Govt promoting natural farming: Minister NS Tomar

New Delhi, April 26: Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar on Tuesday said that the government is encouraging agricultural practices that work in harmony with nature, reduce the cost of production and ensure good quality produce and profit to the farmers. While addressing a National Workshop on ‘Innovative Agriculture’ organized by NITI Aayog, the Union Minister also emphasized the importance of science and technology in natural farming. Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Parushottam Rupala pointed out that the awareness about nutritious food, good health and immunity has increased during the pandemic. In this regard, he also highlighted the role of natural farming in providing nutritious food. He stressed the importance of cattle and livestock in ensuring better nutrition, according to a released issued by NITI Aayog. Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, mentioned that the time is ripe to encourage natural farming and share the benefits with the people at large, especially the farmers. The shared experiences of the States will help build a robust roadmap to adopt innovative agricultural practices in the country. Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat said that that the shift to natural farming has resulted in a significant reduction in the cost of cultivation, improved soil health and increased yield. He said that adopting natural farming would help in optimizing the work of the farmers and benefiting the environment in a big way. This reduces the use of water. According to the release, the workshop had four technical sessions: (i) a panel discussion on natural farming in States, (ii) natural farming for soil health restoration and climate change mitigation, (iii) promotion of natural farming, (iv) innovations in natural farming. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy emphasized the need to increase research on natural farming. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami mentioned the current status, progress and challenges of natural farming in the state. NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant said that natural farming is the need of the hour and it is important to identify scientific ways so farmers can be assured direct benefits from natural farming and higher incomes. (UNI)