Case Studies & Stories

Helping farmers reduce costs and strengthen soil health

Regenerative practices improved flood resilience and efficiency
Managing a 20-acre farm in Bujetha Village, Gujarat, Vanrajsinh Jaswantsinh Kothiya had become increasingly concerned about the condition of his land. Years of chemical-intensive farming had gradually weakened soil quality, while rising input costs were placing additional pressure on profitability. Seasonal flooding also exposed the vulnerability of his fields, making it clear that conventional practices were no longer providing the resilience his farm needed.
After joining the REEL programme and participating in field training and exposure visits, Vanrajsinh began exploring regenerative farming methods that could improve soil health while reducing production costs. What started as an effort to cut expenses soon became a broader shift toward more climate-ready and environmentally conscious farming practices.

The challenge

Although Vanrajsinh was already managing a relatively large farming operation, maintaining productivity had become increasingly difficult. Continuous use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides had begun affecting soil structure and overall field health. At the same time, input costs continued to rise, reducing profitability and increasing financial pressure each season.

Flooding during heavy rains added another layer of uncertainty. Soil erosion and weakened field conditions made crop recovery more difficult, while contamination during harvesting had also become an ongoing concern.

Vanrajsinh recognised that if these issues continued unchecked, the long-term sustainability of his farm could be at risk.

The approach

Through REEL training sessions and exposure visits, Vanrajsinh was introduced to regenerative agriculture practices focused on soil restoration, natural pest management, and lower-input farming systems.

He began preparing homemade botanical bio-pesticide, using pest-monitoring and pheromone traps, applying regenerative farming techniques learned through training, and exploring alternatives to conventional chemical inputs.

The exposure visits also gave him the opportunity to observe how other farmers were implementing practical, low-cost solutions on their own farms, helping build confidence in adopting similar approaches himself. Rather than making abrupt changes, Vanrajsinh introduced these methods gradually, allowing him to test what worked best under his local farming conditions.

Lower input costs

By preparing homemade botanical sprays and reducing reliance on purchased chemical products, Vanrajsinh was able to lower farming expenses and improve overall cost efficiency across his operation. The shift toward regenerative methods also reduced dependence on external agricultural inputs, giving him greater control over farm management decisions.

Stronger soil stability

One of the most noticeable outcomes came during seasonal flooding. Compared to previous years, Vanrajsinh observed that his soil structure remained more stable, helping crops recover more effectively after heavy rainfall. Healthier soil conditions improved the farm’s ability to withstand environmental stress and reduced the damage caused by excess water.

A shift in perspective

Beyond the practical improvements, the experience also changed how Vanrajsinh viewed farming and environmental stewardship. The transition toward regenerative methods strengthened his understanding of soil health, sustainability, and the long-term importance of protecting natural resources within agricultural systems.

“I now understand the value of environmental conservation and soil health.”

Vanrajsinh Jaswantsinh Kothiya, Cotton Farmer, India

Looking ahead

Vanrajsinh’s experience reflects a growing shift among farmers toward approaches that prioritise both productivity and environmental responsibility. As climate pressures and input costs continue to affect farming communities, regenerative methods are helping farmers build stronger, more adaptable systems that protect soil health, reduce financial risk, and support the long-term viability of agriculture.