and nurturing the crops in a natural manner. For this purpose Santhigiri Ashram has started its own Agriculture Division. Santhigiri's aim is to preserve the traditional varieties of plants and seeds. At the same time we utilize modern techniques and scientific methods of cultivation and preservation.
Agriculture is a major unit in Santhigiri spectra which is engaged in the cultivation of various crops to fulfil the requirements of the Ashram as well as the production of raw materials for various medicines with purity. This division extends to more than 200 acres of farm land. It also encourages people to fulfil their needs by having their own kitchen gardens and herbal gardens. Santhigiri also helps to buy back the excess crops produced by giving good remuneration.
The agricultural sector in Kerala is stuck at an impasse. Lush paddy fields swaying in the breeze, once a common sight, have all but vanished from the state's landscape as agriculture has been given up due to scarce labour and the diversion of land for commercial and residential use. It was on Guru's directions that the Ashram launched a drive in Kerala a few years ago to initiate an 'agricultural renaissance'. Traditional cultivation methods and native paddy varieties, becoming extinct, are being revived to conserve bio-diversity and to restore a healthy agro-based environment.
The drive was launched from Chandiroor village, the Guru's birthplace (Janmagriham). Ashramites with the help of local people are cultivating paddy in 15 acres of land around the 'Janmagriham' branch ashram. Only bio-fertilisers are used. The work begins with prayers every day. The paddy grown here is used for 'Annadanam' at the Ashram and also distributed to the poor and needy people living near the 'Janmagriham'.Besides Chandiroor, paddy is being grown at the Palakkad branch ashram also.
