Agri varsity holds workshop on natural farming

Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, organised a one-day workshop on Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati through its Department of Organic Agriculture and Natural Farming.The workshop witnessed the participation of 29 officers and farmers from Vijhri and Nadaun blocks of Hamirpur district.

On the occasion, Prof Naveen Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, said natural farming was the need of the hour to restore soil health, conserve biodiversity and ensure safe food for all. He added the university was committed to strengthening natural and organic farming systems through teaching, research and extension, so that farmers could achieve profitability without harming the environment.

The workshop was chaired by Dr Janardan Singh, head, Department of Organic and Natural Farming. He spoke on the ill effects of excessive use of chemicals on soil, water, air and human health, and explained how natural farming could provide a sustainable alternative.

Dr Shashi Pal Attri, Deputy Director, Agriculture Department, Hamirpur, informed the participants about government schemes supporting natural farming and encouraged the attendees to avail benefits. Nitin Kumar Sharma, Project Director, ATMA, Hamirpur, motivated participants to adopt natural farming practices and highlighted the scientific utilisation of resources.