The benefits of organic farming far outweigh the costs
What is organic farming?
In organic farming natural materials are used. It lays emphasis on soil fertility and plant health. The idea is, ‘the heal thier the soil (which includes the health of all the soil organisms such as worms and the micro organisms), the healthier the plant’. In this type of farming, agrochemicals like pesticides and fertilisers are not used, thus the product is pesticide-free.
When was it first introduced in India?
Organic farming is not new to India. In the Vedas , the Earth is referred to as mother and all the elements used in organic farming find a mention in them. Unfortunately, they have ceased to be a part of the present day agri cultural system. Yet, even today, many tribal people practice organic farming, though it could be because they cannot afford agrochemicals. However, the fact that their beliefs are strongly linked to their agricultural practices and the use of Earth’s diverse resources might also be one of the reasons for not switching over to agrochemicals.
What is the advantage of organic farming over use of agrochemicals?
Pesticide-residues in agricultural produce can be very bad for health. The Green Revolution in India, parti cularly in the states of Punjab and Haryana, was very successful. But it is only now that we are witnessing the adverse effects