PM pushes shift toward natural farming, away from chemical agriculture

The Prime Minister has made a strong push for natural farming, calling for reduced reliance on chemical inputs in Indian agriculture. The statement reflects growing concerns about the environmental impact of conventional farming practices on soil health, water resources, and ecosystem sustainability.

The emphasis on natural farming aligns with broader policy discussions around sustainable agriculture in India, where traditional and organic farming methods have gained renewed attention among policymakers and agricultural experts. Natural farming approaches typically involve reduced or eliminated use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, instead relying on organic matter, biological processes, and traditional farming knowledge.

The initiative comes as India continues to grapple with agricultural challenges including soil degradation, groundwater depletion, and environmental pollution linked to intensive chemical use. Proponents of natural farming argue that transitioning to these methods can improve long-term soil fertility while reducing input costs for farmers.

The shift toward natural farming could have significant implications for India's agricultural sector, affecting farming practices across millions of hectares. Implementation would require coordination between central and state governments, along with support mechanisms for farmers making the transition from conventional to natural methods.