A few decades ago, India was home to more than 100,000 varieties of rice, with almost each village claiming its own variety that was unique in shape, taste and aroma. However, with the dawn of the green revolution much of our rich rice diversity has been reduced and replaced with a few hybrid varieties. Together with the loss of diversity, we lost also the folk knowledge and traditional practices of rice cultivation. It is to recover, conserve and cultivate heritage rice varieties that a seed bank was set up by SDET in Manjakkudi in 2012. Today the farm has an invaluable collection of 260 rare and endangered rice varieties from across India.

We have travelled across the country and reached out to numerous paddy farmers and researchers to collect the heritage rice seeds. Often we would receive a handful of precious grains which we carefully conserved and propagated. It takes us over three or even four years before we have enough seeds to cultivate and share with consumers. Conservation and propagation demands passion and effort, and also generous help from donors like you, to continue our work.

Adopt A Heritage Rice for one year Rs.15,000/-

All donations are exempt under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act and you are eligible for a 50% tax exemption; a plaque will be placed with your name on the field, and you will receive 5 kgs of organic heritage from Swami Dayananda Farms.

Donation Details
Name of Bank: City Union Bank
Branch: Manjakkudi
Account Name: Swami Dayananda Educational Trust
Account Number: 292001002203858
IFSC- CIUB0000292
MICR Code – 63205003

If you wish to contribute and live abroad, please email us at spiritoftheearth2017@gmail.com and we will give you the account details for transfer.