Natural farming: A sustainable path for modern agriculture

Abstract

Agriculture is the backbone of India, as over 50% of small and marginal farmers rely on it for their livelihoods. However, the extensive use of chemical fertilizers harms the soil, negatively impacting the quality of agricultural produce. This reliance on chemical inputs often drives farmers into substantial debt. In recent years, natural and organic farming has emerged as a sustainable solution to these challenges. Natural farming involves working with nature, avoiding chemical fertilizers, while organic farming uses ecologically-based pest control and fertilizers derived from animal and plant waste, along with nitrogen-fixing cover crops. Practices like no-tillage, mulching, and live mulching in natural farming support high-quality agricultural output and help preserve the ecosystem. Although natural and organic products tend to be more expensive than conventional ones, the higher prices offer farmers a pathway out of debt and a chance at a more sustainable livelihood.