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National Mission on Natural Farming Launched in India
Why in the news?
The Indian government launched the National Mission on Natural Farming to promote sustainable agriculture, reduce input costs, and enhance soil health across 15,000 clusters nationwide.
Overview and Objectives:
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Modi, launched the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
- Goal: Promote chemical-free farming, reduce input costs, enhance biodiversity, and build climate-resilient farming systems through localized agro-ecological methods.
About National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF):
- Objective: Scale up Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) for natural farming across India.
- Coverage:5 lakh hectares, 15,000 clusters with 50 farmers per cluster.
- Financial Assistance: ₹15,000 per hectare/year for 3 years.
- Web Portal: Launched for implementation progress, farmer registration, and resources.
- BRCs: 15,000 Bio-input Resource Centres for easy access to natural farming inputs.
Natural Farming:
- Definition: Chemical-free farming using local resources, emphasizing biomass recycling and exclusion of synthetic chemicals.
- Significance: Improves health, increases farmers’ income, and rejuvenates soil health.
Other Initiatives to Promote Natural Farming:
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY):
- Supports organic farming with financial assistance.
- Encourages eco-friendly pest management and soil fertility techniques.
- Climate Smart Agriculture:
- Focuses on sustainable agriculture practices.
- Aims to increase productivity, build resilience to climate change, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Sources Referred:
PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times
