Farmers in Himachal Pradesh are showing an increasing interest in adopting natural farming methods, a practice that is rapidly gaining traction across India. Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, while addressing a two-day international conference at YS Parmar Horticulture and Forestry University in Nauni, emphasized the state’s pivotal role in leading this agricultural shift.
The International conference on Enabling Sustainable Food Systems through Natural Farming (ESFS-NF) was organized at the University focused on enabling sustainable food systems through natural farming, highlighted the importance of environmentally friendly farming techniques that do not rely on chemical inputs.
Governor Shukla expressed great satisfaction with the growing enthusiasm for natural farming in Himachal Pradesh and across other Indian states. “It is a matter of great contentment that other states are coming forward to adopt this method,” Shukla remarked, reinforcing the impact that Himachal’s success with natural farming is having on a national scale.
He emphasized that natural farming, which relies on organic inputs and sustainable practices, offers a healthier and more sustainable alternative to conventional farming that often involves heavy chemical use.
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The conference, attended by agricultural experts, policymakers, and farmers from across India and abroad, aimed to share knowledge and experiences in natural farming. One of the key speakers at the event was Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, who is a well-known advocate of natural farming. Governor Devvrat, in his keynote address, stressed the role of natural farming in ensuring food security while maintaining ecological balance. He noted that Himachal Pradesh’s efforts in promoting natural farming have set an example for the rest of the country to follow, particularly in states that are grappling with the adverse effects of chemical farming on soil health and water resources.
Natural farming in Himachal Pradesh has gained momentum over the past few years, with numerous farmers transitioning to this method under government initiatives aimed at promoting organic agriculture. The state has provided training and resources to farmers, helping them reduce their dependence on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Farmers have reported increased soil fertility, improved crop yields, and reduced production costs since switching to natural farming practices.
The conference also featured interactive sessions where farmers shared their experiences with natural farming and discussed the challenges and opportunities that come with adopting such practices. Experts discussed strategies for expanding the reach of natural farming, including the need for more research, government support, and market access for naturally grown produce.
Governor Shukla praised the collective efforts of farmers and institutions in driving the natural farming movement, calling it a key step towards sustainable agriculture in India. The discussions from the event are expected to further strengthen the national dialogue on organic and natural farming, ultimately contributing to the creation of a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector in the country.
The conference concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to promote natural farming as a viable solution to the pressing issues of soil degradation, water scarcity, and food insecurity, with Himachal Pradesh continuing to lead the way in this important movement.