Organic farming offers promising sustainability prospects in Himalayan foothills and north-western India: A review

Abstract

The present review study was conducted during 2024 (January-December) at Department of Agribusiness Management, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Himachal Pradesh, India. The use of organic manures is becoming more significant as synthetic fertilisers raise environmental and health issues. By eliminating synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms, organic farming prioritizes ecological balance. Organic manures provide a balanced nutritional composition that enhances soil structure and microbial activity. Moreover, organic farming offers significant socio-economic benefits by empowering smallholder farmers, creating niche markets, and responding to the increasing consumer demand for chemical-free products. In India, particularly in the Northern North-Western and Himalayan foothills regions, organic farming holds immense potential due to the region’s favorable agro-climatic conditions and rich tradition of sustainable agricultural practices. Government initiatives and growing awareness among farmers further strengthen the organic movement, positioning it as a crucial driver for rural development and environmental stewardship. However, a shift towards cash crops and synthetic inputs has led to genetic erosion and environmental concerns. Climate change and industrialization further threaten sustainable agriculture in the region. This review explores the multifaceted importance of organic farming, emphasizing its role in fostering sustainable agriculture and contributing to a resilient agricultural future.