VANASHALA FOUNDATION

  Microbes play a crucial role in breaking down minerals in a process known as mineral weathering or biomineralization. These microbes secrete organic acids, enzymes, and other compounds that dissolve minerals, making nutrients like phosphorus, iron, and other trace elements available to plants and the ecosystem. The key types of microbes involved in mineral breakdown are:     1. Bacteria      a. Acidophilic Bacteria (Acid-producing bacteria)      - Example: Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans      - Role: These bacteria produce sulfuric acid from sulfide minerals (e.g., pyrite), leading to the breakdown of iron and sulfur-containing minerals. They are involved in the oxidation of iron and sulfur, which accelerates mineral dissolution, especially in acidic environments.      b. Pseudomonas and Bacillus species      - Role: These bacteria release organic aci...

The Navadanya seeds and their planetary associations symbolize the ancient Indian philosophy that views agriculture as a sacred practice, deeply connected with both the Earth and the cosmos. The association of these seeds with the nine planets reflects an understanding of the interconnectedness of agriculture, ecology, and celestial forces. By cultivating these nine seeds, farmers can symbolically align their agricultural practices with the cosmic rhythms, promoting harmony, health, and sustainability. This alignment deepens the cultural significance of traditional farming practices, where spirituality and nature are deeply intertwined. In the Navadanya, the "Nine Seeds" are also symbolically connected to the nine planets in Vedic astrology, reflecting an ancient understanding of harmony between the cosmos, agriculture, and human life. Each seed is associated with one of the planets, representing a balance between the natural world and the cosmic forces that influence agricul...

Dr. Thomas Dykstra is a researcher known for his work in the fields of plant health, entomology, and soil biology, with a particular focus on sustainable agriculture and agroecology. His work challenges conventional ideas about pest control and plant nutrition, offering insights into how plants interact with their environment and pests. Below are some key theories and ideas associated with Dr. Dykstra's work: 1. **Brix and Plant Health** - **Brix Levels**: Dr. Dykstra emphasizes the use of **Brix** levels (a measurement of the sugar content in plant sap) as an indicator of plant health. Higher Brix levels are correlated with healthier plants, greater resistance to pests, and better nutritional quality. - **Implication**: He argues that plants with higher Brix levels are less susceptible to pest damage because pests are attracted to weaker plants with lower sugar content. Therefore, improving plant nutrition and health through better soil management reduces the need for pesti...

  AGRICULTURE, MICROBES AND GUT HEALTH By Vishal Nagda   The Green Revolution, initiated in the 1960s under the influence of American agronomist Norman Ernest Borlaug, has had lasting impacts on both soil health and human well-being in India. Traditionally, farming in India was never viewed purely as a business. Health, Education and Agriculture were deeply intertwined, each supporting and enhancing the other. Regenerative agriculture was a common practice in India, a fact documented by Sir Albert Howard in his 1940 book, An Agricultural Testament .   Regenerative Agriculture, Organic agriculture and Chemical Agriculture: Regenerative Agriculture produces nutrient-dense food by improving soil health, which can lead to healthier crops and livestock. Organic agriculture produces food without the use of synthetic chemicals, potentially lowering the risk of chemical residues. However, this does not guarantee that the food will be nutrient-rich. Chemical Agricu...

My Journey: A Search for Purpose In 2022, I faced a turning point that brought me face-to-face with death. My body was under siege, battling multiple attacks of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Uveitis. At the same time, the outside world seemed to conspire against me for standing up for what I believed was right. For over seven years, I had been in direct conflict with dark forces, a battle that began indirectly in my childhood. As I stared into the abyss, I questioned everything. How could my body, mind, and soul falter when I stood on the side of dharma , the truth? Was the path I chose flawed? Was I unprepared to face such powerful adversities? Perhaps Mother Nature was guiding me toward a different path, one I had resisted for too long. Maybe I had taken my body for granted, forgetting to respect the vessel that carries us through life. Perhaps I had misused my soul in my younger years, neglecting the wisdom that comes with experience. Or maybe, just maybe, Mother Nature was prepa...