Sharings from 1-Year-Old Tree Planters
How three farmers are transforming their lands and lives with tree-based agriculture.
Planting trees isn’t just about reforesting the land, it's about reclaiming purpose, healing soil, and shaping a sustainable future. These stories from three farmer beneficiaries of Cauvery Calling show what’s possible in just one year.
Let’s hear from them in their own words:
Karthikeyan, IT Professional Turned Farmer, Villupuram District
“From childhood, I dreamed of owning farmland, growing food, and building a natural space for my children.”
Karthikeyan, an IT professional, always envisioned a life rooted in nature. That vision became actionable when he discovered Cauvery Calling through a friend’s Facebook post. Curious and inspired, he reached out.
From there, everything aligned. The Cauvery Calling team introduced him to their field officer Sendhilkumar, who helped him through every stage: land selection, soil testing, irrigation setup, and tree planning.
He acquired land in Keezathanur, Villupuram district, and planted a diverse mix of mango, guava, pomegranate, red sandalwood, and mahogany. At only ₹3 per sapling, the support was both affordable and empowering. The team continued to guide him on plantation techniques, growth monitoring, and even market readiness.
“I’m deeply grateful to Cauvery Calling for helping me realize my farming dream.”
Kavita, Climate-Conscious Farmer, Coimbatore District
“I believe every farmer should create a mini forest on their land.”
In Saralapadi Village, Kavita was concerned about the growing threat of climate change to her coconut farm. She attended a session hosted by Isha titled “Tree Spices Plantation Possible in Plains”, and the concept of creating a microclimate buffer zone stuck with her.
Guided by Karthi from Isha, she selected and planted 250 saplings from the Pollachi nursery. A year later, her farm is already witnessing noticeable changes: stronger soil, better moisture retention, and reduced weather stress.
She also found value in the leaves, stems, and trunks of the trees, using them as mulch to naturally fertilize her land.
“Being part of the Cauvery Calling group has enriched my knowledge and my soil. The journey has been smooth and fulfilling.”
Palanichamy, Veteran Farmer, Virudhachalam District
“What was once barren is now on its way to becoming a thriving forest.”
With 30 years of experience farming lemon, mango, banana, cotton, and paddy, Palanichamy is no stranger to agriculture. But 10 acres of barren land stood unused, until he discovered Cauvery Calling’s tree-based solutions through their videos.
He visited the local nursery, spoke with volunteers, and had his land evaluated. With their recommendations, he planted Red Sanders, Sandalwood, Indian Keno, Mahogany, Indian Rosewood, and Yellow Teak, using a 12x12 feet intercropping pattern.
Though he faced minor challenges from rabbits, the saplings have taken root. His future plans include growing pepper as an intercrop, adding both biodiversity and income potential.
“Thanks to Isha’s guidance, this vision of transforming barren land is now a living, growing reality.”
A Year of Growth, A Lifetime of Change
In just one year, these farmers have planted hope, not just trees. With expert guidance from Cauvery Calling, they've restored soil, enhanced biodiversity, and set up long-term income avenues. But more than anything, they’ve reconnected with the land and with themselves.
Their message is clear: if you have land, passion, and a desire to grow sustainably, you’re not alone. Cauvery Calling is here to walk the journey with you.
