The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday gave its nod to the launch of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
The initiative, with a total outlay of Rs 2,481 crore, aims to enhance sustainable agricultural practices across India.
The central government will contribute Rs 1,584 crore, while states will provide Rs 897 crore in funding for the scheme, which will continue through the 15th Finance Commission period (2025-26).
According to an official statement issued after the Cabinet meeting, the government of India introduced the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) to advance natural farming nationwide in a mission-driven approach.
This initiative will function as an independent Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
Principles Of Natural Farming
The statement stated, “Rooted in the traditional knowledge inherited from their forefathers, farmers will practise Natural Farming (NF) as a chemical free farming which involves local livestock integrated natural farming methods, diversified crop systems, etc. NF follows local agro-ecological principles rooted in local knowledge, location specific technologies and is evolved as per the local agro-ecology.”
According to the official statement, natural farming’s aim is not only to reduce dependence on external inputs but also to cultivate safe, nutritious food and enhance the overall health of the soil.
With a focus on reducing cultivation costs, the scheme intends to foster biodiversity, improve soil quality, and enhance resilience against climate change.
Natural farming practices are likely to rejuvenate soil health, build a more robust agricultural ecosystem, and offer sustainable solutions to farming communities.
The initiative will likely cover 15,000 clusters within Gram Panchayats over the next two years, reaching an estimated 1 crore farmers across 7.5 lakh hectares of farmland.
The officials will prioritize areas where farmers already practice natural farming and focus on strengthening organizations such as FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations), SRLMs, and PACS.
The plan includes establishing 10,000 Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs) to give farmers easy access to ready-to-use natural farming inputs.
NF Model Demonstration Farms
The scheme will also include the creation of 2,000 NF Model Demonstration Farms, set up at Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), agricultural universities, and in the fields of farmers already practicing natural farming.
These farms will function as training hubs, educating farmers on natural farming practices, including the preparation of inputs like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit.
The program also targets training 18.75 lakh farmers, enabling them to prepare and distribute essential inputs within their communities.
The officials will deploy 30,000 Krishi Sakhis to assist and guide farmers in adopting these practices.
The long-term benefits of NMNF include reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, improved soil fertility, and enhanced food security.
The initiative also promises to mitigate health risks associated with the use of harmful chemicals in farming.
Furthermore, by increasing soil carbon content and improving water use efficiency, the scheme will promote sustainable farming practices that are better adapted to climate change challenges, such as floods, droughts, and waterlogging.
To ensure the success of the scheme, farmers will benefit from a simplified certification system for their natural farming produce, along with a common branding for marketing.
The officials will also use real-time monitoring through an online portal, employing geo-tagging to track progress.
The mission will further converge with existing government schemes and initiatives to enhance the local livestock population, improve market access for farmers, and support the development of additional natural farming infrastructure.
The officials will explore partnerships with national and international organizations to facilitate market linkages, particularly in local farmers’ markets and Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs).
In addition, the mission will engage students in agricultural programs focused on natural farming, including Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Diploma courses, fostering the next generation of agricultural professionals.
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