Regenerative Agriculture as Nature based Solution in Urban and Peri-urban Bengaluru: Knowledge, Practices and Value

Background: Regenerative agriculture forms the foremost Nature-based Solution for improved environmental health. This study examines the regenerative agriculture (RA) methods adopted by farmers in and around Bengaluru and evaluates their ecological and economic value. Methods: Fifteen farms were studied using semi-structured interviews and soil nutrient analysis. The farms employed a diverse set of practices centered on five core RA approaches that integrate traditional knowledge with contemporary techniques. Result: The farms adopted diverse NbS including cover cropping, companion cropping and nature-friendly pest management practices, along with innovative marketing strategies and diversified farm-based income sources. Soil analysis indicated significantly enhanced Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) levels, often exceeding the national average of 0.3% and macro- and micronutrient concentrations that were 1-10 times higher than the minimum recommended values. Retention of trees and shrubs supported pollinator diversity, while practices such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation and soil conservation promoted agricultural sustainability. Farms F7 and F13 exclusively cultivated indigenous and heirloom varieties, practicing seed harvesting and saving. Located in urban and peri-urban Bengaluru, these farms benefited from diversified income streams through value-added products, farm tourism and sustainable agriculture training initiatives. Several important insights emerged on novel urban and peri-urban agricultural systems integrating food, water, ecological, climatic and economic security while connecting multiple stakeholders and consumers.