An ancient Indian formulation (Kunapajala) for plant protection and manure use to enhance agricultural productivity under natural farming

Abstract

Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy because 65% of our population resides in rural areas, and 47% of the population depends on this sector for their livelihood. Keeping these facts in view, focusing on rural development seems to be essential. After successful implementation of the Green Revolution programme, definitely India has achieved its goal of food security. Currently, our focus has changed from food security to nutritional security with quality produce. Before Indian agriculture, there were many challenges, such as social and environmental issues, which can be catered to by the adoption of age-old agricultural practices after revalidation in present-day farmland cultivation or in the Indian production system. Natural farming is another approach based on the principles of nature and farmland ecology. This aforesaid farming is the need of hour so action should be taken at earliest and our ancient rich agricultural heritage must be utilized as a tool to overcome the current alarming Indian agricultural challenges. For nutrient and pest management, our ancient formulation such as Kunapajala may be beneficial for changing climatic scenarios to meet the quality requirements of Indian households by revitalizing and restrengthening our natural resource bases as a top priority.