Nauni varsity, HIL join hands to promote natural farming

In a landmark move, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF), Nauni, has signed a historic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Hindustan Insecticides Limited (HIL) to promote natural farming across India. This collaboration marks a pivotal step toward reducing the use of agrochemicals and fostering sustainable agricultural practices in the country.

The MoU facilitates the joint implementation of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) Regional Child Project. Under the Fostering Agrochemical Reduction and Management (FARM) initiative, this project aims to mitigate the adverse effects of agrochemicals by promoting safer and eco-friendly alternatives, including Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and natural farming.

HIL, a public sector entity under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, has traditionally been involved in manufacturing agrochemicals, seeds, and water-soluble fertilizers. This partnership underscores the company’s commitment to transitioning toward sustainable farming practices. The FARM initiative’s ambitious goals include converting 1.5 million hectares of farmland to organic and natural farming methods and protecting 1.5 million individuals from pesticide exposure.

Prof RS Chandel, Vice Chancellor of UHF, emphasised the historic nature of the occasion and the university’s pioneering role in natural farming and agroecology. He expressed confidence that the collaboration with HIL would significantly contribute to reducing chemical usage in agriculture and developing pilot models for nationwide implementation.

UHF, recognised as one of seven Centers of Natural Farming (CoNF) under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), has been at the forefront of agroecological innovation. As part of the European Union-funded ACROPICS consortium, UHF collaborates with 15 members from 13 countries to develop innovative methods for reducing chemical pesticide use. Prof. Chandel highlighted the alignment between the ACROPICS project and the FARM initiative, both of which aim to promote sustainable agricultural practices and reduce reliance on harmful chemicals.

The Global FARM Project, supported by the Global Environment Facility and implemented by UNIDO, UNDP, and the Asian Development Bank, aims to detoxify the agricultural sector in countries like India, Ecuador, Kenya, Laos, the Philippines, Uruguay, and Vietnam. The project focuses on shifting regulatory and financial frameworks to support environmentally sustainable farming systems, restore ecosystems, phase out harmful inputs, lower carbon emissions, and build resilient farming communities.

In India, the Regional FARM Project will concentrate on promoting eco-friendly solutions for hazardous pesticide management, with a special focus on India and the Philippines. The collaboration between UHF and HIL marks a significant milestone in this effort, combining expertise in agroecology with a commitment to sustainable farming practices. This partnership is expected to serve as a model for similar initiatives across the nation, paving the way for a transition to natural farming and a healthier, more sustainable agricultural landscape in India.