India has achieved a significant milestone by securing fourth position in global certified organic farming acreage. Organic farming has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, the Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana has been providing training in organic farming to farmers at a nominal fee. Farmers can also receive training in organic farming from district-level Krishi Vigyan Kendras. Interestingly, the government also provides benefits to farmers practising organic farming under the Traditional Agriculture Development Scheme.
What is organic farming, and what are India’s Statistics of Organic Farming?
Organic farming, or Organic agriculture, is basically an agricultural system that emphasises the use of naturally occurring and biodegradable inputs such as compost, manure, green manure and bone meal. It is an integrated farming system that strives for sustainability, improving soil fertility and biological diversity. India has the largest number of organic farmers in the world, approximately 2.3 million. Currently, 5.97 million hectares of land in India are under organic farming, of which Punjab accounts for approximately 11,089 hectares. It is noteworthy that Sikkim is the first state in the world to become completely organic.
Organic farming in India: Growing Trend of Farmers in Punjab
Farmers in Punjab have begun adopting organic farming, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, Inspector Jarnail Singh of Ludhiana started organic farming on his 4-acre farm in 2023. His brand, JVK Organic produces organic products such as coconut oil, pickles, jaggery, and wheat flour. Singh said he wants to expand his venture, which is still in its early stages of growth in Punjab.