National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF): A Comprehensive Overview
The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) is a transformative initiative aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices in India. Launched as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, the mission seeks to empower farmers while addressing environmental and health concerns related to conventional farming methods.
Background and Evolution of the NMNF
From Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) to NMNF
1. 2019:
- ZBNF was renamed as Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhti (BPKP) and integrated as a sub-scheme under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY).
- Financial assistance of ₹12,200 per hectare for three years was provided under BPKP.
2. 2023-24:
- BPKP was restructured and renamed as the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), emphasizing a more focused and expanded approach.
Rationale Behind the NMNF
1. Soil and Environmental Health
- Intensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has degraded soil fertility.
- The NMNF aims to rejuvenate soil health and promote sustainable farming practices.
2. Cost-Effective Farming
- High input costs of conventional farming strain farmers financially.
- NMNF supports farmers in reducing dependency on costly external inputs like synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
3. Climate Resilience
- Natural farming fosters climate-resilient practices by reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainable water use.
4. Public Health Concerns
- The growing demand for chemical-free food underscores the importance of natural farming to ensure healthier diets.
Key Features of the NMNF
1. Aim and Scale
- Objective: To promote natural farming among one crore farmers across India.
- Scope: Nationwide adoption, with special emphasis on regions practicing intensive chemical agriculture.
2. Cluster-Based Approach
- Clusters: Establishment of 15,000 clusters at the Gram Panchayat level for focused implementation.
- Benefits: Clusters ensure better resource allocation, localized support, and community-based learning.
3. Bio-Input Resource Centers (BRCs)
- Target: Establishment of 10,000 BRCs.
- Purpose: Easy access to bio-inputs, such as bio-fertilizers, ensuring seamless transition to natural farming.
4. Model Demonstration Farms
- Number: 2000 Natural Farming Model Demonstration Farms.
- Locations: Set up at Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Agricultural Universities (AUs), and farmers’ fields.
- Support: Farmers are trained by Farmer Master Trainers experienced in natural farming techniques.
5. Certification and Market Access
- Simplified Certification: Ensures easier access to markets for natural farming products.
- Dedicated Branding: Focus on creating a unique identity for natural farming produce to enhance marketability.
What is Natural Farming?
Natural farming, rooted in traditional ecological knowledge, involves minimal intervention with natural processes. It aligns with agro-ecological principles and seeks to create self-sustaining ecosystems.
Key Practices in Natural Farming
- Minimal Soil Disturbance: Avoiding plowing or tilling to preserve soil structure.
- Use of Organic Inputs: Utilizing farm-based inputs like cow dung and plant residues.
- Biodiversity and Polyculture: Encouraging diverse crop systems to mimic natural ecosystems.
- Water Conservation: Adopting water-efficient practices.
- Natural Pest Management: Using biological agents and crop rotations to control pests.
Natural Farming vs. Organic Farming
| Aspect | Natural Farming | Organic Farming |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy | Focuses on creating self-sustaining ecosystems. | Based on structured certification standards. |
| Inputs | No external inputs; relies on local resources. | Allows organic fertilizers and pesticides. |
| Certification | Minimal certification requirements. | Requires stringent certification. |
| Intervention | Avoids tilling, fertilizers, and chemicals. | Permits controlled use of organic inputs. |
Benefits of Natural Farming
1. Environmental Sustainability
- Protects soil health and reduces pollution caused by chemical inputs.
- Supports biodiversity and maintains ecological balance.
2. Climate Resilience
- Encourages practices such as drought-resistant crops and sustainable water use, making farming more adaptable to climate variability.
3. Healthier Food
- Eliminates harmful residues of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, offering safer, more nutritious food.
4. Economic Viability
- Reduces reliance on costly chemical inputs.
- Long-term improvements in soil health can lead to increased productivity.
Challenges in Adopting Natural Farming
1. Knowledge and Training
- Farmers need an in-depth understanding of local ecosystems and sustainable practices.
- Training programs must address gaps in knowledge.
2. Labor-Intensive Practices
- Transitioning to natural farming often requires higher initial labor inputs.
3. Market Penetration
- Natural farming produce struggles with limited market access and consumer awareness.
- Certification issues can further complicate market entry.
Government Initiatives to Promote Natural Farming
1. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)
- Promotes water-efficient irrigation systems like drip and sprinkler irrigation compatible with natural farming.
2. Soil Health Card Scheme (2015)
- Provides farmers with detailed insights into soil health, helping them adopt location-specific natural farming practices.
3. National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
- Encourages sustainable practices like organic farming and agroforestry, aligning closely with natural farming objectives.
4. National Organic Farming Research Institute (NOFRI)
- Focuses on research and technology development for organic and natural farming.
States Leading the Natural Farming Movement
- Andhra Pradesh: Pioneered the Zero Budget Natural Farming approach.
- Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat: Actively implementing state-wide natural farming programs.
- Kerala, Jharkhand, and Odisha: Promoting localized natural farming initiatives.
Other states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu are also exploring natural farming models.
Way Ahead
1. Strengthen Training and Awareness: Empower farmers with knowledge through capacity-building programs and model farms.
2. Incentivize Natural Farming: Expand financial support beyond initial assistance to incentivize the transition phase.
3. Improve Market Access:
- Create robust supply chains and marketing strategies for natural farming produce.
- Facilitate certification processes for market acceptance.
4. Encourage Research and Innovation: Develop location-specific solutions and scalable models through research institutions.
5. Community Participation: Encourage farmer cooperatives and self-help groups to share knowledge and resources.
Conclusion
The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) represents a significant step toward sustainable agriculture in India. By integrating traditional wisdom with modern practices, the mission seeks to address critical challenges like soil degradation, climate change, and food safety. With strong government support, farmer participation, and market alignment, natural farming can become a cornerstone of India’s agricultural transformation, ensuring long-term ecological and economic sustainability.
Daily Mains Practice Questions
UPSC (CSE) Mains Questions Based on National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)
GS Paper 3: Agriculture, Environment, and Science and Technology
| [Q1.] Discuss the objectives and key features of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). How does it aim to transform Indian agriculture? (250 words) |
| [Q2.] Evaluate the environmental and economic benefits of natural farming compared to conventional farming methods. Support your answer with examples from Indian states implementing natural farming. (250 words) |
| [Q3.] Analyze the challenges faced in adopting natural farming practices in India. Suggest measures to address these challenges effectively. (250 words) |
| [Q4.] Critically examine the role of natural farming in ensuring food security and climate resilience in India.(250 words) |
| [Q5.] Compare and contrast natural farming with organic farming. Which approach is more suitable for achieving sustainable agricultural goals in India?(250 words) |
| [Q6.] What role can technological advancements and research institutions play in the successful implementation of natural farming practices under NMNF?(250 words) |
| [Q7.] How does the NMNF align with other government initiatives like the Soil Health Card Scheme and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana in promoting sustainable agriculture?(250 words) |
| [Q8.] Examine the potential of the cluster-based approach in the National Mission on Natural Farming. How can it enhance community-based farming practices in India?(250 words) |
| [Q9.] Discuss the significance of Bio-Input Resource Centers (BRCs) under NMNF in promoting sustainable agriculture.(250 words) |
| [Q10.] What are the implications of natural farming on India’s export market for agricultural products? Analyze the role of certification and branding in boosting the marketability of natural farming produce.(250 words) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)?
Answer:—
The NMNF is a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, designed to promote sustainable and chemical-free farming practices across India. It targets reducing dependency on external inputs and improving soil health.
2. How is natural farming different from organic farming?
Answer:—
- Natural Farming: Emphasizes minimal intervention, relying on self-sustaining ecosystems with no synthetic or even organic fertilizers..
- Organic Farming: Adheres to certification standards allowing organic fertilizers and structured interventions like tilling.
3. What are the key objectives of the NMNF?
Answer:—
- To promote natural farming among one crore farmers.
- Reduce input costs and dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
- Enhance soil health, promote biodiversity, and ensure climate resilience in agriculture.
4. What are Bio-Input Resource Centers (BRCs)?
Answer:—
BRCs are centers established under NMNF to provide farmers with easy access to essential bio-inputs like bio-fertilizers and plant-based products, facilitating the transition to natural farming.
5. Which states are leading in natural farming practices?
Answer:—
Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, and Odisha are among the states actively implementing natural farming initiatives.
6. What are the challenges of adopting natural farming?
Answer:—
- Requires a deep understanding of local ecosystems.
- Transition can be labor-intensive with lower initial yields.
- Limited market demand and challenges in certification.
7. How does the cluster-based approach work under NMNF?
Answer:—
The NMNF adopts a cluster-based approach by forming 15,000 clusters at Gram Panchayat levels, enabling resource-sharing, localized training, and focused implementation of natural farming practices.
8. What are the environmental benefits of natural farming?
Answer:—
- Enhances soil fertility and prevents erosion.
- Reduces water usage and pollution from chemical inputs.
- Supports biodiversity and promotes ecosystem stability.
9. How does NMNF promote market access for natural farming produce?
Answer:—
It simplifies certification processes and introduces dedicated branding strategies to help farmers market their natural farming produce effectively.
10. What is the role of Farmer Master Trainers under NMNF?
Answer:—
Farmer Master Trainers provide training and support to farmers in adopting natural farming techniques. They also assist in setting up Model Demonstration Farms.
