In a significant move to promote sustainable and eco-friendly agriculture, Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced on Monday that the government will train 18.5 lakh farmers in natural farming during the current year. This large-scale initiative aims to reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers, improve soil health, and encourage long-term agricultural sustainability.
Highlighting the cultural and scientific relevance of the practice, Chouhan said that natural farming is rooted in India’s traditional agricultural wisdom and is now regaining popularity among farmers with a renewed scientific approach. The training programs will be implemented across various states through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), agricultural universities, and other relevant institutions.
Natural Farming to Offer Multiple Benefits
The minister emphasized that natural farming helps reduce input costs, enhances crop quality, and preserves critical resources like soil and water. “Through this practice, we can offer nutritious food to the nation and ensure the sustainability of our land for future generations,” he said. He also underlined the government’s focus on promoting cow-based farming techniques and the use of locally available bio-inputs such as Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, and vermicompost, which will form a core part of the training modules.
Financial and Technical Support for Farmers
Shivraj Singh Chouhan further stated that farmers adopting natural farming would receive financial support, training materials, and technical guidance from the government. In addition, a special strategy is being developed to connect these farmers with markets through Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), helping them gain better returns for their produce.
A Long-Term Vision for Sustainable Agriculture
This training initiative is part of the central government’s long-term vision of promoting “environment-friendly, profitable, and sustainable agriculture.” The Ministry of Agriculture aims to encourage at least 50 lakh farmers to shift toward natural farming methods in the coming years.
“We are committed to making farming a profitable enterprise,” Chouhan said, “and that can only happen when farmers earn more with lower costs and grow in harmony with nature.” According to experts, this move is likely to play a critical role not only in improving food and nutritional security but also in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change.
The launch of this nationwide training program marks a major step toward transforming India’s agricultural landscape and empowering farmers with green, cost-effective alternatives for the future.
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