Facilitator: Mahesh Melvin, Biodynamic farmer and trainer, Nilgiris
 Mr. Mahesh Melvin started out as a trainer in biodynamic agriculture and later became a farmer. The session introduced participants to the history and origins of biodynamic farming in Europe and India (the work of Dr. Rudolf Steiner) and the new understanding the approach brings to farming. Biodynamic farming encourages farmers to seek a new understanding (a fresh look) of their farms, integrating living matter (from microorganisms to larger animals and farmers) and cosmic energy that sustains life forces – into farming practices. As this was a short introduction to the approach, the facilitator proceeded to introduce some important elements of biodynamic farming like understanding the science of life-forces, balancing and healing soils, understanding cosmic rhythms (calendars), and biodynamic preparations. The facilitator differentiated farming practices into biological practices and dynamic practices. The session included detailed instructions for the preparation and use of composts with practical demonstrations.
1. BD 500 – or cow horn manure
2. Cow pat pit (CPP)
3. BD Compost
4. Vermiwash
5. Tree paste using CPP – for termite control
The facilitator also explained briefly the use of the biodynamic calendar. |
