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The Indian government's recent launch of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) represents a significant shift in the country's agricultural policy. This centrally sponsored scheme, approved by the Union Cabinet in November 2023, aims to promote chemical-free farming practices across India. The mission builds upon previous initiatives like the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhti (BPKP) and incorporates lessons learned from those programs. The NMNF, however, differs significantly in scale and ambition, aiming to onboard one crore farmers within the next two years. This ambitious goal requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing extensive farmer training, the establishment of bio-input resource centers, and the creation of a national brand for naturally grown produce. The mission's success hinges on effective implementation and collaboration between the central government, state governments, and local communities.
A key aspect of the NMNF is its focus on districts with high fertilizer consumption. The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has identified 228 districts across 16 states where fertilizer sales significantly exceed the national average. This targeted approach aims to address areas where the impact of chemical fertilizers is most pronounced and where the adoption of natural farming could yield the greatest environmental benefits. The selection of these districts also demonstrates a strategic focus on regions where the transition to natural farming could have a substantial impact on reducing chemical runoff and soil degradation. The initiative also seeks to leverage existing infrastructure and partnerships, working through gram panchayats, scientific institutions, and farmer organizations to ensure widespread dissemination and adoption of the natural farming practices.
The NMNF's financial commitment underscores the government's seriousness in achieving its objectives. With a total outlay of Rs. 2,481 crore, the scheme provides substantial resources for training, infrastructure development, and support for participating farmers. The allocation of funds highlights the long-term vision of the government, aiming not just at short-term gains but also at building a sustainable and resilient agricultural system. The detailed plan for implementation includes the establishment of model demonstration farms, training programs for farmers, and the deployment of Krishi Sakhis (female agricultural extension workers) to facilitate awareness generation and handholding. This comprehensive strategy seeks to overcome the challenges associated with introducing new farming techniques, ensuring that farmers receive the necessary support and guidance throughout the transition process.
The environmental benefits of the NMNF are expected to be substantial. By reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers, the initiative aims to mitigate soil degradation, water pollution, and the negative health impacts associated with chemical exposure. The promotion of natural farming techniques, such as the use of Jeevamrit and Beejamrit, is designed to enhance soil health, improve water use efficiency, and increase biodiversity. This holistic approach addresses the interconnectedness of environmental and agricultural concerns, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and long-term ecological well-being. The success of this program will contribute significantly to India’s goals of environmental protection and sustainable development, offering a model for other countries facing similar agricultural challenges.
The NMNF's success depends on several factors, including the willingness of farmers to adopt new practices, the effectiveness of the training and support mechanisms, and the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the program's impact. The government's commitment to creating a supportive ecosystem for natural farming, including certification and branding initiatives, is crucial for incentivizing participation and ensuring the market viability of naturally grown produce. The long-term sustainability of the NMNF will be determined by its ability to demonstrate tangible benefits for farmers, including increased yields, reduced input costs, and improved resilience to climate change. The program's ultimate impact will be measured not only by the number of farmers involved but also by the extent to which it leads to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural system in India.
Source: All about the central government scheme to promote natural farming