NITI Aayog Member Advocates for Natural Farming as Key Solution to Tackle Climate Change

According to Agriculture Economist Ramesh Chand, a member of the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog), promoting natural farming methods can not just address the issue of climate change, but can also enhance the standard of agricultural output.

Speaking at the 5th convocation of Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University in West Godavari district, Chand emphasized the importance of promoting natural farming among scientists and students.

In his address, Governor S. Abdul Nazeer, who presided over the convocation, highlighted the increasing significance of horticultural crops in ensuring nutritional security. He pointed out that India is already emerging as the food basket of the world, with horticultural production surpassing agricultural production.

The total horticulture production in the country is expected to reach 320 billion tonnes by 2023, providing employment to 14% of the workforce in the agriculture sector. Furthermore, 42% of this workforce comprises women.

Justice Abdul Nazeer also praised Andhra Pradesh for its impressive growth in horticulture production and research, which has helped the state emerge as one of the major horticulture hubs in the country. He commended Dr. Y.S.R. Agricultural University for its efforts in promoting the use of drone and robotic technologies in horticulture.

At the convocation, Prof. Ramesh Chand and Governor S. Abdul Nazeer presented Ph.D. awards and gold medals to the university's scientists and students. University Vice-Chancellor T. Janakiram, Registrar B. Srinivas, and professors also attended the event.

The adoption of natural farming practices is crucial in the fight against climate change. It involves reducing the use of chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers, which can cause environmental damage and harm human health. Instead, natural farming focuses on maintaining soil fertility through the use of natural methods such as crop rotation, composting, and intercropping.

Moreover, natural farming can improve the quality of agricultural production by preserving the natural nutrients and flavor of crops. This can lead to increased demand for organic produce, which can be beneficial for farmers in terms of higher profits and better market prices.