Governor of Gujarat, Acharya Devarat, has called for a transformative shift towards natural farming, highlighting its role in promoting sustainable agriculture. Speaking at the inauguration of a two-day national workshop on natural farming, organized by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare at Gujarat Natural Farming Science University, Halol, the Governor highlighted how natural farming fosters soil health, rejuvenates ecosystems, reduces farmers’ reliance on external markets, and ensures climate resilience. He further underscored the importance of safe and healthy food for future generations, making natural farming a cornerstone of agricultural sustainability.
The workshop, presided over by Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, highlighted the Government commitment to advancing natural farming practices under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). Approved in 2025, this initiative draws inspiration from farmers who have practiced sustainable methods for decades.
Dr. Chaturvedi explained that the NMNF aims to integrate scientific methods with traditional knowledge, creating a collaborative platform where farmers, scientists, and institutions work together to enhance natural farming techniques. Through the NMNF, capacity building and training programs are being implemented nationwide to expand the reach of these eco-friendly practices.
This workshop marked the beginning of various training initiatives under the NMNF program. With a mission to rejuvenate soil, water, and ecosystems, the NMNF aims to convert 750,000 hectares to natural farming and train 1.875 million farmers by establishing 10,000 bio-input resource centers across 15,000 clusters. The goal is to revolutionize Indian agriculture, promoting sustainability and prosperity for farmers while ensuring a healthier environment and food system.
The event saw participation from 90 resource persons representing seven Centres of Natural Farming (CoNFs) across several states, including Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Tamil Nadu. Local farmers, students, and professors from Gujarat Natural Farming Science University also attended, sharing their insights and experiences.
Notable attendees included Dr. Anju Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary of Agriculture for the Government of Gujarat; Franklin L. Khobung, Joint Secretary; and Rachna Kumar, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
