Are highways good use of land? and why?

I am an accidental owner of 2 acres of agricultural land in a small town.  I am looking for ideas as to how best I could use this land productively?

• The land is 75 kms from Bangalore, and has not been cultivated for about 20 years. Earlier paddy used to be grown here. I am looking for people in sustainable agricultrue/horticulture who would be interested to lease since it has been fallow for so long.  But I am really looking forward to ideas which will help me put this land to good use.

• Answer:

  It depends on your objectives and on the local needs. Do you wish or need to operate this land as a profitable venture to make money for yourself? If so, that's one constraint. Are you in a financial position to use this land not only productively but also philanthropically? (That is, you don't personally need to make money from it.) That would give you more options. I don't know what your own farming experience or interest is, but you or someone working with you could start by having the soil tested so you'll know whether and how it needs amending, or remediating, if toxins are found. If you will be taking some time to research your options and make plans, you could at least do the testing, remediating, and some amending. It's always smart to know what is in demand in local markets and to research what grows well in the climate and soil type. Amending the soil can change the soil type over time, as can keeping animals who will fertilize it, etc. I would contact a permaculture organization for direction and introductions to well-trained young farmers who would have the skills and the desire to use this land productively. Again, this goes back to figuring out the local needs. If money were no object, I'd want to make my land a permaculture showcase and training ground, which would vastly multiply the effects of 2 acres of land. Teach others to go out and do good things with their land. Or, just get someone in there to use it for a market garden. With raised beds, mulch,compost, rainwater collection, permaculture guilds, small livestock such as chickens and miniature goats integrated, quite productive use of the land for a market garden, egg production and mini dairy might be possible. It all depends on what you or your hired farmers want to do and what is locally needed. What is lacking in Bangalore? Does everyone still have access to farm-fresh food, or is that becoming a rarity? If organic farms are plentiful, then maybe you should focus on a high-value-added use such as artisan food production. There are so many options, but you and/or your farm advisor or farmer need to discuss and establish your objectives and constraints, look into the needs of the market and the opportunities those present.