The Union Cabinet recently approved the "National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)," a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, aimed at promoting natural farming practices across India.
Introduction
The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) represents a pivotal initiative by the Government of India to promote sustainable agricultural practices that balance ecological preservation with farmer welfare. Anchored in the principles of natural farming, this mission addresses key issues such as declining soil fertility, environmental degradation, and high input costs while fostering a transition to chemical-free agriculture. The scheme, designed to operate in a mission mode, is aligned with the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Key Features of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)
1. Capacity Building and Farmer Empowerment
Establishment of 2,000 Natural Farming Model Demonstration Farms across Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Agricultural Universities, and farmers' fields.
Training programs for 18.75 lakh farmers to enable widespread adoption of natural farming techniques.
Deployment of 30,000 Krishi Sakhis/Community Resource Persons (CRPs) to ensure grassroots-level awareness and handholding support.
Creation of 10,000 Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs) to ensure the availability of natural farming inputs like bio-stimulants and microbial solutions.
2. Market Linkages and Certification
Introduction of a simple and accessible certification system to authenticate natural farming produce.
Development of a common branding mechanism to promote chemical-free products in domestic and global markets.
Strengthening market linkages through local farmer markets, APMCs, mandis, and haats to ensure fair prices for farmers.
Focus on consumer awareness campaigns to promote natural farming produce as a premium product.
3. Real-Time Monitoring and Technological Integration
Creation of an online portal for real-time and geo-tagged monitoring of NMNF implementation progress.
Utilization of data analytics to assess outcomes, improve strategies, and ensure transparency.
Digital tools to facilitate farmer registration and provide timely advisory services.
4. Integration with Academic and Research Institutions
Collaboration with the Rural Agriculture Work Experience (RAWE) program to engage agriculture students in natural farming practices.
Development of dedicated Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Diploma courses to build human capital for natural farming.
Encouragement of agricultural research on natural farming methods to improve productivity and efficiency.
5. Policy Alignment and Stakeholder Engagement
NMNF aligns with other government schemes like the Soil Health Card Scheme, Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY).
Collaborative efforts with state governments, civil society organizations, and private stakeholders to amplify the impact of the mission.
Benefits of the National Mission on Natural Farming
1. Economic Benefits
Reduction in cultivation costs due to minimized reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Enhanced farmer income through premium pricing of certified natural produce and market linkages.
Increased profitability by improving soil fertility and productivity over time.
2. Environmental Benefits
Rejuvenation of soil health through the use of organic inputs and natural farming practices.
Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing the use of synthetic fertilizers.
Improved water-use efficiency and reduced vulnerability to climate risks such as droughts and floods.
Conservation of biodiversity, including soil microorganisms and pollinators.
3. Health Benefits
Availability of chemical-free and nutritious food for consumers, ensuring better public health outcomes.
Reduction in health risks for farmers and agricultural laborers exposed to toxic chemicals during cultivation.
Promotion of food safety standards through traceable natural farming supply chains.
4. Social and Cultural Impact
Reviving traditional and indigenous farming practices tailored to local ecosystems.
Empowerment of rural communities, especially women, through skill development and livelihood opportunities.
Strengthening the connection between farming practices and ecological conservation.
5. Sustainability and Legacy
Establishment of a farming model that can sustain future generations while preserving natural resources.
Alignment with global sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly those related to zero hunger, climate action, and life on land.
Challenges with Natural Farming
Limited awareness among farmers about natural farming practices.
Initial resistance to transition from conventional chemical-based agriculture.
Insufficient infrastructure for certification, marketing, and storage of natural produce.
Need for extensive capacity building to scale up the mission effectively.
Regional variations in agro-climatic conditions requiring localized solutions.
Way Forward
Strengthening Awareness Campaigns: Conduct mass awareness programs through media and local governance bodies to educate farmers on the benefits of natural farming.
Policy and Financial Support: Provide incentives, subsidies, and credit facilities for farmers transitioning to natural farming.
Research and Development: Enhance research efforts to improve natural farming techniques and document best practices.
Public-Private Partnerships: Involve private players to invest in natural farming supply chains and create market opportunities.
Monitoring Mechanisms: Develop robust monitoring systems to ensure accountability and track the impact of the mission.
Conclusion
The National Mission on Natural Farming is a transformative initiative aimed at fostering sustainable agricultural practices, rejuvenating soil health, and reducing environmental degradation. By empowering farmers, creating market linkages, and promoting eco-friendly practices, NMNF envisions a future where agriculture aligns with nature. As the mission unfolds, it holds the potential to redefine India's agricultural landscape and contribute significantly to the goals of food security, farmer welfare, and environmental sustainability.
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