In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, the Karnataka government will focus on natural farming, growing crops without the use of chemical fertilizers and insecticides on 4,000 acres, 1,000 acres of which will be in Krishi Vigyan Kendras affiliated with four universities of agriculture sciences across the state.
The decision was made in response to the rising demand for chemical-free vegetables and fruits.
Agriculture Universities will be used to practice chemical-free farming
Beginning this pre-monsoon season, the government will conduct research on chemical-free farming in collaboration with four agriculture institutions located in Bengaluru, Dharwad, Raichur, and Shivamogga. Farmers will be taught natural agricultural practices once the yield is high.
According to Agriculture Minister BC Patil, these universities have large tracts of land attached to them, and natural farming would be adopted on 1,000 acres on each campus. He went on to say that the focus will be on crops in specific regions.
Farmers in the state, according to Patil, raise a variety of crops, including paddy, ragi, pulses, jowar, areca nut, fruits, and vegetables. Depending on the climate and water availability, each location develops various crops.
"Instead of chemical-based fertilisers and pesticides, scientists will employ green leaves, neem, cow dung, and other naturally available substances to cultivate crops." We will begin cultivation at these colleges in April and May, which is the pre-monsoon season.
Natural Farming: The cheaper alternative for farmers
Natural farming is cheaper for farmers, according to experts, because they don't have to spend more money on chemical-based items. "Indians practiced natural farming for thousands of years with the support of age-old wisdom," said Srinivas Reddy, former director, and scientific officer of the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC).
Former Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) director and scientific officer Srinivas Reddy stated, "Chemical farming has eliminated the flora and fauna, including insects and worms, that help maintain healthy soil. Natural farming may restore soil fertility and enhance productivity. The carbon concentration has decreased dramatically. It's either now or never."
Reddy believes that including agriculture universities in the study is a smart idea. "The biggest problem will be getting academic research to farmers. Farmers will only accept it if the results are better, "He continued.
