- Natural farming is a chemical-free, ecology-based farming system relying on local resources and traditional knowledge.
- Avoids all synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides.
- Uses on-farm inputs like Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, Neemastra, Agniastra.
- Integrates native cows, mixed cropping, agroforestry and mulching.
- Focuses on living soil, microbial activity, moisture conservation and biodiversity regeneration.
Why Natural Farming Matters
- Low Cost: Cuts cultivation costs by 50–60%, especially under ZBNF.
- Income Stability: Long-term yields improve as soil regenerates; diversified cropping reduces climate risks.
- Health & Nutrition: Pesticide-free food enhances nutrient quality and food safety.
- Livelihoods: Creates local enterprises—bio-inputs, seed banks, composting, farmer groups.
- Women’s Role: Empowers women through input preparation and community farming.
- Environment: Boosts soil organic carbon, conserves water, and reduces fertilizer-linked emissions.
Government Push for Natural Farming
- National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF):
- Targets 7.5 lakh hectares and 1 crore farmers.
- Offers ₹4,000 per acre per year for two years.
- Builds on BPKP, which already covers 9.4 lakh hectares and 28 lakh farmers.
- States like Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat lead adoption.
- Focus on cluster formation, training networks and market development.
Key Challenges and What India Must Do
- Knowledge gaps: Needs continuous handholding through Krishi Sakhis, CRPs and KVK support.
- Farmer hesitation: Fear of low yields; labour-intensive transition.
- Market barriers: Limited certification, inconsistent premium pricing, weak procurement.
- Regional diversity: One-size models don’t work across soil and climate zones.
- Input systems: Need more bio-input centres and local supply chains.
Way Forward:
- Build strong farmer clusters and peer networks.
- Create local Bio-input Resource Centres.
- Develop reliable markets, certification and FPO linkages.
Promote region-specific agroecology research and digital monitoring.
