Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, emphasized the benefits of natural farming, stating that farmers using natural methods will see increased production and faster storage. He congratulated farmers who have successfully increased production without using chemical fertilizers, highlighting the importance of producing fruits, vegetables, and grains that are as beneficial as nectar for the human body.
Minister Chouhan noted that many farmers believe production is not possible without chemical fertilizers. However, he pointed out that while production might be lower in the first and second years, it tends to improve significantly from the third year onwards.
Addressing Global Warming Concerns : In a world concerned with global warming, the Minister remarked that while chemical fertilizers have increased production, the quality of the produce is questionable. He emphasized that beneficial soil organisms, such as earthworms, have vanished due to the excessive use of chemicals. To counter this, the Indian government is considering providing grants to promote natural farming.
Minister Chouhan announced that the Indian government is committed to promoting natural farming to preserve the planet's health. The government will offer subsidies to farmers practicing natural farming, provide certification, and compensate farmers for any losses over three years by depositing funds directly into their accounts.
Chemical fertilizers negatively affect soil fertility. Chouhan highlighted that pesticides eliminate beneficial insects, and the adverse effects of fertilizers are not limited to humans but also impact animals and birds. This has led to increased natural disasters globally, affecting the quality of life. Hence, it is crucial to promote natural farming to safeguard the planet.
The Indian government is actively raising awareness and encouraging farmers to adopt natural farming practices. Produce from natural farming is expected to gain international acclaim, benefiting farmers economically. Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat distinguished between natural and organic farming, stressing the importance of understanding the difference. He mentioned that natural farming requires less water and is highly beneficial for farmers. Additionally, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath acknowledged that while the Green Revolution increased agricultural production, it is not a complete solution.
