SSB Lecturette Notes: Organic Farming Explained: Principles, Advantages, Challenges & Government Initiatives

Fresh SSB batches start around the 1st & 15th of every month.

“The soil is the great connector of lives, the source and destination of all.” – Wendell Berry

Introduction

• Organic farming relies on natural processes, biodiversity, and ecological balance to cultivate crops and rear livestock.
• It avoids synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, GMOs, and artificial chemicals.
• Promotes sustainable techniques like crop rotation, composting, biological pest control, and natural fertilizers to maintain soil fertility and ecological balance.

Key Principles of Organic Farming

• Soil Health – Enriching soil quality through compost, green manure, and crop rotation.
• Biodiversity – Encouraging diverse ecosystems to naturally control pests and diseases.
• Natural Pest Management – Using neem oil, ladybugs, and pheromone traps instead of chemical pesticides.
• Avoidance of Synthetic Inputs – Restricting synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified seeds.
• Animal Welfare – Ensuring ethical treatment of livestock with natural feed and open-grazing practices.

Advantages of Organic Farming

• Health Benefits – Safer produce free from harmful chemicals.
• Environmental Sustainability – Reduces soil erosion, conserves water, and maintains ecological balance.
• Improved Soil Fertility – Composting and crop rotation enhance long-term productivity.
• Better Biodiversity – Supports beneficial insects, birds, and microorganisms.
• Higher Market Demand – Organic products fetch premium prices due to consumer awareness.

Challenges of Organic Farming

• Lower Yields Initially – Transitioning often results in reduced crop yields.
• High Costs – Certification, labor, and natural inputs make it costlier.
• Limited Availability of Organic Inputs – Natural fertilizers and pest control methods are not always accessible.
• Longer Growth Cycles – Organic crops take longer to mature.
• Market Accessibility – Farmers struggle to reach consumers willing to pay higher prices.

Organic Farming in India & Government Initiatives

• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) – Promotes organic farming through cluster-based cultivation.
• National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) – Regulates certification and export of organic produce.
• Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) – Encourages chemical-free farming with minimal investment.
• Sikkim – India’s first fully organic state (2016).

The Way Forward

• Promoting Farmer Awareness – Educating farmers about techniques and incentives.
• Strengthening Supply Chains – Building better marketing and distribution networks.
• Research & Development – Innovating to enhance productivity and profitability.
• Government Support – Expanding subsidies, incentives, and certification assistance.

Conclusion

• Organic farming is a movement towards a sustainable future.
• Prioritizes soil health, biodiversity, and chemical-free food production.
• Contributes to environmental conservation and human well-being.
• With awareness and government support, it can shape the future of global agriculture.