Mon Nov 25 23:50:00 UTC 2024: ## India Launches National Mission on Natural Farming
**NEW DELHI, November 26, 2024** – The Indian government launched the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) on Monday, aiming to promote chemical-free agriculture across the country. The ₹2,481 crore (approximately US$295 million) centrally-sponsored scheme, shared between the central and state governments, will focus on traditional farming methods using local resources and biodiversity.
The NMNF will initially implement programs in 15,000 Gram Panchayat clusters over the next two years, targeting one crore (10 million) farmers and 7.5 lakh hectares (1.85 million acres) of farmland. The initiative will provide training to farmers in natural farming techniques, including the production of bio-inputs like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit, utilizing local resources and existing infrastructure like Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and agricultural universities.
The government emphasizes the environmental and economic benefits of natural farming, including reduced input costs, improved soil health, and increased biodiversity. The mission aims to provide safe and nutritious food while reducing reliance on external chemical inputs. Approximately 18.75 lakh farmers will be involved in the input preparation process.
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