Madhya Pradesh is devising plans to promote organic and natural farming, which focuses on maximizing the use of natural resources while avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The state government is setting up special clusters to make the state a leader in organic farming. Efforts are underway to increase the area under organic and natural farming, in line with the central government’s guidelines.
Addition to promoting organic farming, sericulture (silk production) and beekeeping are being encouraged to provide farmers with additional income opportunities. Currently, districts such as Mandla, Dindori, Balaghat, Chhindwara, Betul, Katni, Umaria, and Anuppur are leading in organic farming, making this region the largest for organic cultivation in the country. The state government has integrated the cooperative department with the agriculture and horticulture departments to further boost organic farming. Additionally, the state has established a Natural Farming Board, which is actively working to promote natural farming practices.
Concrete Steps for Farmers' Prosperity:
The state government is working towards doubling agricultural exports over the next five years. To support this, the purchase of soybean at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) will be further increased, ensuring better returns for farmers.
Several new research institutions are being set up to drive agricultural innovation:
Through the Shri Ann Promotion Agency, efforts are being made to promote coarse grains (Shri Ann), while a "Mission Pulse" initiative has been launched to boost pulse production. This mission aims to enhance production, processing, and strengthen the value chain of pulses over the next five years.
National Mission on Edible Oils: The state is effectively implementing the Central Government's National Mission on Edible Oils. As part of this mission, 10 specialized Soybean Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) are being formed to better connect farmers with markets and ensure they receive fair prices for their produce. These initiatives are expected to create new opportunities in the agricultural sector, increase farmers' income, and enhance the state’s national recognition in organic and natural farming. Madhya Pradesh’s efforts are focused on providing sustainable solutions for agriculture, promoting eco-friendly farming practices, and improving farmers' livelihoods through enhanced market connectivity and research.