National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)

Context:

The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) has been launched as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, with a total financial outlay of Rs. 2481 crore. This mission is aligned with the 15th Finance Commission's recommendations, which cover the period up to 2025-26.

Background

Previously, Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) was renamed Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhti (BPKP) and was a sub-scheme under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY) in 2019. The initiative was further restructured and renamed National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) starting from the financial year 2023-24.

Key Highlights of the NMNF Scheme:

1. Implementation:

• The mission will be implemented in 15,000 clusters across willing Gram Panchayats, aiming to reach 1 crore farmers.
• It will promote Natural Farming (NF) on 7.5 lakh hectares of land over the next two years.
• Special emphasis will be placed on regions where Natural Farming practices are already prevalent.

1. Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs):

• The scheme plans to set up 10,000 need-based Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs), ensuring easy access to ready-to-use bio-inputs for farmers.

1. Model Demonstration Farms:

• Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Agricultural Universities (AUs), and farmers' fields will host Model Demonstration Farms to provide hands-on training and showcase best practices for Natural Farming.

1. Awareness Generation:

• Krishi Sakhi (agriculture ambassadors) will mobilize and assist willing farmers, providing guidance and hand-holding support for adopting Natural Farming.

1. Certification:

• The scheme will introduce an easy and simple certification process, with a dedicated common branding for market access, ensuring that products produced through natural farming can be easily identified and marketed.

1. Monitoring:

• Implementation progress will be monitored in real-time using a geo-tagged online portal, ensuring transparency and efficiency in tracking the scheme's outcomes.

1. Convergence:

• The scheme will explore convergence with existing schemes and support structures to enhance its reach and effectiveness.

About Natural Farming (NF):

Natural farming is chemical-free and livestock-based, integrating crops, trees, and livestock with functional biodiversity to create sustainable agricultural systems. Key components of Natural Farming include:

• Beejamrit: Seed treatment using cow dung and other organic materials.
• Jivamrit: A bio-stimulant made to promote microorganism activity in the soil.
• Mulching: Covering the soil surface with live crops or dead biomass to retain moisture and improve soil health.
• Whapasa: Activating earthworms in the soil for water vapour condensation, improving soil structure.
• Plant Protection: Using biological concoctions to protect crops from pests without chemicals.

The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) seeks to promote sustainable, chemical-free farming practices across India. By leveraging local resources, enhancing awareness, and facilitating easy access to inputs and certification, the scheme aims to empower farmers and build a resilient, eco-friendly agricultural system.