Training programme on natural farming held for state officials

A three-day training programme focused on natural farming, part of the ‘Natural Farming Mission’ funded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, was inaugurated on Monday at the agricultural university, Palampur. The session was attended by Vice Chancellor Prof Naveen Kumar, who graced the event as the chief guest.

The program, organised in collaboration with the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad, aims to provide state officials with valuable insights into sustainable farming practices. In his inaugural address, Prof Kumar highlighted the significance of natural farming for enhancing agricultural productivity and safeguarding the environment. He emphasised how this farming method can increase farmers’ incomes while simultaneously preserving soil fertility.

Prof Kumar also noted that India uses considerably fewer pesticides than many other countries, a fact that underscores the potential for natural farming to thrive. He expressed confidence that the training program would motivate farmers across Himachal Pradesh to embrace natural farming techniques.

In addition to the training program, the book “Prakrit Evm Jaivik Kheti Main Paudh Poshan Evm Sanrakshan” (Nutrition and Conservation of Plants in Natural and Organic Farming) was officially released. Written by scientists from the Department of Natural Farming & Organic Agriculture, the book offers cutting-edge knowledge on crop nutrition and conservation methods in chemical-free farming.