National Mission on Natural Farming
National Mission on Natural Farming: A Golden Opportunity for Farmers
India has always been an agriculture-based country. However, the increasing use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in modern farming has harmed soil, water, and human health. To solve this problem, the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) has been launched. This scheme encourages farmers to adopt natural farming, reduce costs, and earn better income.
In this blog, we will understand the mission in detail — its objectives, benefits, eligibility, application process, required documents, and how it can change the future of Indian farmers.
What is the National Mission on Natural Farming?
The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) is a flagship initiative of the Government of India. The aim is to attract farmers towards natural farming, provide training, and make this practice popular across the country.
Key Objectives of the Scheme
- Free farmers from dependency on costly chemical inputs.
- Reduce cost of farming and increase farmers’ income.
- Promote indigenous cow-based and local resource-based farming models.
- Collect and validate natural farming practices already being followed in different regions.
- Create awareness, provide training, and conduct demonstrations.
- Develop standards, certification, and branding of natural farming products for domestic and international markets.
Benefits of Natural Farming for Farmers
Farmers practicing natural farming enjoy multiple advantages:
1. Better Yields
Reports show equal or sometimes higher yields compared to conventional farming.
2. Nutritious and Healthy Food
Since no chemical fertilizers or pesticides are used, crops are safe and rich in nutrients.
3. Improved Soil Health
Natural farming improves soil biology and biodiversity while saving water.
4. Higher Net Income
Low input costs, reduced risks, and multiple cropping options help increase farmers’ earnings.
5. Water Conservation
By covering the soil and using diverse crops, natural farming reduces water loss and supports the “more crop per drop” approach.
Eligibility for the Scheme
- The scheme is open to all farmers across India.
- No educational qualification is required.
- Small, marginal, medium, and large farmers can all apply.
Application Process
How to Apply Offline
Step 01: Interested farmers should contact their respective Zila Parishad (District Council).
Step 02: The Zila Parishad officer will submit the farmer’s details and project plan to the State Agriculture Department.
Step 03: The State Agriculture Department will prepare the State Annual Action Plan.
Step 04: After approval, financial assistance will be released to the farmers.
Required Documents
To avail benefits under this mission, farmers need to submit:
- Aadhaar card
- Land ownership documents
- Caste certificate (for SC/ST only)
- Bank account details
- Passport-size photographs
⚠️ Note: The required documents may vary slightly from state to state.
Market for Natural Farming Products
- The government is working on certification and branding for natural farming products.
- This will help farmers sell their produce in domestic and international markets.
- Farmers will also get opportunities for exports in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the benefits of the National Mission on Natural Farming?
It reduces input costs, improves soil health, ensures safe produce, and increases farmers’ income.
2. Do I need an educational qualification to apply?
No, anyone can apply regardless of education.
3. Where should I apply for the scheme?
Farmers should contact their Zila Parishad office to start the process.
4. Can small farmers also benefit?
Yes, the scheme is open to all farmers, including small and marginal ones.
5. How much financial support is provided?
The financial assistance amount is decided by the state government and agriculture department.
6. How much yield can natural farming give?
It gives yields similar to or even higher than conventional farming in many cases.
7. Are natural farming crops healthier?
Yes, they are chemical-free, safe, and rich in nutrition.
8. Will I get training under this scheme?
Yes, training and capacity-building programs are included.
9. Why is the indigenous cow important in natural farming?
Cow dung and cow urine are essential inputs for making natural fertilizers and pesticides.
10. Can farmers export their products under this scheme?
Yes, certification and branding initiatives will help farmers access export markets.
Conclusion
The National Mission on Natural Farming is a golden opportunity for Indian farmers. It not only reduces costs but also ensures healthy crops, fertile soil, and safe water. Most importantly, it makes farming profitable and sustainable.
👉 Dear farmers, the time has come to adopt natural farming. With fewer expenses and higher earnings, you can secure your family’s future and inspire your community.
👉 For more information related to natural farming and farmers, make sure to visit Subsistence Farming.