Organic Farming in India has a long history and has been practiced since ancient times. This farming approach focuses on maintaining the soil’s health and vitality by utilizing organic waste materials (such as crop residues, animal manure, and farm by-products) and other natural substances, in addition to beneficial microorganisms (biofertilizers) that help release essential nutrients to crops.

The ultimate goal is to achieve sustainable agricultural production in an environmentally friendly and pollution-free setting.

Need for Organic Farming in India

As the population continues to grow, it is imperative for us to not only stabilize agricultural production but also to enhance it sustainably. Scientists have realized that the “Green Revolution” which uses high levels of inputs, has reached its limit and is now producing fewer benefits. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a natural balance at all costs for the preservation of life and property. The most suitable option in the current era would be to reduce reliance on agrochemicals derived from fossil fuels, which are non-renewable and becoming scarce. This shift may also have significant financial implications on our foreign exchange reserves in the future.

Types of Organic Farming In India

There are two types of organic farming. Below, you can find information about the types of organic farming in India.

(a) Pure organic farming – Pure organic farming involves the avoidance of all unnatural chemicals. In this method, fertilizers and pesticides are obtained from natural sources. This is considered the purest form of organic farming and is also known for its high productivity.

(b) Integrated organic farming – Integrated organic farming includes integrated nutrient management and integrated pest management.

Scope of Organic Farming in India

The potential for organic farming in India is vast, as the demand for organic food continues to rise within the domestic market. The growth of India’s domestic markets is essential for the success of the organic movement. Organic farming not only addresses concerns about quality and sustainability, but also offers the promise of a debt-free future. With increasing awareness about the safety and quality of food, as well as the long-term sustainability of the system, organic farming is proving to be equally productive. Additionally, organic farming is a sustainable and environmentally beneficial production strategy that particularly benefits small-scale farmers. It is well-suited for small farmers in developing countries like India, and evidence suggests that organic agriculture contributes to poverty reduction and food security through various factors.

Outlook of Organic Farming

Despite the stringent quality certification system of commercial organic agriculture, it has experienced significant growth, averaging 45% to 55% annually over the past decade. The popularity of organic cuisine is on the rise, particularly in India, where the domestic market is showing promising potential for further expansion. India’s domestic market growth is crucial for the success of the organic movement, as the country ranks ninth globally in terms of organic land. With over 600,000 organic farmers, India produces a wide variety of organically cultivated crops, including rice, wheat, lentils, spices, tea, coffee, herbal and medicinal plants, cotton, oil seeds, as well as a diverse range of fruits, dry fruits, and vegetables. The states with the highest certified organic farming acreage in India are Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Karnataka. In 2022-23, India produced 1.7 million metric tonnes of these crops, with exports totaling over 4.6 lakh metric tonnes to the United States, Canada, the European Union, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and Israel.

Health Benefits of Organic Food

Organic produce is cultivated without the use of synthetic chemicals and is free from genetically modified organisms. This category includes fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and meat. In order to be labeled as organic, farms, whether small or large, must adhere to strict United States Department of Agriculture regulations.

Organic farming practices are geared towards reducing pollution, providing a safe environment for farm animals, and promoting a self-sustaining resource cycle on the farm, as stated by the Mayo Clinic.

Organic food is produced without the use of synthetic chemicals and is free from genetically modified organisms. This category encompasses fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and meat. In order to be labeled as organic, farms, whether small or large, must adhere to strict United States Department of Agriculture regulations.

Organic farming practices are aimed at reducing pollution, providing a safe environment for farm animals, and promoting a self-sustaining resource cycle on the farm, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Drawbacks of organic farming

1. Organic produce comes with a higher price tag due to lower yields compared to conventional farming methods.
2. Increased production costs stem from the need for more labor on organic farms.
3. The marketing and distribution of organic food is hindered by smaller quantities produced.
4. Organic farmers must possess in-depth knowledge of localized soil systems, meteorology, ecology, and other factors influencing crop growth to effectively protect their crops during critical stages.
5. Organic crops are more susceptible to diseases, which can lead to decreased production.
6. Organic farms face rigorous certification processes.