Union Cabinet Approves National Mission on Natural Farming to Foster Sustainable Agriculture

New Delhi: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. With a total outlay of ₹2,481 crore until the 15th Finance Commission period (2025-26), the scheme seeks to transform agricultural practices across the country by promoting sustainable, chemical-free farming rooted in traditional knowledge and local agro-ecological principles.

The NMNF aims to transition Indian agriculture toward sustainability and climate resilience while ensuring healthier food options for farmers and consumers. This shift focuses on integrating local livestock-based natural farming methods with diversified crop systems, reducing dependency on costly external inputs, and rejuvenating soil health and fertility. The initiative will benefit farmers by lowering cultivation costs and enhancing resilience to climate risks such as waterlogging, floods, and droughts.

The mission plans to establish 15,000 clusters in Gram Panchayats over the next two years, reaching one crore farmers and covering 7.5 lakh hectares of farmland. Priority will be given to areas with existing natural farming practices and active support structures like self-help groups, primary agricultural credit societies, and farmer producer organizations.

To support these efforts, the government will set up 10,000 Bio-input Resource Centres to supply natural farming inputs and 2,000 model demonstration farms at Krishi Vigyan Kendras, agricultural universities, and farmers’ fields. These centers will train over 18.75 lakh farmers in preparing natural inputs such as Jeevamrit and Beejamrit. Around 30,000 Krishi Sakhis and community resource persons will work closely with farmers to raise awareness, mobilize participation, and provide on-ground assistance.

The mission also focuses on providing farmers with easy and simplified certification processes and establishing dedicated branding for natural farming produce to enhance market accessibility. Digital integration is a core component of NMNF, with real-time monitoring of the scheme conducted through an online portal featuring geo-tagged data.

By promoting practices that boost soil carbon content, water efficiency, and biodiversity, the NMNF addresses environmental and health concerns linked to conventional farming methods. The scheme also envisions a convergence with existing government programs to strengthen livestock development, establish local market linkages, and ensure widespread adoption of natural farming practices.

The mission extends its reach to academic engagement by involving students through the Rural Agricultural Work Experience program and introducing dedicated undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma courses in natural farming.

This initiative represents a significant step toward sustainable agriculture, aligning with India’s broader goals of environmental conservation and sustainable development, while ensuring a healthier and more resilient agricultural system for future generations.