What is it?
- Natural farming is an agricultural approach that emphasises working in harmony with nature rather than using synthetic inputs such as chemical fertilisers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It’s rooted in principles that promote soil health, biodiversity, and sustainable land use.
Benefits
- Healthier Soil: By avoiding synthetic chemicals, natural farming maintains soil fertility, increasing its ability to retain nutrients and support crops sustainably.
- Enhanced Biodiversity: Natural farming practices attract beneficial insects, pollinators, and other wildlife, creating a balanced ecosystem.
- Reduced Pollution: Without chemical runoff, natural farming reduces water and air pollution, benefiting both the environment and surrounding communities.
- Lower Input Costs: Farmers often save money on costly chemical inputs, making natural farming economically viable, especially for small-scale farmers.
Challenges
- Yield Decline: Instances, like Sikkim, show yield decline following the shift to organic farming, leading some farmers to revert to conventional methods.
- Shortage of Natural Inputs: Delay and shortage in natural inputs hinder the transition to chemical-free agriculture.
- Resistance from Chemical Industry: The well established capital-intensive chemical inputs industry discourages efforts towards natural farming.