In an era when chemical fertilizers and pesticides dominate agriculture, natural farming is emerging as a cost-effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly alternative. This method encourages harmony with nature rather than working against it. Instead of relying on external chemical inputs, natural farming utilizes local resources such as cow dung, cow urine, dry leaves, and organic waste. As a result, it maintains soil fertility and significantly reduces the cost of cultivation.
Deputy Director of Agriculture Dr. S.K. Nigam shared the inspiring example of Rakesh Paharia, a farmer from Khitola Bazar in the Sihora block. For the past 3–4 years, Mr. Paharia has been practicing natural farming on 3 out of his total 4 acres of land. This shift has not only improved soil health but also reduced input costs by eliminating chemical usage.
According to Dr. Nigam, Mr. Paharia cultivates seasonal vegetables, flowers, fruits, and crops like paddy, moong, and urad through natural methods. His efforts have resulted in an annual additional income of ₹3–4 lakh, showcasing the profitability of this farming model.
To support his farming, Mr. Paharia has established a Hariom Gaushala over half an acre, housing around 40–50 cows and bulls. The cow dung and urine from this gaushala are used to prepare various organic fertilizers and pesticides. Recently, organic farming expert Mr. Tarachandra Belji visited the farm and praised Mr. Paharia’s model. Mr. Paharia is also conducting training sessions for local farmers and groups, motivating them to adopt similar techniques.
Dr. Nigam explained that Mr. Paharia treats his seeds with Beejamrit, a mix of cow urine and neem leaves, which protects crops from diseases. Additionally, he uses Jeevamrit—a fermented mixture of cow dung, cow urine, jaggery, gram flour, and soil—to boost microbial activity in the soil, thus enhancing its fertility.
Mulching to Retain Moisture and Improve Growth:
The farmer also applies mulching techniques by covering the base of the plants with dry leaves and grass. This helps retain soil moisture and supports crop growth even during heatwaves or drought conditions.
Natural farming is proving to be not only an eco-conscious approach but also a highly profitable one. Farmers like Rakesh Paharia are living proof that with the right methods and commitment, better yields and higher income are very much possible through nature-based agriculture.
Read More- Natural Farming, FPOs & Soil Cards Are Changing Indian Agriculture
