Sanu Babu Balami, a resident of Pharping, Dakshinkali, was once a promising football player. Around 2004-2005, he had already secured a place in an A Division Club of Nepal. However, his journey took a different turn as he shifted his focus from sports to agriculture. Having not pursued higher education, Sanu Babu grew up at his maternal uncle’s home. His maternal grandfather entrusted him with the responsibility of managing a 2,500 sq. meter piece of land near the Bottle House for agricultural activities to support the family.
Learning and Transformation
From the beginning, Bottle House became a key center for Sanu Babu’s learning. He participated in various training programs, received exposure visits, and gained technical guidance from agriculture experts supported by ONGD-FNEL. However, a major turning point came when he attended a 16-week Integrated Pest Management (IPM) training at the Agriculture Learning and Resource Center (ALRC). This training made him realize the importance of organic farming and the potential of using locally available herbs and materials for organic fertilizer production. He plays vital role in managing the entrepreneur group while he has also involved in monthly saving as well.
Despite this knowledge, Sanu Babu still lacked confidence in organic farming. His perspective completely changed after visiting ICIMOD’s Living Mountain Lab (LML) in Godawari Municipality. LML is a well-known learning hub for sustainable agriculture, focusing on farming in mountainous and sloped lands. This exposure deeply inspired him, particularly the greenhouse-based farming techniques and organic fertilizer production methods.
Embracing Organic Farming
Previously, Sanu Babu extensively used chemical fertilizers on his farm. However, after his transformation, he began adopting organic practices. He now prepares and uses organic and liquid fertilizers, reducing his dependence on expensive chemical fertilizers. The Bottle House project supports him by providing necessary materials and technical assistance. He actively engages with Shikharapur Community Learning Center (SCLC), where he continues to learn and implement new techniques in his farming.
Today, his farm has flourished. He has saved a significant amount of money by producing his own organic fertilizers. With growing confidence, he frequently visits local markets, as well as markets in Kathmandu, to sell his organic produce. Reflecting on his journey, he shares, “I used to spend a lot on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Now, I can make organic fertilizers myself. I am proud to be practicing organic farming and becoming a successful organic farmer. I am very grateful for the technical support from Shikharapur CLC.”
Recognition and Growth
Recognizing his dedication and progress, Dakshinkali Municipality identified Sanu Babu as an emerging farmer. As a result, he received a power tiller machine through a matching grant from ONGD-FNEL and SCLC. This support has significantly boosted his productivity. While he previously earned around NPR 10,000 per month from farming, with the new power tiller, his income is expected to increase to NPR 30,000 per month during peak seasons and slightly less during off-seasons.
Sanu Babu’s wife has also played a crucial role in his success. As a member of the Entrepreneur Farmers Group, she has actively supported him in farm activities and the transition to organic farming. In recognition of her involvement, the power tiller has been supported in her name, further encouraging women’s participation in sustainable agriculture.
Consciousness of Climate Change
Through his journey, Sanu Babu has also become more aware of climate change and its connection to farming. He realized that the excessive use of chemical fertilizers contributes to environmental degradation. He now sees organic farming as a way to help mitigate climate change. Expressing his thoughts, he says, “I would like to contribute to climate conservation by being a conscious farmer. If many farmers like me adopt this way, there could be some substantial impact.”
A Promising Future
Sanu Babu Balami’s journey from a football player to a thriving organic farmer showcases the impact of continuous learning, exposure, and community support. His success highlights the effective utilization of project investments and the growing potential of sustainable farming in Nepal. We are proud of his achievements and look forward to seeing his farm flourish further in the years to come.
Case Study Team:
Sarita Nagarkoti and Lalita Lamichhane (Information, Photo and Field Visit)
Niroj Shrestha (Editing)