An agricultural technique that is neither organic farming nor the kind that uses fertilisers and pesticides -- this was the focus of the Tamil Nadu Natural Farming Project, recently launched at a function at Epic (Eco Park and Information Centre) in Padur, off Rajiv Gandhi Salai.

The technique, called natural farming, is where crops are grown all year round. It is done in such a way that plants that attract pests are grown on one side of the plot to safeguard the crops, seeds meant for the next crop are collected from the previous crop, and the top soil is disturbed minimally to keep the microbes intact.

As part of the project, members of self-help groups (SHGs) from four clusters in the Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, and Kancheepuram districts are being trained in natural farming techniques. Each cluster will cover five villages. This initiative serves as a pilot project for the implementation of these techniques across the State. The know-how is being provided by Rythu Sadhikara Samstha (RySS), a resource organisation based in Andhra Pradesh.

MoU signed

Gagandeep Singh Bedi, Additional Chief Secretary, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, said that the concept of natural farming has been gaining attention. In this system, the aim is to ensure continuous production of some type of farm produce throughout the year. Synthetic fertilisers are avoided, and biostimulants are encouraged as catalysts for plant growth. Under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission, the Tamil Nadu Corporation for Development of Women has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with RySS to train women in these districts.

Training has already begun for farmers from Tamil Nadu who will take the lead in imparting training to others. These farmers will serve as resource persons, capable of promoting this system of natural farming. The approach involves the use of indigenous seeds, integration of animals into farming, reduction in cultivation costs, assurance of regular income for farmers, and the production of safe, nutritious, chemical-free food.

SHGs in three T.N. districts to be trained in natural farming techniques