Advancing Natural and Organic Farming Systems for Resilient Agriculture
Abstract
Agriculture faces an urgent need for sustainable practices to address environmental challenges while meeting the demands of a growing global population. Conventional farming, reliant on synthetic inputs and monoculture, has caused soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. However, natural and organic farming systems prioritize ecological health, soil fertility, and resilience to climate change. Natural farming emphasizes chemical-free practices with local inputs, while organic farming operates under certification standards to balance human and environmental health. Both systems employ techniques like composting, mulching, and integrated pest management, enhancing soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation. These practices offer numerous benefits, including improved soil fertility, reduced dependency on synthetic inputs, healthier food production, and climate resilience through carbon sequestration and efficient water use. Government initiatives, such as the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) and Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana, have supported the transition to sustainable farming, particularly for smallholders. Advancing these systems requires coordinated efforts in research, supportive policies, farmer education and market development. Together, natural and organic farming offer complementary approaches to building resilient agricultural systems, ones that can enhance food security while promoting environmental sustainability in the present era of climate change.