In a big decision, the Union Cabinet has approved the launch of National Mission on Natural Farming with a total outlay of Rs 2481 crore. The mission, which aims to promote natural farming in a mission mode across the country, will reduce input costs for farmers and promote biodiversity. This decision reflects the government's commitment to the welfare of farmers and sustainable agricultural practices.
Unlocking the Potential of Natural Farming: India's National Mission
Background
As the global population continues to expand, the demand for food and agricultural products is skyrocketing. However, conventional farming practices have taken a toll on the environment, leading to soil degradation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss.
To address these challenges, India has embarked on a revolutionary mission to promote natural farming across the country. The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) was launched in 2021 with an ambitious goal of converting 10 million hectares of farmland to natural farming by 2025.
Objectives of the NMNF
The NMNF aims to revolutionize Indian agriculture by transforming conventional practices into sustainable, eco-friendly, and farmer-centric approaches. Its core objectives include:
Mission Implementation
The NMNF will be implemented through a phased approach, with the first phase focusing on establishing 15 clusters in different agro-climatic zones. Farmers will be provided with training, inputs, and guidance to transition to natural farming.
The mission will also promote research and development, market linkages, and farmer-to-farmer knowledge exchange.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is natural farming?
Natural farming is a holistic farming system that relies on natural processes and inputs to maintain soil health, crop productivity, and biodiversity without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides.
2. Why is natural farming important?
Natural farming practices improve soil health, reduce input costs for farmers, enhance crop resilience to climate change, and promote biodiversity.
3. How does the NMNF benefit farmers?
Farmers participating in the NMNF will receive training, inputs, and guidance to transition to natural farming. The mission aims to reduce their input costs, increase their income, and improve their overall livelihoods.
4. What are the key features of the NMNF?
The NMNF focuses on promoting a holistic approach to farming, including the use of indigenous breeds of livestock, integrated pest management, and water conservation techniques.
5. How can I participate in the NMNF?
Interested farmers can contact their local agricultural extension offices or visit the NMNF website for information on training and support programs.
Conclusion
The National Mission on Natural Farming is a bold and transformative initiative that has the potential to revolutionize agriculture in India. By promoting sustainable, farmer-centric practices, it aims to ensure food security, protect the environment, and improve the livelihoods of farmers. As the mission progresses, it will be essential to provide continued support to farmers and ensure that the benefits of natural farming are disseminated widely.
During a speech for Deepotsav 2025 celebrations in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticized the opposition for denying Lord Ram's existence and obstructing the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple movement. He specifically called out the Congress for submitting an affidavit to the Supreme Court calling Lord Ram a myth and accused the Samajwadi Party of firing bullets at Ram devotees. Adityanath also emphasized the determination and resilience of the movement, which began in 1949 with the resolution "Ram Lalla Hum aayenge, Mandir wahin banayenge" and continues to this day.
Activists and advocacy groups staged massive demonstrations across the country in response to what they see as President Trump's abuse of power. With signs protesting policies such as mass deportations and the federal government shutdown, protestors showed a fierce love for their country. Though there were no reports of violence or arrests, Republicans labeled the demonstrations as "hate America" rallies. Organizers estimate that nearly 7 million people participated in over 2,700 cities and towns throughout the U.S., making it one of the largest reported one-day protests in American history.
With the 2025 Assembly Elections in Bihar on the horizon, the state's Araria constituency is gearing up for an intense revision of its electoral roll. This decision by the Election Commission aims to ensure that all eligible citizens are registered to vote in the upcoming elections. In the last election, the Congress emerged victorious in the constituency, but with no candidates declared yet, all eyes are on the official schedule for the 2025 Bihar Assembly Elections.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Andhra Pradesh marked Dhanvantari Jayanti with a colorful rally and speeches highlighting social inclusion, cultural heritage, and development. Leading state and district leaders, including BJP State president PVN Madhav, addressed the gathering and emphasized the party's commitment to equal respect for all religions and welfare initiatives for marginalized groups. At another event, Telangana BJP president Ramachandra Rao endorsed a proposed reservation for backward classes in Telangana and criticized the Congress and other parties for corruption while touting BJP's claim of clean governance.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, while flagging off the first batch of BrahMos missiles in Lucknow, warned Pakistan that their entire territory is now within range of India's powerful missiles. Singh also highlighted the success of Operation Sindoor, stating that it was just a glimpse of India's growing capabilities. The minister emphasized that BrahMos serves as a symbol of India's strategic confidence and is a key pillar of the country's defence forces.
Crowds gathered in various cities across the US and overseas today for the No Kings rallies, organized to protest against President Trump's administration and to defend First Amendment rights. From Los Angeles and New York to Chicago, Washington D.C, and Austin, Texas, protesters marched and chanted, carrying homemade signs with messages such as "We want all of the government to work" and "Make America Good Again." Despite the festive atmosphere, the message was serious as speakers called for the protection of Constitutional rights, which they feel are being threatened by the current administration.
After issuing directions earlier this year to expedite the disposal of execution petitions, the Supreme Court has expressed disappointment over the fact that more than 8.8 lakh such petitions are still pending across the country. Despite disposing of 3.38 lakh petitions since March, the Court notes that the backlog is still concerning. It warns that delay in executing decrees could result in travesty of justice and directs the Karnataka High Court to provide an explanation for not submitting data on pending cases.
With election results just around the corner, the Union Home Minister has reiterated the BJP's respect for its alliance partners. The decision on forming a government in light of the election outcome will be based on the results and mutually agreed upon by all parties involved. Stay updated with News24 for the latest developments in the political sphere.
In a surprise move, President Donald Trump has commuted the sentence of former U.S. Representative George Santos, who was serving a seven-year prison term for fraud and identity theft. Santos, a New York Republican, admitted to deceiving donors and stealing the identities of 11 people, including family members, to fund his campaign. The decision was announced by Trump on social media, spurring strong reactions from both supporters and critics.
In a significant development, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's third production line for the LCA Tejas Mk1A and also witnessed the aircraft's successful maiden flight in Nashik. The event also marked the inauguration of HAL's second production line for the Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40). With the approval of the purchase of 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets, the need for new inductions has been underlined by IAF chief AP Singh, while HAL officials remain confident in meeting this requirement.