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HomePosts Tagged "organic farming"
Agbiologicals, Biofertilizers, Fungicides, Herbicides, Opinions, World

By Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder, Bionema Group, Wales, United Kingdom

The agricultural landscape is profoundly transforming as the global drive toward sustainability accelerates. The sector’s projected growth to a staggering $1.2 trillion by 2034 signals immense economic potential and underscores a significant shift toward environmentally responsible farming practices. With the agricultural biologicals market forecasted to surge from $16.7 billion in 2024 to $31.8 billion by 2029 (Markets and Markets, 2024), alongside significant expansions in agrochemicals and organic food markets, we are on the brink of a revolution in how food is grown, protected, and consumed.

Unprecedented Growth in Agricultural Biologicals

The global agricultural biological market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5 per cent, reaching $31.8 billion by 2029. Agricultural biologicals—including biopesticides, biofertilisers, and biostimulants—are essential to sustainable farming practices. These products enhance crop protection, improve nutrient efficiency, and restore soil health while avoiding the environmental damage associated with synthetic chemicals.

Several key factors are driving this shift:

•Consumer Demand for Organic Produce: Globally, consumers increasingly seek natural, chemical-free products, pushing farmers to adopt biological alternatives.

•Stricter Regulations: Governments in Europe, North America, and other regions are implementing stricter controls on chemical inputs, speeding up the transition to biologicals.

•Environmental Awareness: The adverse effects of chemical-intensive farming on ecosystems are becoming more apparent. Biologicals offer a sustainable solution with minimal environmental harm.

Regional Drivers of Growth

The Asia-Pacific region is set to be a significant growth engine for agricultural biologicals. Countries like India and China, with vast agricultural sectors and growing populations, are increasingly focusing on sustainable farming practices. Thanks to its stringent regulatory environment, Europe continues to play a leading role, mainly through the EU’s Farm to Fork strategy, which aims for a 50 per cent reduction in pesticide use by 2030.

The U.S. market is expanding rapidly in North America due to increased investment in biological research and innovation. Latin America, especially Brazil, is emerging as a critical player in biologicals, driven by its leadership in organic farming and alternatives to agrochemicals.

Agrochemicals: A Market in Transition

Despite the rise of biologicals, the agrochemicals market is expected to grow from $365.6 billion in 2024 to $491.69 billion by 2032 (Market Research Future, 2024). However, the narrative surrounding agrochemicals is shifting. Farmers are increasingly adopting integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine biologicals with synthetic chemicals, balancing yield targets with environmental sustainability.

Agrochemicals will still play a role in global food production, but their use will increasingly be complemented by biological solutions to reduce environmental impact. This hybrid approach is critical in regions where fully transitioning to biological methods is not feasible due to scale, cost, or other constraints.

Organic Food: A Powerhouse Market

The global organic food market is forecasted to rise from $228.35 billion in 2024 to $658.38 billion by 2034 (Precedence Research, 2024). This reflects a significant shift in consumer preferences toward healthier, environmentally friendly food choices.

Organic farming emphasises sustainability, biodiversity, and soil health, making agricultural biologicals a natural fit for this market. Biopesticides, biofertilisers, and biostimulants are at the core of organic farming systems, replacing chemical inputs with natural solutions aligned with organic certification principles. Countries like Germany, the U.S., and France lead this trend, with robust organic farming sectors and consumers willing to pay premiums for organic products.

Regulatory frameworks shaping the market

The regulatory landscape is pivotal to the growth of agricultural biologicals. In the European Union, the regulatory framework has become increasingly favourable for biologicals, particularly with the implementation of the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork strategy, which promote sustainable food systems and aim to reduce pesticide use significantly. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also streamlined the biopesticide registration process, encouraging faster adoption.

In Brazil, one of the world’s largest agricultural markets, regulatory reforms have accelerated the approval of biological products. The country’s leadership in organic farming and favourable policy environment make it a key player in driving biological adoption in Latin America. Similarly, India has introduced initiatives through the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and its Farm Science Centres (KVKs) network to promote biological products.

However, challenges remain, particularly in harmonising regulations across regions. Global regulatory collaboration is necessary to establish consistent standards, reduce registration bottlenecks, and foster innovation.

Key trends driving growth

1.Innovations in Microbial Technology: Microbial research advances enable the development of highly effective biological products that target specific pests, improve nutrient uptake, and enhance plant resilience. Innovations in formulation technologies, such as encapsulation and controlled-release systems, are improving the stability and efficacy of biologicals, making them more viable for large-scale farming.

2.Consumer Awareness and Organic Certification: As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their food choices, demand for organic and sustainably produced food is rising. This shift drives the need for biological inputs that meet organic certification standards, further boosting the adoption of biological solutions.

3.Climate-Smart Agriculture: Agriculture significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Agricultural biologicals, particularly soil microbes, play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by enhancing carbon sequestration, improving soil health, and reducing the carbon footprint of farming practices.

Despite rapid growth, the agricultural biologicals market faces several challenges:

•Regulatory Hurdles: Fragmented regulatory environments across regions slow the approval process for new biological products. Harmonising regulations will be vital in accelerating innovation and adoption.

•Farmer Education and Confidence: Many farmers remain sceptical of biological products due to a lack of knowledge or previous experiences with ineffective or ingenuine products. Education and field demonstrations are essential for building farmer confidence and ensuring widespread adoption.

• Supply Chain and Scalability: The infrastructure needed to produce, store, and distribute biological products at scale is still developing. Investments in supply chain logistics, cold storage, and distribution networks will be critical to meeting future demand.

The Future of Sustainable Agriculture

The $1.2 trillion surge in the agricultural biologicals, agrochemicals, and organic food markets reflects more than just economic growth—it signals a global commitment to transforming agriculture into a sustainable, eco-friendly industry. As the world grapples with climate change, food security, and environmental degradation, the rise of agricultural biologicals offers a pathway to a healthier and more sustainable future.

Innovations in microbial technology, growing consumer demand for organic products, and favourable regulatory frameworks are positioning agricultural biologicals as a cornerstone of global food production. By investing in these sustainable solutions today, we are laying the foundation for a future where agriculture feeds the world and preserves the planet for generations to come.

Agriculture is no longer just about yields; it’s about balancing productivity with responsibility. As the agricultural biological sector evolves, it is poised to create a future where farming is both economically viable and ecologically sound.

By Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder,

India, Interaction, Organic, Soil Health, Sustainability

He was speaking during the publication ceremony of the Marathi translation of the Hindi book ‘Naisargik Sheti’ written by Acharya Devvrat organised by the Agrovision Foundation.

The indiscriminate use of chemical fertilisers like urea, DAP, and pesticides has led to barren lands and an increase in disease incidences. Thus, Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat urged farmers to embrace organic farming to restore soil fertility, reduce costs, increase production, and promote better health.

This appeal was made during the publication ceremony of the Marathi translation of the Hindi book ‘Naisargik Sheti’ written by Acharya Devvrat. The event, organised by the Agrovision Foundation, took place at Dr Vasantrao Deshpande Auditorium on Sunday. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari presided over the program, alongside prominent dignitaries including Dr. Sharad Gadakh, Vice Chancellor of Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Agricultural University, Dr. Nitin Patil, Vice Chancellor of Maharashtra Animal and Fisheries University, Dr C.K. Timbadia, Ravi Bortkar, President of Agrovision Foundation, Ramesh Mankar, Treasurer, and others. The ground-breaking ceremony of the Agrovision Farmers Training Centre was also held, and the translator of ‘Naisargik Sheti,’ Nitin Naigaonkar, along with editorial guide Shailesh Pandey, were felicitated.

Acharya Devvrat emphasised that chemical farming is a conspiracy imposed on farmers and challenged agricultural researchers to demonstrate that chemical fertilizers do not increase farming costs or degrade soil quality. He contrasted organic farming with natural farming, highlighting the benefits of using indigenous cow dung and cow urine to enhance soil fertility and crop yields.

Praising Nitin Gadkari’s visionary leadership in the agricultural sector, Acharya Devvrat commended his initiatives, including Agrovision, training centers, and efforts to make farmers self-reliant.

Ravi Boratkar conducted the foreword, while Asawari Galande-Deshpande moderated the event. The vote of thanks was delivered by Ramesh Mankar.

A New Market for Farmers: Nitin Gadkari

During the event, Nitin Gadkari Union Minister Road Transport & Highways and Chief Patron of Agrovision announced plans to establish a market where farmers can directly sell their naturally farmed products and fruits to consumers, ensuring direct benefits for the farming community. He also revealed that the country’s first Agro Convention Center will be set up within the premises of Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Agricultural University.

The upcoming Agrovision Farmers Training Center will provide facilities for soil and water testing, and modern training in new technologies. Gadkari emphasized that measures such as encouraging natural farming, river and canal deepening, and enhancing seed and plant nurseries will lower farming costs, increase production, and help farmers become debt-free, ultimately contributing to the prevention of farmer suicides. He urged the widespread distribution of Acharya Devvrat’s book ‘Naisargik Sheti’ among all farmers.

A New Chapter in Agrovision’s History: Ravi Boratkar

On Sunday morning, Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated Agrovision’s modern Farmer Training Centre, marking a new chapter in Agrovision’s history. Ravi Boratkar, Chairman of Agrovision Foundation, expressed his pride in this achievement during the event.

He announced that Gadkari’s vision of an agricultural training centre under Agrovision will soon be released. The centre will feature training classes, a 150-seat auditorium for workshops, a library, and labs for soil and water testing. Plans for a future farmer’s market were also shared, emphasising Agrovision’s commitment to supporting farmers through education and market access.

He was speaking during the publication ceremony

AgroPolicy, Finance, Horticulture, India, Organic, Schemes - Govt, Sustainability

The project includes the creation of over 12,600 jobs and 300 enterprises in organic agriculture.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has launched a project to support farmers and promote sustainable agriculture in the region.

The state government has announced an amount of Rs 84 crore to support the project over the next five years. The initiative is part of a larger effort to promote sustainable agriculture, commercial agriculture and healthy food production.

According to the government statement, the project includes the creation of over 12,600 jobs and 300 enterprises in organic agriculture. The project will also provide training to 10,000 farmers and their families in organic farming and establish 200 commercial and 3,000 low-cost vermicompost units and 100 integrated organic farming system units. The project targets to create around seven organic clusters in every district, covering 2,000 hectares of land. It also aims to convert another 2,000 hectares into organic production. Jammu and Kashmir’s administration has approved 29 projects for sustainable agriculture in the region.

The project includes the creation of over

Company News, India, Organic

The company is registering its presence in Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh

Clover Organic Pvt Ltd has been recently awarded by Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Agriculture Minister, for helping more than 50 FPCs to adopt organic farming of crops, achieving the target of selling 18 MT of Organic Pineapple and 350 MT of Organic Ginger in the State of Mizoram and for Outstanding Contribution in the Agriculture Sector. 

Vanlalremratpuia, CEO, Tuichangral FPC, Khawzawl District, Mizoram, was awarded the Best FPC by the Union Agriculture Minister, at a grand ceremony. The company was motivated to work as a team, guided and supported by all the above agencies to fulfill an order of 18 MT of chemical free pineapple placed by a buyer from Haryana.

The award for Clover Organic was received by CEO Sanjay Agarwal, after achieving this unique achievement, he attributed it to the hard work of the farmers and the trust reposed by them in the organic process in the company and all other supporting agencies. 

CEO Sanjay Agarwal said that the company is registering its presence in 5 states, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh with 55 farmer producer companies and more than 40,000 registered farmers. Clover Organic, a pioneer in the field of organic farming and aquaculture product manufacturing, is also gaining recognition in Andhra Pradesh.

The company is registering its presence in

Organic, World

Intensity and scale of development in India has earned a place of pride for Indians located in Indonesia

Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar interacted with the Indian Diaspora at Bali, Indonesia, under the banner of Balinese & Indian Friendship Association (BIFA). 

Ms Neeta Malhotra of BIFA greeted the Minister and expressed gratitude for meeting with them. Tomar narrated the success in the agriculture sector and the programmes like PM Kisan, crop insurance, organic farming, natural farming, value chain integration, farmers producer organisations, Ayushman Bharat, etc that has transformed the life and the living of the people in rural India. 

Agriculture has proven its role as a saviour to Indian economy and helped providing over 800 million people free food during Covid-19 and post Covid under PM Garib Kalyan Yojna.

The representatives of BIFA thanked the Tomar for his visit and meeting, they also appreciated the intensity and scale of development that is being done in India which has earned place of pride for the Indians located in Indonesia. 

They also sought technical support for agriculture especially for fresh food on the concept of farm to table. 

Intensity and scale of development in India

R&D, Sustainability

APH continues to work alongside its partners to enhance modern agriculture production and ensure a sustainable future for food production

Acadian Plant Health (APH) recently announced the first results of its California almond water use study, which offers promising news for tree nut growers and the almond industry in the drought-affected growing region.

In 2021, the University of California study found that applications of Acadian Organic were beneficial for reducing plant stress under limited water conditions and that when used properly, seaweed-based biostimulants have the capability to help combat drought-induced changes in plants. Both findings represent a significant boost for growers looking for sustainable agriculture solutions in the face of drought challenges.

“Acadian Plant Health is focused on delivering solutions that perform in the field and offer increased survivability and productivity for growers in challenging environments,” said Dr Sarah Maude, Vice-President, Technology at Acadian Plant Health. “These trial results, which are fantastic news for growers, show that biostimulant treatments are a potential new way to aid growers in water management by increasing the plant system’s resiliency and reducing crop productivity losses due to stress – particularly where sustainable solutions to help crops thrive with limited water are key.”

Extension specialist Dr Giulia Marino, along with her team at the 350-acre Kearney Agriculture Research and Extension Center, the University of California’s largest off-campus agricultural research facility, applied four treatments to selected almond trees.

Results from the study independently validate APH’s research, demonstrating they are ready with a solution for the region’s growers. APH continues to work alongside its partners to enhance modern agriculture production and ensure a sustainable future for food production.

APH continues to work alongside its partners

Agro chems – Pesticides, Company News

NOFLY WP is registered for use on multiple crops including the main horticultural, cucurbitaceous, aromatic, herbaceous ornamentals, and leguminous crops

Futureco Bioscience, international manufacturer of sustainable bio-protection and plant bio-stimulants, adds a new registry to the long list of authorisations for one of its most iconic products: NOFLY WP. The company has recently obtained a new registration from Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food of Guatemala for the commercialisation of the bioinsecticide in the Central American country.

Currently NOFLY is registered and commercialised in Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Cyprus, Ivory Coast, Ecuador, Spain, France, Greece, Guatemala, Netherlands, Honduras, Hungary, Italy, Kenya, Morocco, Mexico, Peru, Poland, Dominican Republic, Romania, UK and USA. Notably, in USA, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has approved the use of NOFLY WP in outdoor and residential crops.

NOFLY WP is registered for use on multiple crops including the main horticultural, cucurbitaceous, aromatic, herbaceous ornamentals, and leguminous crops. It is now to be expected that the company will seek out new registration and business opportunities for NOFLY WP in the countries where Futureco Bioscience is growing more, as Brazil and African countries, moving towards a global commercialisation of the product.

NOFLY WP is authorised for use in organic farming in accordance with EU, NOP and JAS standards by internationally recognised certifiers such as OMRI and BCS C fumosorosea is not a plant pathogenic organism and does not produce significant detrimental effects on beneficial insects, including bees and bumblebees.

NOFLY WP is registered for use on

Agro Universities, Agrotech, Organic

The cooperation will aid in the creation of facilities for the exchange of scientists, technologies and experts

The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana and the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), Switzerland signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation in agricultural research and education in the field of organic and natural farming. Dr Charanjit Singh Aulakh, Principal Agronomist, School of Organic Farming, PAU, and Dr Amritbir Singh Riar and Dr Monika Messmer from the FiBL signed the agreement.

Under this agreement, the cooperation shall be implemented by establishing mutual relations between the research and extension streams of both the organisations, and the creation of facilities for the exchange of scientists, technologies and experts. Both the institutions shall strive to get international funding to execute joint research projects in the field of sustainable and organic agriculture.

Sarvjit Singh, Vice-Chancellor; Dr Shammi Kapoor, Registrar; Dr AS Dhatt Director of Research and Dr SS Walia, Director, School of Organic Farming congratulated Dr Aulakh and his team and wished them success in further strengthening the national and international collaborations.

The cooperation will aid in the creation

Agro chems – Fertilizers, AgroPolicy, Nature, Organic, Sustainability

According to M Venkaiah Naidu, organic farming is the way forward

The Vice President, M Venkaiah Naidu underlined the importance of organic farming for sustainable and stable development. He said that natural resources such as soil and water are not unlimited and the future of mankind depends on their conservation.

Addressing a gathering after releasing the book titled Bhumi Suposhan (meaning – soil nutrition) published by Akshay Krishi Parivar at Upa-Rashtrapati Nivas, the Vice President expressed his concern over the degradation of soil due to the overuse of pesticides and fertilisers and stressed the need for creating awareness on this important issue. He also said that unchecked extraction of groundwater is fast depleting our groundwater table leading to a reduction in moisture content in the soil, thus turning fertile land into barren land.

Listing out various benefits of organic farming, the Vice President opined that it not only improves soil health but also reduces farmers’ input costs. Locally available resources such as cow dung and waste organic matter can be used to prepare low-cost organic manure, thus increasing farmers’ income.

Acknowledging Green Revolution’s role in ensuring the country’s food security, Naidu highlighted some of its unintended consequences such as the uncontrolled use of pesticides. Appreciating various governmental and individual efforts for soil conservation, he said the network of laboratories for soil testing is being strengthened and natural farming is being promoted in ecologically sensitive areas such as villages adjacent to the river Ganga.

Mentioning that around six lakh farmers are practising organic farming on approximately 38 lakh hectares of land in India, the Vice President expressed his happiness over the fact that many hilly states successfully adopted organic farming. He said that the smaller states have shown that organic farming is particularly beneficial to our small and marginal farmers. He said that there is a growing awareness among the masses about the harmful effects of chemical farming and they are willing to pay for organic products.

Naidu also stressed the need for the popularisation of traditional farming practices. He wanted agricultural universities to focus more on organic and natural farming and promote innovation and agri-entrepreneurship among the youth. The Vice President said agriculture is not just farmers’ concern, rather all of us are equal stakeholders in its development as food is a basic necessity for everyone. He urged parliamentarians, political parties and policymakers to give priority to agriculture.

Naidu urged people, particularly youngsters, to consume traditional foods that are nutritious and suitable to Indian conditions. 

Praising Akshya Krishi Parivar for bringing out ‘Bhumi Suposhan’ – a commemorative publication of the Nationwide Bhumi Suposhan and Samrakshan Abhiyan, the Vice President wanted this book to be translated into Indian languages so that it could reach the maximum number of farmers. He also asked scientists and researchers to translate their works into people’s languages for the larger benefit of the public. Naidu also stressed that early education should be in the child’s mother tongue. 

Similarly, local language should be used in administration and courts.

Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Kadsiddheshwar Swamiji, Kaneri Math, Maharashtra, Bhagaiah, Member of the National Executive and Ex Sah-Sarkaryawah, Rashriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Manoj Solanki, President, Akshay Krishi Parivar, Dr GR Chintala Govindarajulu, NABARD Chairman, Scientists, Agriculturists and other dignitaries were present.

According to M Venkaiah Naidu, organic farming

Agro Universities, Organic, Sustainability, Textile industry

Discussions were held on the great potential of jute in raising the economy of the country

The ICAR-Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres, Barrackpore, Kolkata recently organised a two-day programme for mega campaign on natural and organic farming in jute-based cropping system among the farmers of major jute growing districts of West Bengal.

The Chief Guest, Dhrubajyoti De, Joint Commissioner (HQ), Barrackpore, Kolkata underlined the great potential of jute in raising the economy of the country. De stressed on considering the soil and water conservation while adopting the modern methods of farming. The role of conservation of nature, soil and water in making the agriculture profitable and sustainable was also highlighted.

Delivering the inaugural address, Dr Gouranga Kar, Director, ICAR-CRIJAF, Barrackpore accentuated on taking the profitable farming to solve the challenges of unemployment and women empowerment into account while implementing natural and organic farming in the farmers’ fields.

The programme was aimed at promoting the knowledge of natural and organic farming in the production of the good quality organic jute fibre suitable for diversified use and export.

The workshop registered participation by 100 farmers, farm women and scientists of the ICAR-CRIJAF, Barrackpore.

Discussions were held on the great potential

Organic

The endeavour was to raise consciousness about the value of food grains, organic food

Pacific Mall DDN has organised a 7-day Organic Farmers Fest to celebrate the Baisakhi and the spring harvest season.

Many dignitaries like Akshay Konde, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Uttarakhand Police; Anil Kumar Sahni, General Manager, Uttarakhand Agricultural Produce Marketing Board; M S Yadav, Deputy Director, Uttarakhand Gramya Vikas Samiti (IFAD-REAP) were present at the event.

Through this fest, the endeavour was to raise consciousness about the value of food grains, organic food and why people should prioritise their health and adopt healthy food habits.

Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director, Pacific Group, said, “Watching people’s enthusiasm and excitement at the Organic Farmers Fest was an amazing feeling for all of us. The event saw a footfall of more than 1500 people. Everyone connected with the noble idea of the event, which was to celebrate the backbone of our country- farmers and collectively commemorate the Baisakhi festival.  I thank the organising team that had put a lot of hard work into organising the event and the people who attended, making the fest a spectacular success.”

The endeavour was to raise consciousness about

Floriculture, Organic

Raj Petro Specialities is among the few companies globally to have received this certificate for agricultural spray oils

Raj Petro Specialities Private Limited, a Brenntag Group company, has received National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) certification for agricultural spray oils. The Uttarakhand State Organic Certification Agency (USOCA), a state-run organisation that certifies organic food, awarded the company this prestigious certification.

Three products have received accreditation, i.e., Kyros Agrispray E-3 oil, Kyros Duratek Agrispray oils and Kyros Keleol Agrispray oil. Kyros Agrispray E-3 oil is used for crop care in agriculture, horticulture and floriculture farming. Duratek Agrispray oils are specially formulated for Apples to defend against red mites and Sanjose Scale. Keleol Agrispray oils are specially designed for Banana crops and can effectively manage leaf spot diseases when mixed with an appropriate fungicide. 

Raj Petro Specialities is among the few companies globally to have received this certificate for agricultural spray oils. The company’s vision is to safeguard the environment and offer farmers a value proposition for profitable farming. To further this vision, the company plans to expand its product reach in supplying Agrispray oils to Sikkim, the world’s first organic state, which has certified all of its agriculture as organic. Winning against 51 nominations worldwide, Sikkim won the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation’s (FAO) coveted Future Policy Gold Award.

On receiving NPOP certificate Mehul Nanavati, Managing Director, Raj Petro Specialities, said, “I feel privileged to receive this certification for our products. Agri-spray products at Raj Petro are formulated judiciously conscious of the environmental impact. These products are alternatives to harsher chemicals and pesticides, which can be harmful to the environment and the end consumer. Keleol Spray oils are tested and approved by the National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Tamil Nadu. Duratek Spray oils are tested and approved by Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science and Technology, Srinagar, and Dr Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan.”

He added, “The current scenario has prompted Raj Petro Specialities Pvt Ltd. to continue working on creating innovative environmentally friendly products that are alternatives to conventional pesticides in organic farming.”

Raj Petro Specialities is among the few

Agro chems – Fertilizers

The Government of India is promoting non chemical farming under the names of organic and natural farming through PKVY

The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar in a written reply in Lok Sabha has announced that the Government of India is promoting non chemical farming under the names of organic and natural farming through Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Bharitya Prakratik Krishi Padhati along the river Ganga.          

The PKVY scheme is implemented in all the States across the country. Under this scheme, farmers are provided financial assistance of Rs 31000/ha/3 years for organic inputs such as seeds, bio-fertilisers, bio-pesticides, organic manure, compost/vermi-compost, botanical extracts etc. In addition, support is also provided for group/Farmers Producers Organisation (FPO) formation, training, certification, value addition and marketing of their organic produce. 

Under Namami Gange Programme total Rs 120.49 crore fund (Rs 67.36 cr from RKVY and Rs 34.20 cr from PKVY) has been released for 6181 clusters and 123620 ha area covered.

Further, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is recommending soil test based balanced and integrated nutrient management through conjunctive use of both inorganic and organic sources (manure, bio-fertilisers etc) of plant nutrients for judicious use of chemical fertilisers to improve soil health. In addition, growing leguminous crops and use of Resource Conservation Technologies (RCTs) are also advocated.

The government is promoting Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) which includes soil test based balanced and integrated use of chemical fertilisers in conjunction with organic sources of nutrients like Farm Yard Manure (FYM), city compost, vermi-compost and bio-fertilisers that leads to saving in use of chemical fertilisers.

The Government of India is promoting non

Uncategorized

The Dharti Mitr awards provides a platform for organic farmers across the country to share their innovation and cross populate their learning

Organic India Private Limited (Organic India), in association with Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival has felicitated the top 5 organic farmers with Dharti Mitr Awards while celebrating the grandeur of Indian Cinema and commemorating 75 years of Independence.

The Dharti Mitr awards provides a platform for organic farmers across the country to share their innovation and cross populate their learnings.

The winners of the Dharti Mitr awards 2021, were Nathani Upendrbhai Dayabhai from Gujrat who won the first prize of Rs 5 Lakhs, Malleshappa Gulappa Bisirotti from Karnataka who won the second prize of Rs 3 Lakhs the third prize of Rs 1 Lakhs each went to Devaraddi Agasanakoppa from Karnataka, Rawal Chand and Urmila Ur Rubi Pareek from Rajasthan.

Speaking at the event and expressing gratitude towards the relentless efforts made by the farmers, Subrata Dutta, Group Managing Director, Organic India said, “Our farmers play a very crucial role for the ecology, economy and the society, at large. We conceptualized the Dharti Mitr Awards to celebrate our relationship with individual farmers that is built on interconnectedness – an approach that seeks to boost their confidence and the core objective of the event is to highlight the farmer’s exceptional innovations in the field of organic farming.”

Organic India received over 100+ nominations from farmers across the country, post which a rigorous screening process involving reviewing each entry followed by a farm visit and personal interview were undertaken by the jury.

The Dharti Mitr awards provides a platform