Thu Dec 04 12:37:14 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
Headline: Students Key to Organic Farming Revival, Says Expert at World Soil Day Event
Tiruchi, India – December 4, 2025 – The younger generation holds the key to revitalizing agriculture and encouraging organic farming practices in India, according to Oswald Quintal, founder-director of Kudumbam Organisation. Quintal made the remarks during his keynote address at a World Soil Day program organized by the Extension Department – SHEPHERD of St. Joseph’s College in Tiruchi on Thursday.
Quintal, a co-founder of Kudumbam alongside organic farming pioneers G. Nammalvar and Perianayagasamy, emphasized the detrimental effects of chemical fertilizers and herbicides on soil quality and food safety. “Chemical fertilizers and herbicides have increased the toxicity of soil and reduced its ability to absorb nitrogen,” he stated. He urged students to actively participate in initiatives that map rural communities’ environmental and farming resources and to champion the adoption of organic and natural agriculture.
The event, which celebrated World Soil Day, also featured E. Khader Badisha, Assistant Conservator of Forests and Assistant Director (Mini Zoo), who encouraged students to consider careers in the Indian Forest Service. A. Gregory, project director of VOICE Trust, distributed cotton bags and seed balls to attendees. The day concluded with a sapling plantation drive, planned to be extended to villages mentored by the SHEPHERD outreach program. College Principal S. Mariadoss also addressed the gathering.
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