Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday highlighted the growing importance of natural farming in improving farmers’ incomes, conserving water, and ensuring healthier food for consumers while addressing a Krishak Sammelan in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh.
Addressing farmers, Shah said the Basavan Mama Govansh Van Vihar in Rewa has emerged as a successful model for empowering small and marginal farmers through natural farming practices. He said the model farm would serve as a guide for millions of farmers across the country and play a pioneering role in expanding natural farming.
Shah noted that natural farming, rooted in traditional agricultural practices using cow dung and cow urine, eliminates the need for chemical fertilisers and pesticides while ensuring healthy and chemical-free produce. He pointed out that with just one indigenous cow, natural farming can be practiced on up to 21 acres of land. “Natural farming increases farmers’ income, conserves water resources and protects consumers from various diseases,” he said.
The Union Minister said nearly 40 lakh farmers across India have already adopted natural farming and are witnessing improved yields. To further support these farmers, he said the Ministry of Cooperation has established two major cooperatives that will handle certification, testing, packaging, marketing and export of organic and natural produce.
Shah added that more than 400 laboratories across the country would soon be engaged in certifying farms and produce as natural, a step that could increase farmers’ incomes by up to one-and-a-half times. He said there is a growing global demand for organic products and stressed the need for scientific testing, proper certification and effective marketing to help Indian farmers access international markets.
Highlighting environmental conservation, Shah urged people to pledge to serve nature by planting at least five peepal trees, noting that the species is known for producing high levels of oxygen.
Referring to regional development, Shah said the Rewa region is steadily emerging as a prosperous area, citing the presence of Asia’s largest solar power plant and improved four-lane road connectivity linking Rewa with Prayagraj and Jabalpur.
Paying tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birth anniversary, Shah said Rewa was one of Vajpayee’s favourite places. He described Vajpayee as a leader who placed great emphasis on integrity and transparency in public life and whose words and actions consistently reflected his principles.
“Leaders like Atal ji are rare – whose life and words complemented each other,” Shah said.
The event was attended by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and other senior dignitaries.
