The Government of India has taken a significant leap toward sustainable agriculture by launching the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). Approved by the Union Cabinet on November 25, 2024, this ₹2,481 crore mission aims to promote natural and eco-friendly farming practices across the country. Over the next two years, the initiative targets to benefit 1 crore farmers and cover around 750,000 hectares of land. By integrating efforts from earlier programs such as the Bhartiya Prakratik Krishi Paddhati and the Gobardhan Mission, NMNF seeks to transform India’s agricultural landscape through Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) and other localized methods.
Key Objectives of NMNF
The NMNF is designed to promote farming that is free of synthetic chemicals and emphasizes the use of bio-based, locally sourced inputs. It supports a holistic approach that enhances soil health, minimizes costs for farmers, and ensures long-term productivity.
Funding and Allocation
The mission has a total outlay of ₹2,481 crore. The funding is shared between the Centre and States, with ₹1,584 crore coming from the central government and ₹897 crore from the states. The financial support extends until 2025–26.
Implementation Strategy
The NMNF will be implemented through 15,000 clusters located at the Gram Panchayat level. These clusters will primarily include farmers already practicing natural farming or those engaged through rural livelihood missions and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). Each cluster will receive dedicated training and resources to scale up their operations effectively.
Capacity Building and Training
To ensure farmers are well-equipped with natural farming practices, 2,000 model demonstration farms will be set up across Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and Agricultural Universities (AUs). These model farms will showcase preparation techniques for essential natural inputs like Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, and Ghanjeevamrit. Additionally, 30,000 Krishi Sakhis will be mobilized to guide and assist farmers throughout their natural farming journey.
Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs)
The mission plans to establish 10,000 Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs) that will supply farmers with ready-to-use natural farming inputs. These centers will reduce dependency on market-based synthetic fertilizers and ensure easy accessibility to sustainable alternatives.
Scientific and Practical Challenges
Despite its potential, the mission faces some concerns from agricultural scientists. Critics point out that natural farming alone might not meet the nutrient demands of certain crops like paddy, which require high amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Organic manures, although beneficial for soil health, may not be sufficient to ensure optimal yields without supplementary inputs.
Connecting Past Efforts with Present Goals
The NMNF builds upon several earlier government efforts, particularly the Bhartiya Prakratik Krishi Paddhati launched in 2019–20. Additionally, initiatives like the Ganga Natural Farming Corridor and other regional pilot projects have provided valuable insights and laid the groundwork for this broader national rollout.
Objective Questions for Competitive Exams
Q.1. What is the total financial outlay of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)?
a) ₹1,000 crore
b) ₹3,500 crore
c) ₹2,481 crore
Answer: c) ₹2,481 crore
Q.2. How many farmers are expected to benefit from NMNF?
a) 50 lakh
b) 1 crore
c) 2 crore
Answer: b) 1 crore
Q.3. Which earlier program is integrated into the NMNF?
a) PM-KISAN
b) Bhartiya Prakratik Krishi Paddhati
c) Soil Health Card Scheme
Answer: b) Bhartiya Prakratik Krishi Paddhati
Q.4. What are Jeevamrit and Beejamrit?
a) Traditional irrigation tools
b) Organic farming inputs
c) Genetically modified seeds
Answer: b) Organic farming inputs
Q.5. What is the role of Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs) under NMNF?
a) Sell chemical fertilizers
b) Supply ready-to-use natural farming inputs
c) Import agricultural equipment
Answer: b) Supply ready-to-use natural farming inputs
Q.6. Which of the following is a potential challenge of natural farming mentioned by scientists?
a) High cost of farming
b) Nutrient deficiencies in soil
c) Increased water usage
Answer: b) Nutrient deficiencies in soil
