Organic Farming: Policy, Benefits, and Challenges
Organic Farming: Policy, Benefits, and Challenges
Introduction
Organic farming is a production system that avoids synthetic inputs (fertilizers, pesticides, growth regulators) and relies on ecological processes, biodiversity, and cycles adapted to local conditions. India has the world's largest number of organic producers and the 9th largest area under organic cultivation. The government has launched several initiatives - Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER), and the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) - to promote organic farming.
Definition and Principles
FAO Definition
Organic agriculture is "a holistic production management system that promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity."
Core Principles (IFOAM)
| Principle | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Health | Sustain and enhance the health of soil, plants, animals, humans, and planet |
| Ecology | Work with living ecological systems and cycles |
| Fairness | Build relationships that ensure fairness with respect to the common environment |
| Care | Manage responsibly to protect health and well-being of current and future generations |
Key Practices
- Crop rotation and intercropping
- Green manuring and composting (vermicompost, NADEP compost)
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