Organic farming in India refers to an agricultural system that emphasizes the use of naturally occurring inputs and sustainable practices, avoiding synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This method is rooted in traditional farming practices and aims to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that promotes biodiversity, soil health, and environmental sustainability.
The core principles of organic farming include maintaining soil fertility through organic matter, crop rotation, and biological pest control methods.
The National Organic Standards Board of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines organic farming as "an ecological production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity".
In India, organic farming has gained traction due to various factors including the adverse effects of conventional agriculture such as declining soil fertility and increasing input costs. Farmers are increasingly adopting organic practices either out of necessity or for economic benefits associated with premium pricing for certified organic products.
In terms of government support, the Indian government has initiated several schemes to promote organic farming. Notable among these are the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North East Regions (MOVCD-NER), which provide financial assistance for forming farmers' clusters, procuring inputs, and establishing post-harvest infrastructure.
As of March 2020, approximately 2.78 million hectares were under certified organic farming in India, representing about 2% of the total net sown area.
Farmers practicing organic agriculture in India can be categorized into three groups: those who have traditionally practiced low-input agriculture; those who have transitioned from conventional methods due to awareness of its negative impacts; and those who pursue commercial organic farming to capitalize on market demand for organic produce. The major crops cultivated under this system include oilseeds, cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, spices, and medicinal plants.
Overall, organic farming in India represents a holistic approach to agriculture that seeks to balance productivity with environmental stewardship while enhancing farmer livelihoods through sustainable practices.