The Union Cabinet of India has approved the launch of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. The scheme has been allocated a total budget of INR2,481 crore (approx. $ 294 million), with INR1,584 crore coming from the Government of India and INR897 crore from the states, extending up to the 15th Finance Commission period (2025-26).
Objective of the Mission
The National Mission on Natural Farming aims to promote chemical-free farming methods across the country. The approach is deeply rooted in traditional knowledge passed down by generations of farmers. Natural farming will involve using local livestock-integrated methods, diversified crop systems, and agro-ecological principles suited to the local environment. The focus is on reducing reliance on purchased external inputs and enhancing the sustainability of agricultural practices. By doing so, it seeks to provide safe, nutritious food, strengthen soil ecosystems, promote biodiversity and enhance resilience to climate risks.
Implementation and Reach
The mission will be rolled out in a mission mode across 15,000 clusters in Gram Panchayats over the next two years. The aim is to reach 1 crore farmers and initiate natural farming practices in an area covering 7.5 lakh hectares. Special focus will be placed on areas where natural farming is already practiced or where farmers are part of Self-Reliant Groups (SRLM), Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). Additionally, 10,000 Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs) will be established to ensure the availability of ready-to-use natural farming inputs for farmers.
Model Farms and Training Programs
The mission will establish around 2000 Natural Farming (NF) Model Demonstration Farms at Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Agricultural Universities (AUs), and farmers’ fields. These farms will serve as centers for training, where farmers can learn the NF practices, including the preparation of inputs such as Jeevamrit and Beejamrit. A total of 18.75 lakh farmers will be trained to prepare their own inputs using their livestock or obtain them from BRCs. The mission will also deploy 30,000 Krishi Sakhis/ Community Resource Persons (CRPs) to assist with awareness generation, farmer mobilization, and ongoing support in the clusters.
Impact of Natural Farming Practices
The key benefits of natural farming practices include a reduction in the cost of cultivation, decreased dependence on external inputs, and improved soil health and fertility. These methods also enhance resilience to climate challenges like droughts, floods, and waterlogging. Additionally, natural farming can lower health risks associated with exposure to harmful chemicals, such as pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. The practices will also help build a sustainable agricultural system, contributing to a healthier environment for future generations.
The improvement in soil carbon content, water use efficiency, and increased biodiversity will support the long-term sustainability of farming. Farmers’ families will benefit from healthier, more nutritious food, and the natural farming approach will contribute to safeguarding the environment.
Certification and Market Access
Farmers practicing natural farming will have access to a simplified certification system, helping them to market their produce more effectively. A dedicated common branding will be introduced to promote natural farming products. The implementation of the mission will be monitored in real-time through an online portal that uses geo-tagging and references.
Also read: Electro-Agriculture: Harnessing Electricity to Revolutionize Farming Practices
Convergence with Other Schemes
To enhance the mission’s impact, the government will explore convergence with existing schemes and support structures from both the government and national and international organizations. This includes boosting the local livestock population, developing more NF Model Demonstration Farms at Central Cattle Breeding Farms and Regional Fodder Stations, and improving market linkages through local markets such as Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) Mandis, Haats, and Depots.
Engagement with Students
The mission will also engage students through the Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) program. Additionally, undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma courses focusing on natural farming will be introduced to build awareness and support the next generation of farmers.