Progress of Natural Farming under the National Mission for Natural Farming

Why in news

The Union Cabinet approved the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a centrally sponsored scheme to promote chemical-free, traditional farming methods across the country.

Exam relevance

GS1, GS3 · Society, Economy, Environment & Ecology · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The Union Cabinet approved the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) on 25th November 2024.
2. NMNF is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented across the country.
3. Natural Farming is a chemical-free farming method involving livestock integration, diversified crop systems, and Indian traditional knowledge.
4. It aims to improve soil health, restore ecosystems, reduce farmer input costs, and enhance climate resilience.
5. The mission recognizes the interdependence of soil, water, microbiome, plants, animals, climate, and human needs.
6. 527 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), 76 Agriculture Universities (AUs), and 194 Local Natural Farming Institutes (LNFIs) are identified to support cluster-level implementation.
7. 18 Centres of Natural Farming Institutes (CoNFs) are identified for training scientists, officials, and Farmer Master Trainers.
8. Community Resource Persons (CRPs) are deployed at the cluster level.

Prelims pointers

• National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) is a centrally sponsored scheme.
• Natural Farming is chemical-free and integrates livestock and traditional knowledge.
• Key institutions identified for support include KVKs, Agriculture Universities, and Local Natural Farming Institutes.
• Training is provided to scientists, officials, and Farmer Master Trainers.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of the National Mission on Natural Farming in promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing climate resilience in India. What are the key institutional mechanisms being put in place for its implementation?

Static linkage

The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) aligns with India's broader goals of sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate change mitigation. It draws upon traditional Indian agricultural practices, which are often rooted in ecological principles and local knowledge systems.

Significance

Natural farming promotes ecological balance by avoiding chemical inputs, thereby improving soil health and biodiversity. It reduces farmers' dependence on costly external inputs, potentially increasing their profitability and resilience to climate shocks. The mission's focus on traditional knowledge and integrated farming systems can contribute to a more sustainable and self-reliant agricultural sector.