Uttar Pradesh Emerges as a Premier Natural Farming Hub in India
The state of Uttar Pradesh is rapidly transforming into a significant center for natural farming practices across the nation. This strategic shift is part of a broader initiative to promote sustainable agriculture and reduce environmental impact while enhancing farmer livelihoods.
Expansion Across All Districts with Substantial Government Investment
Natural farming has now been successfully expanded to cover an impressive 94,300 hectares of agricultural land. This expansion spans across all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh, demonstrating a comprehensive statewide implementation. To support and accelerate this growth, the Yogi Adityanath-led government has announced a substantial investment of ₹298 crore. This funding is earmarked specifically for the further expansion and development of natural farming infrastructure and training programs.
Special Focus on Bundelkhand Region for Enhanced Sustainability
A special emphasis is being placed on the Bundelkhand region, which comprises seven districts. The government plans to implement measures aimed at improving water retention capabilities in this area. Enhanced water retention is expected to make farming practices more sustainable over the long term, reduce irrigation costs for farmers, and mitigate the effects of water scarcity. This targeted approach addresses regional challenges while promoting ecological balance.
Reducing Chemical Dependence Through Traditional Preparations
The adoption of natural farming in Uttar Pradesh involves the widespread use of traditional organic preparations such as Jeevamrit and Ghanjeevamrit. These natural inputs are derived from cow dung, urine, and other locally available materials. Their application helps significantly reduce farmers' dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This shift not only lowers production costs but also improves soil health and crop quality, leading to safer food products.
Transforming Food Providers into Health Providers
A visionary goal of the Yogi government is to transform traditional food providers into health providers. By promoting natural farming, the administration aims to ensure that the food produced is free from harmful chemical residues, thereby contributing to better public health outcomes. This initiative aligns with broader national and global movements toward organic and sustainable food systems.
The comprehensive strategy includes training programs for farmers, subsidies for organic inputs, and market linkages for naturally grown produce. As Uttar Pradesh continues to expand its natural farming footprint, it sets a precedent for other states to follow in embracing eco-friendly agricultural practices.
