digantsharma Organic farming is gaining significant momentum across India, as more farmers transition away from chemical-intensive practices in favor of sustainable, eco-friendly methods. With rising consumer demand for organic produce and increasing awareness about soil health and environmental impact, organic farming is no longer just a niche—it’s becoming a movement.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, India now has over 4.4 million hectares of land under organic cultivation, making it one of the largest organic producers in terms of the number of farmers. States like Sikkim (India’s first fully organic state), Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan are leading the way in promoting organic agriculture through state-sponsored programs, subsidies, and awareness drives.
Farmers are increasingly recognizing the long-term benefits of organic farming. Unlike conventional methods that rely heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, organic farming uses natural inputs such as compost, green manure, bio-fertilizers, neem-based pesticides, and crop rotation. These practices not only enhance soil fertility but also improve the nutritional quality of the produce.
Prakash Verma, an organic farmer from Madhya Pradesh, shared his experience: “Initially, the shift was challenging. Yields were lower in the first two years, but over time, my soil has become healthier and more productive. Now, I get better prices at the local market, and my produce is in demand.”
Government schemes such as the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) are encouraging the adoption of organic methods. These programs offer financial support, training, and market linkages to farmers looking to make the switch.
Organic products like millets, turmeric, ginger, pulses, and leafy vegetables are seeing higher demand in both domestic and international markets. Export potential is rising, with Indian organic products reaching markets in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.
However, challenges remain. Certification costs, lack of easy market access, and the time it takes to convert conventional land into certified organic land (typically 2–3 years) can discourage small farmers. Experts suggest that building stronger cooperatives, improving digital traceability, and expanding local organic markets could help overcome these barriers.
Dr. Anita Rawat, an agronomist specializing in sustainable agriculture, notes, “The future of farming is organic. It promotes biodiversity, conserves water, and ensures food safety. What we need now is more robust infrastructure and policies that make organic farming viable for all scales of farmers.”
Looking ahead, the integration of technology, such as organic input calculators, satellite monitoring, and farm-to-market digital platforms, will likely accelerate the organic farming revolution. With the right support, India is well-positioned to become a global leader in organic agriculture.
