A Natural Shift: Governor Advocates for Chemical-Free Farming

Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat highlights the negative health impacts of chemical farming and promotes natural farming as a sustainable alternative. He cites environmental and nutritional benefits, urging a return to traditional methods and seed varieties to combat the issues of soil degradation and farmer indebtedness.

Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat emphasized the pressing need to shift from chemical-based farming to natural farming due to the severe health impacts posed on the population. He shared his insights during a Natural Farming Conference at the College of Agriculture, pointing out the increasing demand for farmers practicing natural methods over traditional family doctors.

The Governor pointed to a United Nations report highlighting that chemical farming may have dire consequences if not addressed promptly. He explained that chemical farming harms soil microorganisms essential for nutrient transfer, altering the soil's texture and depleting food nutrients. This can lead to increased cancer rates due to nitrogen in urea forming nitrous oxide. Thus, natural farming offers a path to resolve these issues.

Governor Devvrat underscored the importance of selecting appropriate seeds, employing soil mulching, and crop diversification in natural farming practices. He explained how earthworms contribute to soil health and enrichment, urging agricultural universities to research traditional seed varieties to enhance resistance to climate change and diseases. This approach could mitigate the financial burden on farmers caused by chemical farming's expenses.

(With inputs from agencies.)