National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) Launched

Why in the news?

The Union Cabinet approved NMNF, a centrally-sponsored scheme promoting chemical-free farming, aiming to add 75 lakh hectares under natural farming, train 1 crore farmers, and enhance soil health and sustainability across India.

National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) Launched

Introduction and Overview:

  • The Union Cabinet approved the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a standalone, centrally-sponsored scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare.
  • Natural farming is defined as a chemical-free system utilizing inputs made from livestock and plant resources.
  • NMNF will initially focus on districts with high fertilizer consumption to promote sustainable practices.

Key Features of NMNF:

  • Built upon the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) initiative launched earlier under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana.
  • The scheme has a total budget of ₹2,481 crore, with ₹1,584 crore from the central government and ₹897 crore from states.
  • 2000 Natural Farming Model Demonstration Farms will be established at Krishi Vigyan Kendras, Agricultural Universities, and farmers’ fields.
  • Focuses on training 75 lakh farmers in preparing inputs like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit using livestock.
  • Plans to deploy 30,000 Krishi Sakhis for awareness, mobilization, and hand holding of farmers.

Goals and Significance

  • Aims to add 75 lakh hectares under natural farming, reaching 1 crore farmers in 15,000 clusters across Gram Panchayats in two years.
  • Targets districts with high fertilizer use and areas under Namami Gange for initial implementation.
  • Seeks to reduce input costs, improve soil health, and combat climate risks such as drought and flooding.
  • Introduces a national brand for chemical-free produce with simplified certification standards.
  • Differs from earlier initiatives with a higher budget, broader scope, and a focus on creating a sustainable ecosystem for natural farming.

What is Natural Farming?

  • A chemical-free farming method relying on locally available resources and traditional indigenous practices.
  • Emphasizes on-farm biomass recycling, mulching, botanical concoctions, desi cow dung-urine formulations, and pest management through diversity.
  • Excludes all synthetic chemical inputs.

Significance:

  • Improved Health: Eliminates synthetic chemicals, ensuring safer and more nutritious food.
  • Increased Farmers’ Income: Reduces costs, mitigates risks, and generates income through intercropping.
  • Rejuvenates Soil Health: Enhances soil biology, productivity, and sustainability.

Other Initiatives:

  • Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Provides financial assistance for organic farming and eco-friendly pest management.
  • Climate Smart Agriculture: Integrates food security and climate resilience while reducing emissions.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times