NSS 2023-24

Introduction to Organic Farming

Organic farming represents a holistic approach to agriculture that emphasizes

sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the health and well-being of both
consumers and the ecosystem. At its core, organic farming seeks to work with nature
rather than against it, employing practices that minimize environmental impact, promote
biodiversity, and prioritize soil health. Unlike conventional farming, which relies heavily on
synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), organic
farming prohibits the use of these inputs, instead favoring natural methods of pest and
weed control, composting, and crop rotation.

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Objective Of Organic Agriculture

1. Elimination of Synthetic Inputs: Organic farming practices aim to exclude the use of
synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers, relying instead on natural alternatives
for pest control and soil fertility.

2. Promotion of Natural Pest Control: The main focus of organic agriculture is that
instead of relying on chemical pesticides, organic farming employs methods like
companion planting and biological pest control to manage pests and diseases in an
eco-friendly manner.
3. Enhancement of Soil Health: The objective of organic agriculture is to improve soil
fertility and structure through the use of organic inputs such as compost, green
manures, and animal manure, fostering long-term productivity.
4. Sustainable Agriculture Practices: The main organic farming process includes
avoiding synthetic inputs and emphasizing organic alternatives; organic agriculture
contributes to sustainable agricultural practices that are environmentally friendly.
5. Biodiversity Promotion: Organic farming encourages the cultivation of diverse
crops and discourages monoculture, fostering biodiversity to maintain natural
balance and reduce the risk of pests and diseases.
6. Eco-Friendly Crop Rotation: Organic farmers employ crop rotation strategies in
organic agriculture to maintain soil health, prevent nutrient depletion, and reduce
the risk of pests and diseases associated with continuous monoculture. This is one
of the most important process of organic farming.
Respect for Ecological Balance: The most important objective of organic agriculture is to create a harmonious
balance between agriculture and nature, prioritizing practices that support the health of the entire ecosystem.

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HISTORY OF ORGANIC FARMING

Historically, organic farming can be traced back to various traditional agricultural practices
that prioritized soil fertility and biodiversity. However, the modern organic farming
movement emerged in response to the industrialization of agriculture in the mid-20th
century and concerns about the environmental and health impacts of intensive chemical-
based farming practices. Pioneered by visionaries such as Sir Albert Howard, J.I. Rodale,
and Rudolf Steiner, the organic farming movement gained momentum as a counter-
cultural movement advocating for a return to more natural and sustainable farming
methods.

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Types of Organic Farming

Within the realm of organic agriculture practices, two distinct approaches have emerged:
pure organic farming and integrated organic farming. Each method carries its set of
advantages and drawbacks, allowing farmers to tailor their practices based on preferences
and ecological considerations.

PURE ORGANIC FARMING

Pure organic farming refers to a method of agricultural production that strictly adheres to
organic principles and standards, without the use of synthetic inputs or genetically
modified organisms (GMOs). It represents a commitment to sustainability, environmental
stewardship, and the promotion of biodiversity while producing food in a manner that
prioritizes soil health and ecological balance.

Key Characteristics of Pure Organic Farming:

1. No Synthetic Inputs: Pure organic farming prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides,
herbicides, fertilizers, and other agrochemicals. Instead, it relies on natural and organic
alternatives, such as compost, animal manure, green manure, and biological pest control
methods, to nourish crops and manage pests and diseases.

Non-GMO:In pure organic farming, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are notused. This ensures that
crops are grown from natural, non-engineered seeds and preserves the genetic diversity of plant sp

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3) Soil Health: Soil is the foundation of pure organic farming. Practices such as crop
rotation, cover cropping, and composting are employed to build soil organic matter,
improve soil structure, enhance nutrient cycling, and promote beneficial soil
microorganisms. Healthy soil not only supports plant growth but also helps mitigate
erosion, retain moisture, and sequester carbon.

2. Biodiversity: Pure organic farming emphasizes the importance of biodiversity in

agricultural ecosystems. By cultivating a diverse range of crops, creating habitats for
beneficial insects and wildlife, and avoiding monocultures, organic farmers enhance
ecosystem resilience and reduce the risk of pest and disease outbreaks.

3. Animal Welfare: In organic farming systems that include animal husbandry, such as
organic dairy, poultry, and livestock production, animal welfare is a paramount
consideration. Animals are provided with access to outdoor pasture, receive organic feed,
and are raised in conditions that prioritize their physical and psychological well-being.

4. Certification and Regulation: Pure organic farming operations are typically certified by
accredited organic certification bodies to ensure compliance with organic standards and
regulations. These standards vary by country but generally include criteria related to soil
management, pest and weed control, livestock husbandry, and processing and labeling
requirements.

Benefits of Pure Organic Farming:

1. Environmental Sustainability: Pure organic farming reduces the reliance on synthetic

chemicals and minimizes the environmental impact of agriculture by promoting soil health,
conserving water and energy, and protecting biodiversity.

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2. Healthier Food: Organic produce grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers may
contain fewer pesticide residues and higher levels of nutrients and antioxidants, offering
potential health benefits for consumers.

3. Climate Change Mitigation: Practices such as composting, cover cropping, and

agroforestry employed in pure organic farming can help sequester carbon in the soil,
mitigating climate change and enhancing the resilience of agricultural systems to extreme
weather events.

4. Support for Rural Communities: By promoting sustainable farming practices and

prioritizing local food systems, pure organic farming can contribute to the economic
viability of rural communities, support small-scale farmers, and create opportunities for
local employment and entrepreneurship.

In conclusion, pure organic farming represents a holistic and sustainable approach to

agriculture that prioritizes soil health, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship. By
embracing natural methods of production and avoiding synthetic inputs, pure organic
farming offers a path towards a healthier and more resilient food system for present and
future generations.

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Integrated organic farming

Integrated organic farming (IOF) is a sustainable agricultural approach that combines

principles and practices from organic farming with elements of other complementary
farming systems to create a more holistic and diversified farming system. The goal of
integrated organic farming is to maximize resource efficiency, enhance farm productivity,
and promote environmental sustainability while minimizing external inputs and ecological
impacts.

Key Components of Integrated Organic Farming:

Organic Farming Principles:Integrated organic farming adheres to the fundamental

principles of organic agriculture, including the prohibition of synthetic pesticides,
fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It prioritizes soil health,
biodiversity, and ecological balance while promoting natural methods of pest and weed
management, such as crop rotation, composting, and biological control.

Agroecological Practices: Integrated organic farming incorporates agroecological

principles and practices, which emphasize the integration of ecological principles into
agricultural production systems. This includes the promotion of biodiversity, the
enhancement of ecosystem services, and the optimization of ecological processes to
improve farm resilience and sustainability.

Crop-Livestock Integration: Integrated organic farming often integrates crop and

livestock production systems to enhance nutrient cycling, improve soil fertility, and
increase farm productivity. Livestock may graze on cover crops or crop residues,
providing natural fertilizer through their manure and contributing to weed and pest
control through targeted grazing.

Agroforestry: Agroforestry practices, such as alley cropping, windbreaks, and

silvopasture, are commonly integrated into organic farming systems to enhance
biodiversity, improve soil structure, and provide additional sources of income for fa
Trees and shrubs can provide shade, habitat for beneficial insects, and valuable products
such as fruits, nuts, and timber.

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Water Management: Integrated organic farming emphasizes water conservation and

efficient water management practices, such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and
soil moisture management techniques. By reducing water use and enhancing soil water
retention, farmers can mitigate the impacts of drought and improve farm resilience to
climate change.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Integrated organic farming employs a

combinationof cultural, biological, and mechanical methods to manage pests
and diseases while minimizing reliance on synthetic pesticides. This may
include crop diversification, habitat manipulation, use of beneficial insects,
and selective use of natural pest control products.

Benefits of Integrated Organic Farming:

Enhanced Sustainability: Integrated organic farming promotes ecological

sustainability by optimizing resource use, minimizing environmental
impacts, and fostering resilience to climate change and other stressors.

Improved Soil Health: By incorporating organic matter, diversifying crop

rotations, and reducing tillage, integrated organic farming enhances soil
fertility, structure, and microbialactivity, leading to improved soil health and
long-term productivity.

Biodiversity Conservation: Integrated organic farming supports

biodiversity conservation by creating diverse agroecosystems that provide
habitat for beneficialinsects, birds, and other wildlife. This can help suppress
pests, pollinate crops, andimprove overall ecosystem resilience.

Economic Viability: Integrated organic farming can enhance farm

profitability by reducing input costs, increasing yields, and diversifying
income streams through the integration of multiple crops, livestock, and
agroforestry products.

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Healthier Food: Integrated organic farming produces nutritious, chemical-free food

withfewer pesticide residues, offering health benefits for consumers and reducing risks
associated with conventional agricultural practices.

In conclusion, integrated organic farming represents a multifaceted approach to

agriculture that combines the principles and practices of organic farming with other
sustainable farming systems to create resilient, productive, and environmentally
friendly farming systems. By integrating diverse elements such as crop-livestock
integration, agroforestry, and water management, farmers can optimize resource use,
enhance biodiversity, and promote long-term sustainability while meeting the
challengesofmodernagriculture.

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Organic Farming Methods And Practices In India

The methodology of organic farming is like going back to nature’s way of growing food.
Instead of using chemicals, it uses natural methods to keep the soil and plants healthy.
Farmers use organic agriculture methods to enrich the soil with nutrient-rich compost.
Let’s take a look at the methods for organic agriculture farming and practices in India.

Crop Rotation

In India, farmers practice crop rotation in organic farming by planting different crops in the
same field at different times. This helps maintain soil fertility, reduces the risk of pests and
diseases, and ensures sustainable agriculture.

Green Manures

The second most organic method of farming includes green manures. Farmers use green
manures, which are special crops planted to add nutrients to the soil. These crops improve
soil fertility naturally, providing essential elements for the healthy growth of subsequent
crops.

Compost

The third organic method of farming includes composting is a common practice where
farmers mix kitchen scraps, plant leftovers, and other organic matter to create natural
fertilizer. This homemade compost enriches the soil, promoting robust and nutrient-rich
plant growth.

Pest Management
In organic farming, pest management involves using beneficial insects or natural methods
to control harmful pests. This eliminates the need for chemical pesticides, promoting a
healthier environment.

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Weed Management

Weed management is one of the crucial techniques of organic farming for maintaining a
healthy crop. Farmers in India adopt practices to keep unwanted plants in check, ensuring
that crops receive sufficient nutrients and water without competition. Weed management
is one of the important organic method of farming.

Soil Management

Indian farmers focus on soil management to nurture the ground where crops grow. By
adopting organic farming methods, they ensure the soil remains fertile, contributing to
sustainable and fruitful harvests.

Crop Diversity

A contemporary agricultural approach known as ‘Polyculture’ has gained popularity

recently. This polyculture method involves cultivating a diverse range of crops
concurrently, addressing the growing global demand for food items. In India, organic
farmers emphasize crop diversity by growing various types of crops together. This is one of
the best polyculture techniques of organic farming, which not only supports a balanced
ecosystem but also reduces the vulnerability of crops to specific pests and diseases.

Vermiculture

Vermiculture is an important part of the organic method of farming involves using worms
to create natural fertilizer. In India, farmers utilize worms to break down organic matter,
producing nutrient-rich soil that enhances the overall health of the crops.

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Environmental Benefits

1. Soil Health Improvement:

• Organic farming practices, such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and the use of
organic fertilizers like compost and manure, contribute to improved soil health.
• These practices help increase soil organic matter, enhance soil structure, and
improve soil fertility by providing essential nutrients to plants in a slow-release
form.
• Healthy soils have better water retention capacity, reduced erosion, and increased
microbial activity, fostering a thriving ecosystem underground that supports plant
growth and overall ecosystem health.

2. Biodiversity Conservation:
• Organic farming methods prioritize biodiversity conservation by creating diverse
agroecosystems that mimic natural ecosystems.
• Crop diversity, mixed cropping, and the inclusion of hedgerows, windbreaks, and
other landscape features provide habitats for a wide range of plant species,
beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife.
• Increased biodiversity contributes to ecosystem resilience, as diverse ecosystems
are better able to withstand pests, diseases, and environmental stresses.
• Preservation of native flora and fauna helps maintain ecosystem services such as
pollination, pest control, and nutrient cycling, which are essential for agricultural
productivity.

3. Reduced Environmental Pollution:

• Organic farming minimizes the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and
fertilizers, which can contaminate soil, water, and air.
• By avoiding chemical inputs, organic farming reduces the risk of pesticide residues
in food and water sources, as well as the development of pesticide-resistant pests
and weeds.
• Organic farming also reduces the potential for nutrient runoff and soil erosion,
which can lead to water pollution and eutrophication of aquatic ecosystems.

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• By promoting natural pest control methods and enhancing soil health, organic
farming contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment for both humans and
wildlife.

4. Carbon Sequestration and Climate Change Mitigation:

• Organic farming practices such as cover cropping, crop rotation, reduced tillage,
and organic soil amendments increase the amount of carbon stored in the soil, a
process known as carbon sequestration.
• Healthy soils rich in organic matter act as carbon sinks, drawing down atmospheric
carbon dioxide and storing it in stable forms, such as soil organic matter.
• By sequestering carbon in the soil, organic farming helps mitigate climate change
by reducing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
• Additionally, organic farming practices often require less energy-intensive inputs
and promote agroecological resilience, further reducing the carbon footprint of
agricultural production.

In summary, organic farming offers a suite of environmental benefits, including improved

soil health, biodiversity conservation, reduced environmental pollution, and carbon
sequestration and climate change mitigation. By adopting organic farming practices,
farmers can contribute to the preservation of natural resources, the protection of
ecosystem services, and the promotion of a more sustainable and resilient agricultural
system.

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Economic Aspects

1. Market Trends and Demand for Organic Products:

• The market for organic products has experienced significant growth in recent
years, driven by increasing consumer demand for healthier, environmentally
sustainable, and ethically produced food.

• Consumers are increasingly seeking out organic products due to concerns about
pesticide residues, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and the
environmental and health impacts of conventional agriculture.

• Market trends show that organic products command premium prices compared to
conventional counterparts, reflecting consumers' willingness to pay for perceived
quality, safety, and sustainability.

• The demand for organic products extends beyond fresh produce to include a wide
range of food and beverage categories, including dairy, meat, grains, and
processed foods, as well as non-food items like personal care products and
textiles.

2. Economic Viability of Organic Farming:

• While organic farming can offer numerous environmental and health benefits, its
economic viability can vary depending on factors such as farm size, location, crop
selection, market access, and management practices.

• Organic farming often requires higher initial investments in soil-building

practices, organic inputs, and certification fees compared to conventional farming.

• However, organic farmers may benefit from lower input costs over time, reduced
exposure to volatile input prices, and premium prices for organic products in the
marketplace.

• Successful organic farmers often adopt diversified farming systems, value-added

products, direct marketing channels, and cost-effective organic management
practices to improve profitability and economic resilience.

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3. Government Subsidies and Incentives:

• Many governments offer subsidies, grants, and financial incentives to support

organic farming and encourage the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.

• These subsidies may include financial assistance for organic certification, organic
transition, research and development, marketing and promotion, infrastructure
development, and conservation programs.

• Government policies and programs vary by country and region, with some
jurisdictions providing more extensive support for organic agriculture than others.

• Subsidies and incentives can play a crucial role in promoting the expansion of
organic farming, particularly in regions where organic agriculture is still emerging
or facing economic challenges.

4. Challenges in Marketing Organic Products:

• Despite the growing demand for organic products, organic farmers often face
challenges in marketing and distribution.

• Access to markets, distribution networks, and retail outlets can be limited,

especially for small-scale and niche producers.

• Organic certification requirements and compliance costs can pose barriers to entry
for some farmers, particularly those in developing countries or transitioning from
conventional to organic farming.

• Competition from conventional producers, price fluctuations, and market saturation

in some product categories can also impact the profitability and marketability of
organic products.

• Consumer education and awareness, labeling and certification transparency, and

trust in organic brands are important factors in overcoming marketing challenges
and building consumer confidence in organic products.

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In conclusion, the economic aspects of organic farming encompass market trends and
demand for organic products, the economic viability of organic farming, government
subsidies and incentives, and challenges in marketing organic products. While organic
farming offers opportunities for premium prices, environmental stewardship, and
sustainable livelihoods, it also presents challenges related to market access, profitability,
and regulatory compliance. By addressing these economic factors and supporting organic
farmers with appropriate policies, programs, and market infrastructure, governments,
industry stakeholders, and consumers can promote the continued growth and success of
organic agriculture.

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Social Impacts:

1. Contribution to Rural Livelihoods:

• Organic farming can contribute significantly to rural livelihoods by creating

employment opportunities within rural communities. Unlike conventional farming
which often relies heavily on mechanization and chemical inputs, organic farming
typically requires more labor-intensive practices such as manual weeding and
composting. This can lead to increased demand for local labor, providing jobs for
people in rural areas.

• Additionally, organic farming often involves smaller-scale operations, which can

be more feasible for smallholders and family farms. This allows rural residents to
engage in farming practices that are more sustainable and environmentally
friendly while generating income for their families.

2. Community Engagement and Empowerment:

• Organic farming encourages community engagement by promoting practices

such as crop rotation, agroforestry, and the use of locally sourced inputs. These
practices often require knowledge sharing and collaboration among farmers
within a community, fostering a sense of belonging and cooperation.

• Furthermore, organic farming emphasizes the importance of preserving

biodiversity and natural ecosystems. This can lead to the establishment of
community initiatives such as seed banks, organic markets, and conservation
projects, which empower communities to take ownership of their agricultural
practices and natural resources.

3. Access to Healthy Food Options:

• Organic farming prioritizes the use of natural inputs and sustainable farming
practices, resulting in the production of food that is free from synthetic pesticides,
herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This leads to the
production of healthier and more nutritious food options.

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• By promoting organic farming, communities gain access to a wider variety of

fresh, locally produced fruits, vegetables, grains, and animal products. This can
have significant health benefits, particularly in areas where access to nutritious
food is limited, thereby reducing the prevalence of diet-related diseases such as
obesity and diabetes.

4. Social Equity and Inclusivity in Organic Farming:

• Organic farming advocates for principles such as fairness, transparency, and

social justice throughout the food production process. This includes fair treatment
and compensation for farmers and workers, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or
socio-economic status.

• Organic farming also promotes inclusivity by encouraging the participation of

marginalized groups such as indigenous communities, women farmers, and
smallholders. By providing equal access to resources, training, and markets,
organic farming helps to level the playing field and create opportunities for all
members of society to participate in sustainable agriculture.

• Furthermore, organic farming practices often prioritize the needs of local

communities and ecosystems over profit maximization, fostering a more
equitable distribution of resources and benefits within society.

Overall, organic farming can have a range of positive social impacts, from supporting rural
livelihoods and empowering communities to promoting access to healthy food options and
advancing social equity and inclusivity in agriculture.

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SUCCESS STORIES

STORY 1:-

Mr. Avtar Singh's venture into organic cultivation of high-curcumin turmeric variety
"Rajender Sonia" on his 3.5-acre land has showcased several notable aspects:

1. Innovative Farming Practices : Avtar Singh's adoption of organic cultivation techniques,

including the use of vermicompost, green manure, farmyard manure (FYM), and natural
pest control methods like neem oil and pheromone traps, demonstrates his commitment
to sustainable agriculture. Additionally, employing drip and sprinkler irrigation systems
along with mulching shows his attention to water conservation and soil health.

2. Value Addition and Processing : Avtar Singh's decision to process and add value to his
turmeric harvest through his small-scale processing plant is commendable. By doing so,
he not only increases the shelf life of his produce but also taps into higher-value markets
for turmeric powder and pickle, thereby boosting his income.

3. Economic Viability : Avtar Singh's innovative practices have not only resulted in a higher
yield of turmeric with elevated curcumin content but also enabled him to fetch double the
market price for his processed turmeric products. His total income of Rs. 3 lakhs after
value addition reflects the economic viability of his venture.

4. Direct Marketing and Customer Engagement: Avtar Singh's approach of direct

marketing and engaging with over 350 consumer families indicates his efforts to establish
a loyal customer base. Furthermore, his plans to leverage social media and other ICT tools
for more effective marketing signify his readiness to adapt to modern business practices
and expand his customer network.

5. Future Expansion: Avtar Singh's vision to expand his venture by incorporating integrated
farming, particularly focusing on poultry and beekeeping, demonstrates his holistic
approach to agriculture. Integrating diverse agricultural activities can enhance soil fertility,
pest management, and overall farm productivity, thereby creating additional income
streams and strengthening the resilience of his farming enterprise.

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STORY – 2

Mr. Didar Singh's innovative techniques for organic farming demonstrate a practical
approach to pest control and crop growth enhancement. Let's break down his methods
and discuss their significance, along with potential challenges and lessons learned:

1. Use of Gaumutra (Cow Urine) for Pest Control:

Mr. Didar Singh stores Gaumutra from his Sahiwal cows and uses it for seed treatment
and as an insecticide spray to control aphids, jassids, and caterpillars attacking different
crops.

Significance: Gaumutra contains natural compounds that act as repellents or deterrents

against pests, providing an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides. This method
aligns with organic farming principles by utilizing a renewable resource and reducing
chemical inputs.

Challenges and Lessons Learned: Challenges may include sourcing and storing Gaumutra
effectively, as well as achieving consistent results across different crops and pest
pressures. Mr. Didar Singh likely learned through experimentation and observation to
optimize the timing and application rates of Gaumutra for effective pest control.

2. Homemade Urea from Cow Dung Cakes:

Mr. Didar Singh prepares a "Homemade Urea" solution by mixing one-year-old cow
dung cakes with water and spraying it on crops to promote faster growth.

Significance: Cow dung contains nutrients that serve as natural fertilizers, contributing to
soil fertility and crop productivity. Homemade Urea offers a cost-effective alternative to
synthetic fertilizers while harnessing the benefits of organic matter.

Challenges and Lessons Learned: Ensuring proper decomposition and nutrient availability
in the Homemade Urea solution may require careful management of the dung cakes' age,
moisture content, and application method. Mr. Didar Singh likely adjusted his approach
based on crop response and soil nutrient levels.

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3. Natural Extract for Pest Control:

Mr. Didar Singh prepares an extract from neem, milkweed, and dhatura leaves, which he
uses as a spray to control harmful cauliflower caterpillars.

Significance: Neem, milkweed, and dhatura contain bioactive compounds with

insecticidal properties, making them effective natural alternatives to chemical pesticides.
Using plant extracts aligns with organic farming principles and promotes biodiversity in
agricultural ecosystems.

Challenges and Lessons Learned: Extract preparation and application methods may
require careful attention to ingredient proportions, extraction techniques, and safety
considerations. Mr. Didar Singh likely experimented with different plant combinations and
concentrations to optimize pest control efficacy while minimizing potential negative
effects on non-target organisms.

4. Use of Sour Lassi as a Fungicide:

Mr. Didar Singh mixes sour lassi with water and sprays it on pulses to control blight
disease.

Significance: Sour lassi, a fermented dairy product, contains beneficial microorganisms

that may suppress fungal pathogens responsible for blight disease. This approach
harnesses the natural antimicrobial properties of lactic acid bacteria, offering a non-toxic
method for disease management.

Challenges and Lessons Learned: Maintaining lassi quality, consistency, and application
coverage may pose challenges, particularly in terms of storage conditions and
fermentation control. Mr. Didar Singh likely refined his technique through observation of
disease incidence and crop response, adjusting application rates and timing accordingly.

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Organic Certification Process:

• The organic certification process involves several steps to ensure that agricultural
products meet specific standards for organic production. In India, organic
certification is typically carried out by accredited certification bodies recognized by
the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority
(APEDA) and the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP).

• Farmers interested in obtaining

organic certification must
undergo a transition period
during which they cease using
synthetic chemicals and adopt
organic farming practices.
During this period, they maintain
detailed records of inputs, practices, and harvests.

• Certification involves on-site inspections by certification bodies to verify compliance

with organic standards. This includes assessing soil health, crop management
practices, record-keeping systems, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Once certified, farmers are allowed to label and market their products as organic,
which typically commands premium prices in domestic and international markets.

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Regulatory Standards and Agencies:

• In India, organic farming is regulated by the National Programme for Organic

Production (NPOP), which establishes standards and guidelines for organic
production, certification, and labeling.
• The NPOP is overseen by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and implemented
by the APEDA. APEDA is responsible for accrediting certification bodies, monitoring
compliance with organic standards, and promoting organic exports.

• Additionally, India's Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) regulates organic
food labeling and ensures that organic products meet food safety requirements.

Challenges and Limitations in Certification in India:

• Limited Awareness and Educatio: nMany farmers lack awareness and
understanding of organic farming practices and certification requirements.This
can hinder adoption and compliance with organic standards.
• Cost and Access: Obtaining organic certification can be expensive,
particularly for smallholder farmers with limited financial resources.
Certification fees, inspection costs, and expenses associated with
transitioning to organic farming practices can pose significant barriers.
• Complexity and Bureaucracy: The certification process can be complex and
bureaucratic, especially for small-scale farmers. Meeting documentation
requirements, navigating certification procedures, and coordinating with multiple
agencies can be challenging.
• Lack of Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure for organic certification, including a
shortage of trained inspectors and laboratories for testing organicproducts, can
undermine the credibility and effectiveness of certification systems.
• Market Access: Despite growing demand for organic products, accessing premium
markets for organic produce can be difficult for Indian farmers dueto competition,
quality standards, and logistical challenges in transportationand distribution.

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The green path

Organic Farming

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Organic Farming
Organic farming is a system of agricultural production based on the use of natural processes
and resources. No chemicals or genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are used — in order
to obtain healthier and more nutritious food while protecting soil fertility, preventing the
spread of pests and respecting the environment.

Need of Organic Farming

1. Imbalance in use of fertilizers
2. Excessive use of pesticides
3. Environmental Pollution by
Conventional Agricultural
Methods
4. Rapid increase in diseases
due to chemical residues in food
5. Loss of Fertile soil and
expanding barren lands

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Goals of Organic farming

History of Organic Farming

Sir Albert Howard (1873-1947)

British botanist

“The Health of Soil, Plant, Animal

and Man is one and indivisible”

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Types of Organic Farming

Integrated Farming

It includes use of organic

manures and bio-
pesticides with complete It involves Integrated Nutrient
avoidance of inorganic Management (INM)
and Integrated Pest Management
chemicals and pesticides. (IPM).

Integrated Farming Systems

In this type, local resources are

effectively recycled by
involving other components
such as poultry, fish pond,
mushroom, goat rearing etc.

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Principles of Organic Farming

Components of Organic Farming

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Benefits
1. I ncrease long-term fertility of the soil.
2. I t helps in maintaining environment health by reducing the level of pollution.
3. I t reduces human and animal health hazards by reducing the level of residues in the
product.
4. I t helps in keeping agricultural production at a higher level and makes it sustainable.
5. I t reduces the cost of agricultural production and also improves the soil health.
6. I t ensures optimum utilization of natural resources for short-term benefit and helps in
conserving them for future generation.
7. I t not only saves energy for both animal and machine, but also reduces risk of crop
f ailure.

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Constraints
1. Small land holding
2. Lower yield in initial years
3. Poor infrastructure facilities
4. Lack of technology knowledge
5. Difficulty in procurement and transportation of
organic fertilizers
6. Complicated organic certification process and
high fees cost
7. Higher human population of India which puts
more burden on Indian farms and farmers

Govt. Initiatives
 PKVY – Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
 RKVY – Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
 NFSM – National Food Security Mission
 NFS – Natural Farming Scheme
 ZBNF – Zero Budget Natural Farming

Dept:CSE pg. 30
NSS 2023-24

Conclusions and reflections

Dept:CSE pg. 31
NSS 2023-24

Dept:CSE pg. 32