The Impact of Zero-Budget Farming on Crop Production, Especially Rice and Wheat Study

In a recent study, it has been suggested that large-scale adoption of zero-budget natural farming (ZBNF) like traditional agricultural practices could potentially impact crop production, especially of rice and wheat.

According to a joint study by NABARD and IKRIER, the promotion of traditional agricultural methods such as ZBNF is gaining momentum on a large scale currently. This could have implications on the production of major crops like rice and wheat. As per a report in the Financial Express titled "ZBNF: Implications for Stability, Profitability, and Food Security", it is stated that there is a need for long-term experimentation before recommending ZBNF as a national-level agricultural practice. The report emphasizes that a rigorous assessment and approval of protocols by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) are necessary as the outcomes are still unclear.

Fundamentally, the primary goal of ZBNF is to advance sustainable farming practices by minimizing reliance on fertilizers and pesticides while revitalizing soil vitality.
The study refers to a three-year regional experiment conducted by ICAR-affiliated Indian Agricultural Systems Research Institute, which estimated a reduction in production by 59% in the case of wheat and 32% in the case of Basmati or coarse rice under ZBNF.

The study highlights that productivity is a key determinant of food security. However, after adopting ZBNF, the ICAR study has depicted a challenging picture of crop productivity, raising concerns for national food security. Currently, a sub-scheme of the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, India, is being implemented from 2020-21, focusing on promoting traditional indigenous practices like ZBNF.