Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit & Best Practices Guide

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Empowering Farmers:
Natural Farming Training Toolkit
& Best Practices Guide
Training Manual for Farmers and Extension Officers EMPOWERING FARMERS: NATURAL FARMING TRAINING TOOLKIT AND BEST
PRACTICES GUIDE
Published: February 2026
ISBN : 978-81-991080-0-4
DISCLAIMER:
This training manual has been prepared based on information and inputs received from State
Departments of Agriculture, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Agricultural Universities, and relevant
non-governmental organizations. Neither NITI Aayog nor the authors shall be held responsible
or liable for any loss, damage, or consequences arising from the use or interpretation of the
information contained in this publication.
AUTHORS:
Dr. Neelam Patel
Senior Adviser, NITI Aayog
Shri Paremal Banafarr
Consultant Grade-I, NITI Aayog
Shri Somnath Choudhary
Consultant Grade-II, NITI Aayog Empowering Farmers:
Natural Farming Training Toolkit
& Best Practices Guide
Training Manual for Farmers and Extension Officers Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide iv Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide v Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide vi
Table of Contents
Message By the Hon’ble VC, NITI Aayogi
Message By the Hon’ble Member (Agriculture) NITI Aayogii
Message By the CEO, NITI Aayogiii
Acknowledgements By the Senior Adviser (Agri. Tech Divison), NITI Aayogiv
Table of Contentsvi
List of Figuresx
List of Tablesxii
List of Abbreviations / Acronymsxiv
Chapter 1: The Science of Natural Farming1
1.1 Introduction2
1.2 The Evolution of Natural Farming2
1.3 Definition of Natural Farming6
1.4 Initiatives taken for Promotion of Natural Farming in India6
1.5 Benefits of Natural Farming7
1.6 Conventional Farming v/s Organic Farming v/s Natural Farming9
1.7 Components of Natural Farming11
1.8 Principles of Natural Farming13
1.9 Cost of Cultivation in Natural v/s Conventional Farming15
References & Additional Readings16
Chapter 2: Seed Selection & Treatment17
2.1 Introduction18
2.2 Seed Selection18
2.3 Seed Treatment19
Chapter 3: Water Conservation Methods in Natural Farming25
3.1 Introduction26
3.2 Contour farming26
3.3 Choice of Crops47 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide vii
3.4 Crop Rotation28
3.5 Cover Crops30
3.6 Intercropping31
3.7 Strip Cropping33
3.8 Mulching35
3.9 Micro Irrigation in Natural Farming37
References & Additional Readings40
Chapter 4: Soil Health Management Through Natural Farming41
4.1 Introduction42
4.2 Soil Management43
References & Additional Readings46
Chapter 5: Pest and Disease Management47
5.1 Introduction48
5.2 Prevention48
5.3 Monitoring of Pests, Insects and Diseases48
5.4 Management Practices51
5.5 Curative Methods51
5.6 Weed Management55
5.7 Step-By-Step Weed Management Schedule57
References & Additional Readings58
Chapter 6: Bio-Input Production Methods59
6.1 Introduction60
6.2 On-Farm Production Technology of Bio-Inputs60
6.3 Bio-Inputs Resources Centres74
6.4 Schemes for Setting up of BRCs83
References & Additional Readings83
Chapter 7: Certification & Marketing85
7.1 Introduction86
7.2 Importance of Certification86 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide viii
7.3 Major Certification Systems in India86
7.4 How to Apply for Certification88
7.5 Marketing of Natural Farming Produce89
References & Additional Readings91
Chapter 8: Best Practices for Key Crops93
8.1 Amla94
8.2 Apple98
8.3 Banana 100
8.4 Castor103
8.5 Cotton106
8.6 Cumin 108
8.7 Custard Apple109
8.8 Gram111
8.9 Groundnut113
8.10 Guava116
8.11 Maize118
8.12 Mango120
8.13 Moringa/Drumstick123
8.14 Paddy (Kharif) 124
8.15 Paddy (Rabi) 126
8.16 Papaya128
8.17 Pomegranate131
8.18 Potato134
8.19 Sugarcane137
8.20 Turmeric140
8.21 Vegetables143
8.22 Wheat 146
References & Additional Readings148 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide ix
Chapter 9: Carbon Credits in Natural Farming151
9.1 Introduction150
9.2 What are Carbon Credits?150
9.3 Carbon Credits Generation in Natural Farming150
9.4 Steps to Generate Carbon Credits in Natural Farming151
Conclusion152
Chapter 10: Integrated Framework and Toolkit for Natural Farming153
10.1 Farmer’s Toolkit: End-to-End155
10.2 Extension Officers’ Framework for Natural Farming Promotion158
10.3 Conclusion159
Chapter 11: Farmer Support Arrangements for Natural Farming161
11.1 Introduction162
11.2 National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)162
11.3 SATAT164
11.4 GOBARDHAN166
11.5 E-Resources for Natural Farming168 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide x
List of Figures
Fig. 1.1 Krishi-Parashar2
Fig. 1.2 Kautilya’s Arthashtra2
Fig. 1.3 Kashyapiya Krishi Sukti3
Fig. 1.4 Vrikshayurveda3
Fig. 1.5 Upavanavinoda3
Fig. 1.6 Vishvavallabha3
Fig. 1.7 Brihatsamhita3
Fig. 1.8 Lokopakara4
Fig. 1.9 Nuskha Dar Fanni-Falahat4
Fig. 1.10 Krishi Gita4
Fig. 1.11 Natural Farming Field in Eluru, Andhra Pradesh5
Fig. 1.12 Earthworms: Valuable Contributors to Soil Health8
Fig. 1.13 Comparative extent of damage in paddy field during natural disaster for
conventional versus natural farming (during cyclone Michaung)9
Fig. 1.14 Roots and tillers development in Natural Farming v/s Conventional
Farming in paddy9
Fig. 1.15 Components of Natural Farming13
Fig. 1.16 Principles of Natural Farming15
Fig. 2.1 Comparison Between Healthy and Unhealthy Seeds19
Fig. 2.2 Objectives of Seed Treatment19
Fig. 2.3 Comparison of Healthy Seedling and Damping off Seedling20
Fig. 2.4 Root Rot20
Fig. 2.5 Beejamrit preparation23
Fig. 2.6 Seed Treatment using Beejamrit23
Fig. 3.1 Contour Farming26
Fig. 3.2 Crop Rotation Model28
Fig 3.3 Leguminous Crops for Sustainable Crop Rotations29
Fig. 3.4 Intercropping Practice31
Fig. 3.5 Different Types of Intercrops32
Fig. 3.6 Strip Cropping 33
Fig. 3.7 Mulching35
Fig. 3.8 Crop Residue Mulch35
Fig. 3.9 Live Mulch36
Fig. 3.10 Drip Irrigation38
Fig 3.11 Sprinkler Irrigation39
Fig 4.1 Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing in rainfed areas44
Fig. 5.1 Pest Surveillance49
Fig. 5.2 Yellow Sticky Trap54
Fig. 5.3 Pheromone Trap54 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide xi
Fig. 6.1 Overview of Inputs in Natural Farming60
Fig. 6.2 Beejamrit Preparation60
Fig. 6.3 Use of Jeevamrit as a Foliar Spray62
Fig. 6.4 Ghanjeevamrit Preparation Training64
Fig. 6.5 Brahmastra Preparation66
Fig 6.6 Neemastra68
Fig 6.7 Agniastra Ingredients69
Fig 6.8 Dashaparni Ark Ingredients70
Fig 6.9 A Bio-Input Resource Centre Run by Mrs. Konda Usharani from
Andhra Pradesh 74
Fig. 6.10 A BRC in Andhra Pradesh (Source: RySS)75
Fig. 6.11 Sketch of Automation Plant for Jeevamrit Production77
Fig. 6.12 Cow Shed and Mixing of Cow Dung and Urine78
Fig. 6.13 Jeevamrit Tanks78
Fig. 6.14 Jeevamrit Filtration and Storage Tank79
Fig. 7.1 Stepwise Process of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Certification
under PGS-India88
Fig 8.1 Amla Crop94
Fig 8.2 Apple Crop97
Fig 8.3 Banana Crop100
Fig 8.4 Castor Crop103
Fig 8.5 Cotton Crop105
Fig 8.6 Cumin Crop107
Fig 8.7 Custard Apple Crop108
Fig 8.8 Gram Crop110
Fig 8.9 Groundnut Crop112
Fig 8.10 Guava Crop114
Fig 8.11 Maize Crop116
Fig 8.12 Mango Crop118
Fig 8.13 Moringa/Drumstick Crop121
Fig 8.14 Paddy (Kharif) Crop122
Fig 8.15 Paddy (Rabi) Crop124
Fig 8.16 Papaya Crop126
Fig 8.17 Pomegranate Crop129
Fig 8.18 Potato Crop132
Fig 8.19 Sugarcane Crop134
Fig 8.20 Turmeric Crop137
Fig 8.21 Vegetables Crop140
Fig 8.22 Wheat Crop143
Fig. 9.1 Process Flow for Carbon Credit Generation under Natural Farming149
Fig. 10.1 The Know-Hows of Natural Farming 155 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide xii
List of Tables
Table 1.1 Comparison between Conventional v/s Organic v/s Natural Farming10
Table 1.2 Cost economics of kharif rice cultivation (4
th
year) in 202315
Table 2.1 Panchgavya-Based Seed Treatment21
Table 3.1 Crop Suitability as Per Water and Light Conditions27
Table 3.2 Choice of Cover Crops and Benefits30
Table 3.3 Crop Selection in Natural Farming Intercropping32
Table 3.4 Crop Selection for Natural Farming Strip Cropping34
Table 3.5 Mulching Practices in NF37
Table 3.6 Drip Irrigated Crops Grown Under NF 38
Table 3.7 Sprinkler irrigation in crops grown under NF39
Table 5.1 Types of Crop Pests49
Table 5.2 Characteristics of Insects50
Table 5.3 Signs of Pest Damage50
Table 5.4 Mass-Trapping Techniques52
Table 5.5 Indicator Crops for the Nutrient Deficiency in Soil56
Table 6.1 Beejamrit Formulation: Ingredients, Microbial Dynamics and
Agronomic Role61
Table 6.2 Different compositions estimated in Beejamrit62
Table 6.3 Jeevamrit Formulation: Ingredients, Microbial Dynamics and
Agronomic Role 63
Table 6.4 Different compositions estimated in Jeevamrit63
Table 6.5 Ghanjeevamrit Formulation: Ingredients, Microbial Dynamics and
Agronomic Role65
Table 6.6 Different Compositions Estimated in Ghanjeevamrit66
Table 6.7 Brahmastra Formulation: Ingredients, Preparation Method and Application67
Table 6.8 Different Compositions Estimated in Brahmastra67
Table 6.9 Neemastra Formulation: Ingredients, Preparation Method and Application68
Table 6.10 Different Compositions Estimated in Neemastra68 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide xiii
Table 6.11 Agniastra Formulation: Ingredients, Preparation Method and Application69
Table 6.12 Dashaparni Ark Formulation: Ingredients, Preparation Method and
Application71
Table 6.13 Simple Formulations for Pest Control and Plant Health71
Table 6.14 Advanced Formulations for Broad-Spectrum Pest Control73
Table 6.15 Cow Dung and Cow Urine Requirement for Various Products in
Fermentation Tanks of BRCs76
Table 6.16 Costs involved for establishing the automation plant for Jeevamrit
production77
Table 6.17 Recurring costs in an automated plant for Jeevamrit preparation
(5000 litres).77
Table 6.18 Recurring cost for Jeevamrit preparation (10000 litres)79
Table 6.19 Establishment costs involved in Jeevamrit production Model-3.80
Table 6.20 Establishment costs involved in Jeevamrit production Model-3.80
Table 6.21 Raw materials required for preparation of 100 kg Ghanjeevamrit81
Table 6.22 Raw materials required for preparation of Dashparni Ark in 1000 l tank82
Table 8.1 Month-wise Management Schedule for Apple Orchards Under
Natural Farming 99
Table 8.2 S2S Kit and Pest Management for Banana102
Table 8.3 Variety Selection, Spacing, and Seed Rate for Gram111
Table 8.4 Jeevamrit Spraying Schedule for Mango120
Table 8.5 S2S Kit and Pest Management for Mango120
Table 10.1 Timeline of Farmer’s Key Natural Farming Actions153
Table 10.2 Essential Resources for Natural Farming155
Table 10.3 Extension Officer’s Four-Pillar Action Matrix156
Table 11.1 GOBARDHAN Scheme: Standard Pattern of CFA for
Waste To Energy Projects165 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide xiv
List of Abbreviations / Acronyms
Short FormFull Form
APCNF Andhra Pradesh Community Natural Farming
ATMA State Project Implementation Unit
B:C Benefit to Cost Ratio
BJM Beejamrit
BPKP Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati
CHC Custom Hiring Centre
CIKS Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems
CIPHET Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology
CSO Civil Society Organisations
DAS Days After Sowing
DAT Days After Transplanting
DGC Days Green Cover
DHT Dry Heat Treatment
JM Jeevamrit
DPM District Project Manager
ETL Economic Threshold Level
F.A.W. Fall Army Worm
FFS Farmer Field Schools
FPO Farmer Producer Organisation
FYM Farmyard Manure
GJM Ghanjeevamrit
GM Genetically Modified
HaNPV Helicoverpa armigera Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus
ICAR Indian Council of Agricultural Research
IPM Integrated Pest Management
ISBN International Standard Book Number Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide xv
Short FormFull Form
K Potassium
KVK Krishi Vigyan Kendra
LNFI Local Natural Farming Institutions
MANAGE National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management
N Nitrogen
NCONF National Centre for Organic & Natural Farming
NF Natural Farming
NITI AayogNational Institution for Transforming India
NMNF National Mission on Natural Farming
NPM Non-Pesticide Management
NSKE Neem Seed Kernel Extract
P₂O₅ Phosphorus Pentoxide
PACS Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
PK3Y Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana
PKVY Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
PMDS Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing
RDS Rabi Dry Sowing
RKVY Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
RySS Rythu Sadhikara Samstha
S2S Seed to Seed
SAMETI State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute
SHG Self-Help Groups
SPNF Subhash Palekar Natural Farming
SRI System of Rice Intensification
SRT Saguna Rice Technology
VC Vice-Chairman
VO Village organisations
ZBNF Zero-Budget Natural Farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 1
CHAPTER 1
The Science of
Natural Farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 2
1.1 Introduction
Natural farming is an agricultural production system that eliminates the use of synthetic chemicals
and fertilizers, centred around integrating livestock into the crop production system. This method
is rooted in agroecology, promoting a diverse farming system that incorporates crops, trees,
and animals to protect biodiversity. By adopting natural farming, farmers can increase their
income due to a significant reduction in the cost cultivation, while simultaneously improving
soil health, protecting the environment, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It leverages
existing ecological processes within and around the farm to support sustainable agriculture.
On a global scale, natural farming falls under the umbrella of regenerative agriculture, a leading
strategy for environmental conservation and sustainability. This farming approach plays a significant
role in sustainable crop management by capturing atmospheric carbon in soil and plant matter,
thereby reducing its harmful impact on the climate while benefiting agricultural ecosystems.
1.2 The Evolution of Natural Farming
Agriculture has always been and will continue to be important for India. Our sages, saints,
and wise men have described the proper collection of seeds, their drying and storage, the
removal of weed seeds, ensuring seed quality, and maintaining soil health since the Vedic
period. This significant agricultural knowledge remains relevant even today. Historically,
sustainability has been one of the core values embedded in Indian culture, encompassing
both the day-to-day lives of humans and agricultural practices. The evolution of natural
farming in India could be understood with the following historical references.
1.2.1 Historical Texts
(i) Krishi-Parashar (circa 400 BC): Krishi-Parashar
is considered the world’s first systematic agricultural
textbook, written by Maharishi Parashar. This book
outlines methods for predicting rainfall based on the
movement and position of planets, the distribution of
rainfall, indicators of drought, agricultural practices,
animal management, nutrient management, seed
collection and conservation, agricultural tools like
plough design, and methods of crop cultivation (Fig.
1.1). The information it contains is also useful for
modern agriculture.
(ii) Kautilya’s Arthashastra (circa 321 BC): Written by
Acharya Kautilya, this book contains one chapter titled
‘Sitadhyaksha’. This chapter specifically discusses the
importance of cattle rearing, measuring rainfall, seed
treatment and procurement, crop rotation, and the
methods and timing of harvesting (Fig. 1.2).
(iii) Kashyapiya Krishi Sukti (circa 800 AD): Authored
by Sage Kashyap, it is an excellent book (Fig. 1.3)
on agriculture. It provides details on rice production
Fig. 1.1:
Krishi-Parashar
Fig. 1.2:
Kautilya’s
Arthashtra Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 3
in India’s irrigated regions, livestock management, soil
quality, and the cultivation of pulses, vegetables, fruits,
spices, and ornamental plants on high ground. Special
emphasis is also placed on planting trees, preparing
gardens, marketing, and mining.
(iv) Vrikshayurveda (circa 1000 AD): Authored by the
physician Surapala, it is a valuable compilation
of agricultural knowledge (Fig. 1.4). It includes
information on developing gardens, the importance of
plants, planting trees near buildings, purchasing seeds
and planting materials, testing, treatment, preparing
pits, land selection, irrigation methods, nutrition,
and the use of manure. Surapala described a unique
fermented liquid organic fertilizer solution and plant
protection material called ‘Kunapala,’ which is the
world’s first-known fermented natural liquid manure. It
also provides information on plant nutrition, diseases,
protecting plants with natural products, developing
gardens, agricultural and horticultural miracles, the
use of plant species as indicators for crop and animal
production, and descriptions of medicinal plants.
(v) Upavanavinoda (circa 1283-1301 AD): Upavanavinoda
(meaning a text on tree and garden-horticulture) is
authored by Sarangadhara, the ‘Sarangadhara-
paddhati’ is described (Fig. 1.5). It covers various
topics such as the advantages and disadvantages
of planting trees near houses, soil, tree planting, seed
sowing, pits, spacing between trees, auspicious and
inauspicious plants, irrigation (watering), creating
gardens, digging wells, Kunapa (liquid manure), miracle
plants (exotic plants), natural indicators for the growth
of cereal crops, and natural signs for animals and their
reproduction.
(vi) Vishvavallabha (circa 1577 AD): Written by
Chakrapani Mishra, this is an important manuscript
that describes various aspects of agriculture, keeping in
mind the needs of the Mewar region. It provides
information on groundwater detection, soil testing,
planting, water management, nutrition, plant diseases
and treatment, and the wonders of plants and seeds (Fig.
1.6). This text is useful for arid, semi-arid, humid, and
hilly regions.
Fig. 1.6:
Vishvavallabha
Fig. 1.3: Kashy-
apiya Krishi Sukti
Fig. 1.4:
Vrikshayurveda
Fig. 1.5:
Upavanavinoda
Fig. 1.7:
Brihatsamhita Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 4
(vii) Brihatsamhita (circa 600 AD): Authored by
Varahamihira, Brihatsamhita covers various subjects
such as astronomy, physics, geology, horticulture,
and archaeology (Fig. 1.7). In it, Vrikshayurveda is
described as a major topic.
(viii) Lokopakara (circa 1000 AD): This 1000-year-old
manuscript describes methods and parameters for
finding water sources, Vrikshayurveda, pest control
methods, perfume making, and veterinary medicine
(Fig. 1.8.).
(ix) Nuskha Dar Fanni-Falahat (The Art of Agriculture)
(circa 1650 AD): Authored by Prince Dara Shikoh, this
text is a synthesis of agricultural techniques from West
Asia and India. It mentions the introduction of grafting
on related trees and the drip irrigation system, which is
also beneficial for modern agriculture (Fig. 1.9).
(x) Krishi Gita (circa 15
th
century): Written by the scholar
C. Govinda Varrier, this text (Fig. 1.10) describes useful
crops grown in the coastal regions of India. It provides
information on 124 varieties of rice and numerous other
crops, along with their varieties, for various regions.
It is well-documented in the literature that, before the advent of the Green
Revolution, India had a rich and diverse agricultural history, achieving high
yields for centuries. Some examples are given here:
10
th
- 13
th
CENTURY:
Inscriptions from the Chola temples
in Ramanathapuram (Tamil Nadu)
show that rice yield was 6.6 t/ha.
Great biodiversity was recorded in
the cultivation of millets, paddy,
pulses, vegetables, and fruits.
16
th
CENTURY:
The Ain-i-Akbari by Abul Fazl
records wheat productivity under
Mughal administration; modern
reconstructions suggest yields of
around 1–1.3 t/ha for unirrigated
wheat in certain regions.
19
th
CENTURY:
i) The Edinburgh Review reported
that the productivity of land in
India was 3 times higher than in
England.
ii) Colonial revenue records from
parts of South India indicate that
traditional irrigated rice systems
could achieve relatively high
productivity in localized areas.
iii) The Dictionary of Economic
Products of India (British India)
stated that the yield of desi
cotton in various parts of India
was significantly higher than the
national average for 2017-18
(505 kg/ha).
1 2 3
Fig. 1.9: Nuskha
Dar Fanni-Falahat
Fig. 1.8:
Lokopakara
Fig. 1.10:
Krishi Gita Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 5
In addition, describing relationship between plants and humans, references are also found in
various texts from millennia ago and recent history, such as:
• Rigveda (circa 8000 BC) mentions the profession of farming and agricultural
activities.
• Lord Rama (circa 5000 BC) asked Bharata if special care was being taken of all
those engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry.
• Thiruvalluvar (70 BC), who wrote the Tamil classic Thirukkural, provides evidence
that in Indian civilisation, farming was considered the noblest profession, before
which even royalty bowed.
From ancient times until the pre-British era, farming as a community was a special tradition and
held a respected and dignified place in the society. Wealth was measured by natural resources.
‘Gau-dhan’ (cow), ‘Ashva-dhan’ (horse), ‘Gaj-dhan’ (elephant), etc., were all different forms
of wealth. ‘Vidya-dhan’ (knowledge), like the raw material of artisans, was also a form of wealth.
Among all these popular forms of wealth, the most important was ‘Dhanya’, i.e., rice/crops. Most
transactions in society were conducted through ‘Dhanya’.
There has also been a widespread tradition of ‘Natural Farming’, which has been supported by
advocates such as Shri Narayan Reddy (Karnataka), Shri Shripad Dabholkar (Maharashtra),
Shri G. Nammalvar (Tamil Nadu), Shri Deepak Suchde (Madhya Pradesh), and Shri Bhaskar
Save (popularly known as the ‘Gandhi of Natural Farming’, working in Gujarat).
1.2.2 Natural Farming in the Contemporary Context
Zero-Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF): Developed in the 1980s by Indian farmer
and agricultural scientist Shri Subhash Palekar, this is a farming system in which the
cost of farming is minimised or eliminated. He established ZBNF by experimenting
it in his own land after self-studying the Vedas, organic farming, and traditional
agricultural science.
However, the initiative by former Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Acharya
Devvrat, who is the current Governor of Gujarat and Maharastra, led to the ‘natural
farming movement’ in India. It is the result of his tireless efforts that natural farming
has reached all the panchayats and villages of the state in a short period of three years.
Further, the Government of India coined the term ‘Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi
Paddhati’ (BPKP) for natural farming, although the roots of all terminologies lie
in Vrikshayurveda, which is a comprehensive knowledge of natural farming and
is in complete harmony with nature (Fig. 1.11).
Fig. 1.11: Natural Farming Field in Eluru, Andhra Pradesh Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 6
On 16
th
December 2021, the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra
Modi, while addressing a conference on natural farming, emphasised the adoption
of natural farming in India.
“We have to take our agriculture out of the chemistry lab and connect it to the
laboratory of nature. When I speak of the laboratory of nature, it is completely
science-based.
Today, I urge every state, every state government, to come forward to make nat-
ural farming a mass movement. In this Amrit Mahotsav, we can make an effort
to connect at least one village from every panchayat with natural farming.
Come, in the Amrit Mahotsav of Independence, let us take a pledge to free
Mother Earth from chemical fertilizers and pesticides.”
1.3 Definition of Natural Farming
Masanobu Fukuoka’s “Natural Farming Method” or “Do-Nothing Farming” is an ecological
approach to agriculture developed by the Japanese farmer and philosopher Masanobu
Fukuoka. He introduced the four principles of natural farming:
(i) no tilling,
(ii) no fertilizers,
(iii) no weeding, and
(iv) no pesticides.
These four principles were given by Masanobu Fukuoka in his book “The One-Straw
Revolution” in 1975.
According to the MoA&FW, Natural Farming is a chemical-free farming system rooted in
Indian tradition, enriched with modern understanding of ecology, resource recycling and
on-farm resource optimisation. It is considered an agroecology-based, diversified farming
system that integrates crops, trees, and livestock with functional biodiversity. It is largely
based on on-farm biomass recycling, with a major emphasis on biomass mulching, the
use of on-farm cow dung-urine formulations, maintaining soil aeration, and the exclusion
of all synthetic chemical inputs.
According to NITI Aayog, Natural farming is a chemical-free and livestock-based farming
system that is rooted in ecological principles. This method integrates crops, trees, and
animals to maximise biodiversity, thereby maintaining harmony with the environment.
Natural farming relies on the natural processes occurring within and around the farm,
eliminating the need for external chemical inputs.
1.4 Initiatives taken for Promotion of Natural Farming in India
Natural farming has been indigenous to India and has been practiced in different forms in
different regions; the most popular of which is practised in Andhra Pradesh. The practice has
also spread, in other forms, to other states, especially those in southern India. In 2019-20,
Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) was launched by the Government of India as
a sub-scheme under Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), aimed to promote natural
farming that reduces use of externally purchased inputs, promoting traditional indigenous Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 7
practices largely based on on-farm biomass recycling, emphasising mulching and using
cow dung and urine formulations. As a result of these policies, the number of farmers who
practice natural farming has gone up from 40,000 in 2016 to more than 10 lakh farmers in
2025
1
. The total area covered as of now is over 10 lakh hectares.
2
The widespread adoption
of natural farming across various states in India is increasing, clearly indicating that they
have experienced its benefits.
The Government of India has recently launched the National Mission on Natural Farming
(NMNF) with a total outlay of Rs. 2481 crores and farmer support arrangements for the
adoption of natural farming, and sensitising of block, district and state-level officers to natural
farming through field visits/ demonstrations.
3
The NMNF envisages a planned transition
towards a mass movement (Jan Bhagidari) to bring 7.5 lakh hectares across 15,000 clusters
in gram panchayats as natural farming clusters.
4
The government intends to bring 1 crore
farmers under natural farming in the next two years, supported by certification and branding.
It also seeks to establish 10,000 need-based bio-input resource centres. It seeks to achieve
this through a robust knowledge extension ecosystem of civil society organisations (CSO)
such as Self-Help Groups (SHG), Village organisations (VO), Primary Agricultural Credit
Societies (PACS), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), etc. Close collaboration with
practicing NF farmers/communities, Local NF Institutions (LNFI) is essential for such a
transition. The National Centre for Organic & Natural Farming (NCONF) will facilitate
the certification and training of Master Trainers.
Nearly 9.40 lakh ha area initiated under Natural Farming in various states. Some states
such as Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh, have established institutional
arrangements to promote natural farming
5
. Andhra Pradesh has implemented large-scale
natural farming through the Rythu Sadhikara Samstha (RySS); Himachal Pradesh has done
so through the Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana (PK3Y); and even Uttar Pradesh,
Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, and others have supporting programs.
1.5 Benefits of Natural Farming
Since natural farming avoids synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, it eliminates health risks
associated with chemical exposure. Thus, it prevents soil degradation and maintains its
organic carbon levels, ensuring long-term fertility. It positively impacts soil life, encouraging
the growth of beneficial microbes and organisms, such as earthworms (Fig. 1.12), which are
crucial for maintaining soil vitality. The produce is also nutritionally richer, contributing
to overall well-being. Natural farming, due to its ecological approach, offers numerous
benefits, thereby promoting overall health. Some of the key benefits of natural farming
are as below:
1. Empirical evidence from multi-state field studies shows that Natural Farming
reduces the paid-out cost of cultivation by at least 5–10% across major crops,
with substantially higher reductions (up to 20–55%) in several crops and states,
primarily due to lower material/input costs.
6
1 https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=155019&ModuleId=3
2 https://naturalfarming.dac.gov.in/NaturalFarming/Concept
3 https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2077094
4 https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?id=155019&NoteId=155019&ModuleId=3
5 https://naturalfarming.dac.gov.in/NaturalFarming/ImplementationProcess
6 https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2021-03/NaturalFarmingProjectReport-ICAR-NAARM.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 8
2. Natural Farming leads to higher farmer income by reducing the cost of cultivation,
reflected in a consistent improvement in the Benefit–Cost (B:C) ratio across states-
ranging from a modest increase of over 15% in Maharashtra to 3–4 times higher
B:C ratios in Karnataka, compared to non-Natural Farming systems.
3. Soil Organic Carbon (SOC), which is the main component of soil organic matter
and provides water retention capacity, structure, and fertility to the soil, has
decreased from 2.5% in 1947 to 0.4%, which is significantly below the acceptable
range of 1-1.5%. Natural farming increases SOC by up to 45%.
4. Savings in water and electricity by 50-60%.
7
5. Reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 55-85%.
8
6. Natural Farming improves the health of farmers and consumers by avoiding
synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, with programme evidence from Andhra Pradesh
indicating an 80–100% reduction in chemical pesticide use under Natural Farming
systems
9
.
7. Low livestock productivity remains a major concern. Livestock can be made
economically viable by integrating them with agroecological farming systems.
8. Natural Farming promotes crop diversification, intercropping and multi-layer
cropping systems, which enhance farm income and nutritional security; evidence
from Andhra Pradesh’s Community Managed Natural Farming programme shows
that diversified NF farms earn 20–40% higher net incomes and produce a wider
basket of nutritious foods (pulses, millets, vegetables) compared to mono-cropped
conventional farms.
10
9. Growth in soil microorganisms through the use of bio-stimulants.
Fig. 1.12: Earthworms: Valuable Contributors to Soil Health
7 CSTEP. (2020). Life Cycle Assessment of ZBNF and Non-ZBNF: A Preliminary Study in Andhra Pradesh (CSTEP-RR-2020-02). Centre for
the Study of Science, Technology and Policy
8 CSTEP. (2020). Life cycle assessment of Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) and non-ZBNF: Evidence from Andhra Pradesh. Centre for
Study of Science, Technology and Policy.
9 https://www.fao.org/family-farming/detail/en/c/1629947/
10 https://www.fao.org/family-farming/detail/en/c/1629947/ Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 9
10. Improvement in soil health, leading to better holding of roots in soil, thus reducing
the extent of damage in case of a natural disaster. Figure 1.13 shows the comparative
extents of damage caused to paddy fields for conventional versus natural farming
in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh (December 2023). This may be attributed to the roots
and tillers development in soil in natural farming as compared to conventional
farming (Fig. 1.14).
11. Natural farming fosters employment opportunities through local enterprises
focused on bio-inputs, value addition, and marketing, ensuring that profits circulate
within rural communities.
Fig. 1.13: Comparative extent of damage in paddy field during natural disaster for conventional versus natural farming
(during cyclone Michaung)
Fig. 1.14: Roots and tillers development in Natural Farming v/s Conventional Farming in paddy
(Source: RySS) Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 10
1.6 Conventional Farming v/s Organic Farming v/s Natural Farming
Both natural and organic farming represent sustainable agricultural models, but they differ
significantly. Organic farming allows the use of certain organic fertilizers and bio-pesticides
produced outside, whereas natural farming completely avoids external inputs, relying instead
on natural biological products. By emphasizing self-sustaining ecosystems, natural farming
eliminates the dependency on external fertilizers and pesticides, making it a cost-effective
and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional and organic farming practices.
The differences between conventional farming, organic farming and natural farming are
given in Table 1.1.
Table 1.1: Comparison between Conventional v/s Organic v/s Natural Farming
Key Comparative
Parameters
Conventional FarmingOrganic FarmingNatural Farming
Focus
Input intensive system,
focusing on increasing
production with less
attention on biodiversity
conservation
Usage of
organic inputs
to produce crops
and improve soil
health, maintain
biodiversity and
sustainability
Using organic inputs
prepared locally
at the farm level,
and improving soil
health, biodiversity
conservation and
sustainability
Use of Chemicals
Heavy use of
synthetic fertilizers,
pesticides, herbicides
Uses organic
bio-pesticides &
organic fertilizers
Use of farm-made bio-
stimulants and natural
farming inputs
Soil Tillage Frequent and deep tillage
Reduced or
minimal tillage
Reduced or
minimal tillage
Soil Health ApproachNeglected; focus on yield
Emphasis on soil
organic matter
Emphasis on
the healthy soil
microbiome and
soil health
Inputs Source
Synthetic,
industrially produced
Farm-based,
externally
sourced
(certified organic)
Entirely farm-derived;
local & natural
products (e.g., dung,
urine, jaggery and
gram flour etc.)
Crop Diversity Often monoculture
Crop rotation &
intercropping
High diversity
(8+ crops/year)
Soil Cover
Often bare soil
after harvest
Some
cover cropping
Maintain living or dead
plant cover as mulching
Animal IntegrationMinimal or absent
An integral part
of the system
An integral part of
the system (livestock,
poultry, etc.) Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 11
Key Comparative
Parameters
Conventional FarmingOrganic FarmingNatural Farming
Pest &
Disease Control
Chemical
pesticides, fungicides
Botanical &
microbial inputs,
biocontrol agents
Pest-resistant cropping
systems; botanical
extracts; bioinsecticide
and biopesticide
Cost of Cultivation
High-cost intensive (due
to external inputs)
High cost due
to the need for
bulk manure and
bio-fertilisers to
replace chemical
fertilisers.
Low-cost intensive as
uses on-farm bio inputs
application.
Long-term
Sustainability
Poor (depletes
natural resources)
Moderate to Good
Excellent (regenerative
approach)
Impact
on Environment
High GHG emissions and
biodiversity loss
Lower GHG
emissions than
conventional
farming
Environment-
friendly; Minimum
GHG emission, soil
microbes’ conservation,
biodiversity protection,
natural resources
conservation
Farmer DependencyHigh (on market inputs)
Moderate (needs
certified inputs)
Very Low (self-
reliant model)
1.7 Components of Natural Farming
Natural farming is an agricultural farming system that harmonizes farming practices with
the natural rhythms and ecosystems of the environment. Its fundamental components
include soil health, crop diversity, water management, and natural pest control (Fig. 1.15).
Enhancing soil health is crucial and is typically achievable through natural farming inputs
such as Jeevamrit and Ghanjeevamrit, mulching, and the use of green manure, all of which
contribute to replenishing organic matter and nutrients. Crop diversity is promoted through
techniques such as intercropping and crop rotation, which help to mitigate the risk of pests
and diseases besides improving soil health. Water management is centred on practices
such as rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation methods, including drip irrigation, to
conserve water resources.
Natural Farming utilises farm-based bio-inputs, including Beejamrit, Ghanjeevamrit,
Jeevamrit, Neemastra, and Brahmastra, to enhance soil and crop health. Beejamrit, a seed
treatment, provides beneficial microbes and bioactive compounds that protect seedlings and
induce systemic resistance. Ghanjeevamrit, its dry form, serves as a stable soil amendment.
Jeevamrit, a microbial-rich “living broth,” supplies free-living N-fixers, P-solubilizers,
K-mobilizers, and hormone-producing microbes for soil rejuvenation. Neemastra, prepared
from neem and other botanicals, functions as a broad-spectrum bio-pesticide. Similarly, Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 12
Brahmastra, made from diverse plants, contains insect deterrents, antifungal, antibacterial,
and antiviral compounds, offering strong crop protection. Together, these inputs sustain
fertility while minimizing chemical dependence. In terms of pest control, natural farming
leverages beneficial insects, trap crops, and botanical insecticides to manage pest populations
without resorting to synthetic chemicals.
Integrating livestock into farming systems is vital for enhancing agricultural sustainability.
Maintaining a thriving soil microbiome is crucial for sustaining the health of soil, plants,
animals, and humans. To achieve this, farmlands should remain covered with crops for the
majority of the year. Cultivating a diverse range of crops helps to improve soil fertility.
Minimizing soil disturbance is crucial; therefore, practices like no-till farming or shallow
tillage are recommended. One of the key strategies for maintaining soil organic matter
is fostering a robust microbiome, which can be further stimulated using biostimulants.
Effective pest control should be achieved primarily through improved farming techniques, as
outlined in Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Neem-based solutions, sour buttermilk and
other botanicals will be regularly used to control insect and disease infestations. According
to experienced practitioners, the following core principles are fundamental to successful
natural farming.
• Beejamrit: A seed treatment method that utilizes a mixture of cow dung, cow urine,
and lime-based solutions to enhance seed health.
• Jeevamrit: A natural soil enrichment technique that improves fertility through a
blend of cow urine, dung, jaggery, and pulse flour.
• Mulching: The practice of covering the soil with organic materials such as crop
residues and biomass to retain moisture and improve soil conditions.
• Plant Protection: The use of organic sprays made from natural ingredients to prevent
pests, diseases, and weeds while also supporting soil fertility.
• Whapasa: A method that encourages soil moisture conservation by promoting
earthworm activity, which aids in the formation of water vapour condensation within
the soil.
• Mix cropping/ Inter cropping: This practice involves growing two or more crops
simultaneously on the same piece of land to maximise the use of resources and
enhance biodiversity.
• Cover Crop/ 365 Days Soil Cover/Green Manuring: This involves planting specific
crops to keep the soil covered throughout the year, which protects it from erosion,
improves soil health, and can be incorporated as green manure to boost fertility.
• Minimum Tillage/ Zero Tillage: This approach minimizes or completely avoids
disturbing the soil through ploughing, which helps to preserve soil structure, organic
matter, and beneficial microorganisms. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 13
The process involves spraying of
biological pesticides which prevents from diseases and weed
problems and protects the plant and improves their soil fertility.
Beejamrit
The process involves
treatment of seed using cow dung,
urine and lime before sowing.
Whapasa
The process involves cultivating
aeration in the soil in order to enhance
water vapor condensation.
The process enhances the
fertility of soil using cow dung, flour of
pulses and jaggery concoction.
JeevamritMulching
The process involves creating micro
climate using different mulches with
straw, crop residues & biomass materials.
Plant Protection
COMPONENTS OF NATURAL FARMING
Fig. 1.15: Components of Natural Farming
1.8 Principles of Natural Farming
Natural Farming is recognised as an agroecology-based diversified farming system that
integrates crops, trees, and livestock with functional biodiversity. The core objective of this
approach is to work in harmony with natural ecosystems, optimizing the use of on-farm
resources and minimizing reliance on external inputs. Here are the fundamental principles
that guide the practice of natural farming (Fig. 1.16):
1.8.1 Prohibition of Soil Tillage and Inversion: The practice of tilling or ploughing the
soil shall be minimised. Natural cultivation of the soil is to be facilitated through
the perennial action of plant roots, microorganisms, and burrowing fauna. This
preserves the soil’s natural structure, enhances water infiltration and retention,
prevents erosion, and protects the complex subterranean ecosystem.
1.8.2 Exclusion of Synthetic Fertilizers and Prepared Composts: The application of
all synthetic chemical fertilizers and externally prepared composts is prohibited.
Soil fertility shall be maintained exclusively through on-farm biomass recycling.
This is achieved through practices such as leaving crop residues and other organic
matter on the soil surface to decompose naturally, which enriches the soil over time.
The use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides is strictly forbidden. A
healthy and balanced ecosystem provides inherent control of pests and diseases.
The focus shall be on fostering biodiversity to create a resilient agricultural
environment where natural predators and strong plant vitality mitigate pest and
disease outbreaks.
1.8.3 Integrated Weed Management without Tillage or Herbicides: Weed
management shall be conducted without disturbing soil surface or the use of
chemical herbicides. Weeds are best managed through methods that do not disturb
the soil, such as the application of straw mulch and the cultivation of ground cover
crops, which suppress weed growth while also contributing to soil health. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 14
1.8.4 Non-Pruning of Fruit-Bearing Trees: Fruit trees shall be allowed to grow
according to their natural habit, without artificial pruning. This principle is based
on the observation that natural, unpruned growth leads to healthier, more resilient
trees with a balanced form.
1.8.5 Prioritisation of On-Farm Resource Utilisation and Biomass Recycling:
Emphasis shall be placed on the comprehensive use of on-farm resources. All
organic materials, including crop residues and animal manure, should be recycled
back into the the crop production system. Mulching the soil surface is a critical
practice to protect it, conserve moisture, and create a favourable habitat for soil
microorganisms.
1.8.6 Promotion of Biodiversity and Polyculture Systems: The cultivation of a diverse
range of crops, trees, and the integration of livestock is to be actively promoted.
Monoculture is discouraged in favour of polyculture systems where multiple plant
species are grown in proximity, enhancing the resilience and balance of the farm
ecosystem.
1.8.7 Utilisation of Indigenous and Locally Adapted Seeds: The use of locally
sourced and traditional seeds is mandated. This practice ensures that crop varieties
are well-suited to local climate and soil conditions, thereby contributing to the
preservation of agricultural biodiversity. Reliance on commercially produced
hybrid or genetically modified seeds is to be avoided.
1.8.8 Role of Biodiversity in Natural Farming: Natural Farming systems that integrate
legumes, crop mixtures, and biological inputs significantly enhance rhizosphere
biodiversity, microbial activity, and nutrient uptake efficiency, while reducing
reliance on synthetic fertilisers, e.g., legume intercropping in strawberries (BMC
Plant Biology, 2025). Intercropping with legumes has been demonstrated to
improve crop productivity, reduce input costs, and enhance soil fertility (Frontiers
in Sustainable Food Systems, 2022). Additionally, practices in Southeast
India, characterised by the use of on-farm biomass and mulching, improve soil
quality and crop outcomes compared to both conventional and organic systems
(Agronomy for Sustainable Development, 2023). Such biodiversity-rich systems
promote long-term agroecosystem resilience, foster sustainable nutrient cycling,
and reduce dependency on synthetic inputs.
1.8.9 Integration of Livestock, Agroforestry, and Beekeeping: Integrative farm
systems that combine livestock, trees, crops, and beekeeping offer multiple
ecological and economic benefits essential to natural farming. Livestock provide
manure and urine, which feed soil micro-organisms, enhance organic matter, and
aid in bio-input production. Agroforestry systems, by incorporating multipurpose
native trees, enhance microclimatic stability, increase carbon sequestration, and
continuously supply biomass for mulching and inputs, while also providing
fodder and mitigating heat stress in animals. Beekeeping and maintaining diverse
pollinator communities improves pollination services, increasing crop yields and
quality, especially in orchards and mixed cropping systems. Such integration helps Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 15
close nutrient loops, reduces dependence on external inputs, enhances biodiversity,
mitigates climate risks, and improves income stability for farmers (Dinesha et al.,
2022).
Fig. 1.16: Principles of Natural Farming
(Source: MoA&FW, GoI)
1.9 Cost of Cultivation in Natural v/s Conventional Farming
Reduction in the cost of cultivation is the key factor for incentivising farmers to adopt
natural farming over conventional farming. Reduced cultivation costs result in enhanced
Benefit- Cost (B:C) ratios for farmers (Table 1.2).
Table 1.2: Cost economics of kharif rice cultivation (4
th
year) in 2023 S. No Particulars Natural Farming
Conventional
Farming
Economics of paddy cultivation, without bund extension
1. Yield per acre in quintals 33.75 31.5
2. Minimum Support Price for one
quintal Paddy in Rs.
20402040
3. Gross Income in Rs. 68850 64260
4. Cost of cultivation for Paddy
(excluding costs incurred in bund
establishment)
20850 29120
5. Net Income in Rs. 48000 35140
6. Benefit: Cost Ratio2.3:1 1.2 :1
Economics of Paddy with bund extension
1. Yield per acre in quintals 33.75 31.5 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 16
S. No Particulars Natural Farming
Conventional
Farming
2. Minimum Support Price for one
quintal Paddy in Rs.
20402040
3. Cost of cultivation Rs.
(i) For Paddy
(ii) Bund formation
(iii) Seeds & Seedlings expenses
Total Cost of cultivation
20850
6000
2000
--------
28850
29120
4. Gross Income Rs.
(i) Income from Paddy
(ii) Additional income from the
bund plantations
Total Gross Income Rs.
68850
28050
--------
96900
64260
5. Total Net Income Rs. 68050 35140
6. Benefit: Cost Ratio2.4 :1 1.2 : 1
(Source: RySS)
References & Additional Readings
• Agronomy for Sustainable Development. (2023). Natural farming improves crop yield in SE
India when compared to conventional or organic systems by enhancing soil quality. Agrono-
my for Sustainable Development, 43, 31. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13593-023-00884-x
• BMC Plant Biology. (2025). Biostimulation through natural biological inputs on fruiting,
nutrient availability and rhizosphere microbiome in legume intercropped ‘Sweet Char-
lie’ strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.). BMC Plant Biology. https://doi.org/10.1186/
s12870-025-07017-4
• Dinesha, S., Raj, A., Bhanusree, M. R., Balraju, W., Rakesh, S., Goutham Raj, W., Jha, R. K.,
Neeraj, & Krishna Kumar. (2022). Agroforestry Assisted Natural Farming in India: Chal-
lenges and Implications for Diversification and Restoration of Agroecosystem. International
Journal of Environment and Climate Change, 12(12), 1053-1069.
• Katayama, [et al.]. (2022). Impact of Natural Farming cropping system on rural households
-Evidence from Solan District of Himachal Pradesh, India. Frontiers in Sustainable Food
Systems, 6, 878015. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2022.878015 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 17
CHAPTER 2
Seed Selection
& Treatment Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 18
2.1 Introduction
Seeds are an essential and vital input for sustained agricultural productivity and production
growth since 90 % of food crops are grown from seeds (Schwinn, 1994). The selection
of seeds directly affects the yield. When a seed is sown, microorganisms (such as fungi,
bacteria, and viruses) and soil insects exploit it as a food source. Some microbes/insects
can injure seeds or plants by causing disease, resulting in economic damage to plant stands
and general plants (Taylor & Harman, 1990). In this chapter, you will learn about:
(1) Best practices in seed selection
(2) Various methods of seed treatment in natural farming
2.2 Seed Selection
Using mixed seeds can reduce the market value of crops. It is essential to source seeds from
reliable suppliers to ensure purity, high germination rates, uniformity in size, colour, and
weight, and freedom from seed-borne diseases. The following best practices are recommended
for seed selection
11
(Fig. 2.1.):
(i) Locally adapted seeds are preferable as they are better suited to the specific
environmental conditions.
(ii) Incorporating local seed systems and land races supports agro-biodiversity and
strengthens resilience against drought, pests, and diseases.
(iii) Saving and exchanging indigenous seeds within farmer groups reduces input
costs, enhances self-reliance, and ensures economic sustainability.
(iv) It is recommended to use personally selected or organic, untreated seeds.
(v) Ensure seeds do not originate from neighbouring farms to prevent cross-
contamination.
(vi) Be aware of the breeding characteristics of different crops. Cross-pollinating
species, such as maize, can spread pollen via wind or insects over distances of 1
to 3 km.
(vii) Some seeds can persist in the soil for 5 to 20 years, necessitating precautions to
prevent GM crops from contaminating natural farming land.
11 https://nconf.dac.gov.in/uploads/books_manual/02-Days-Master-Trainer-Training-Module-English.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 19
Fig. 2.1: Comparison Between Healthy and Unhealthy Seeds
2.3 Seed Treatment
Proper seed treatment techniques create a more favourable environment for seed germination
and early plant growth. The purpose of any seed treatment is to improve seed performance
in one or more of the following ways:
Fig. 2.2: Objectives of Seed Treatment
Seed treatment (Fig. 2.2) encompasses both the methods and substances used to enhance
seed health before planting. It involves applying physical, chemical, or biological agents
to seeds to protect them from pathogens, insects, and other pests that could harm seeds,
seedlings, or mature plants. Before discussing these methods, it is necessary to understand
some common seed and seedling diseases. During the sowing stage, several plant diseases
can affect seed viability and seedling development, including:
• Seed Rot: Decay of seeds before they can germinate
• Damping-off and Seedling Blight: Soft rot affecting stem tissues near the soil surface,
often accompanied by water-soaked seedling tissues (Fig. 2.3.). Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 20
Fig. 2.3: Comparison of Healthy Seedling and Damping off Seedling
• Seedling Wilt: Young plants lose firmness and appear droopy or limp.
• Root Rot: Rootlets become water-soaked, brown, and begin to disintegrate (Fig. 2.4).
Fig. 2.4: Root Rot Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 21
• Loose and Covered Smut: Fungal infections affecting small grain crops.
2.3.1 Methods of Seed Treatment
Indigenous methods for seed treatment in India utilise locally available bioresources
and traditional wisdom to prepare seeds for healthy germination and growth. Farmers
often use mixtures like Beejamrit (a blend of cow dung, cow urine, lime, and water)
to coat seeds, which act as natural disinfectants and growth promoters. Other practices
include dusting seeds with ash or powdered neem leaves to deter storage pests or
soaking them in turmeric solution to prevent fungal infections. These techniques
are simple, low-cost, and tailored to local agro-climatic conditions, ensuring seeds
are protected while maintaining their natural vitality. They are discussed below.
(i) Panchagavya-Based Seed Treatment
Panchagavya is an organic concoction used as a potent growth promoter and plant
immunity booster. The name itself is derived from Sanskrit, where ‘Pancha’ means
five and ‘Gavya’ means derived from the cow. It is prepared from a blend of five key
products from the cow: dung, urine, milk, curd (yoghurt), and ghee (clarified butter).
These core ingredients are often mixed with enhancers like jaggery and banana and
allowed to ferment, creating a solution rich in beneficial microorganisms, essential
nutrients, and natural growth regulators. Derived from traditional Indian wisdom,
Panchagavya is a versatile preparation used for seed treatment, as a foliar spray, and
for soil enrichment, aiming to improve seed germination, promote healthy growth,
and increase the plant’s resistance to diseases.
Table 2.1: Panchgavya-Based Seed Treatment
12
S.
No.
Crop
Concentration of
Panchgavya Solution
Time of soaking/submerging
before sowing/planting
1.Maize20 ml in 980 ml of water2 hours before
2.Pearl and finger millet 35 ml in 1 litre of water7-8 hours before
3.Paddy35 ml in 1 litre of water30 hours before
4.Groundnut 30 ml in 1 litre of water
4-6 hours before, followed by
shade drying
5.Vegetable seeds 20 ml in 1 litre of water30 minutes before
6.Lady finger 10-20 ml in 990/980 ml water6 hours before
7.Banana 1.5 litres in 50 litres of water30 minutes before
8.Cardamom 100 ml in 5 litres of water
30 minutes before, followed by
mixing of ash and shade drying
(Source: TNAU)
12 https://agritech.tnau.ac.in/org_farm/orgfarm_farming_practices_treatment_crop_millets.html Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 22
(ii) Beejamrit-Based Seed Treatment
Beejamrit is a microbial mixture prepared from indigenous cow dung, cow
urine, and lime (chuna) (Fig 2.5). It is used to treat seeds, saplings, or other
planting material. All components are mixed together and kept for 24 hours
during which the mixture must be stirred twice daily (morning and evening)
in a clockwise direction to keep the microbes active. After preparation, seeds
are treated with this mixture, dried in the shade (Fig. 2.6), and then sown.
This is an ancient agricultural technique that protects seeds from seed-borne
diseases. The fermented organic solution is rich in beneficial microbes, which
enhance germination capacity and protect against pests or fungal attacks. Benefits
of Beejamrit usage are:
• Protection from seed-borne diseases
• Increased germination rate
• Protection from fungi and pests
• Boosts beneficial soil microbes
Usage: 20 litres of Beejamrit can treat up to 100 kg of seeds.
Method: Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the area, mix them by hand, and then dry
them in the shade before sowing.
Special Note: For pulse crops, only dip the seeds briefly and then dry immediately.
Seed treatment involves coating the seeds in Beejamrit, thoroughly mixing them,
and then drying them before sowing. For leguminous crops with thin seed coats,
quickly dip and dry them to avoid damage.
For the detailed method of preparation of Beejamrit, refer to Chapter 6. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 23
Fig. 2.5: Beejamrit preparation
Fig. 2.6: Seed Treatment using Beejamrit Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 24
References & Additional Readings
• Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems. (n.d.). Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems. Re-
trieved from https://www.ciks.org/
• Subhashini Sridhar, S. Ashok Kumar, R. Abarna Thooyavathy and K. Vijayalakshmi. Seed
Treatment Techniques, Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems (CIKS) Seed Node of the Re-
vitalising Rainfed Agriculture Network.
• Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. (2014, December). Seed (organic groundnut seed
practices). TNAU Agritech Portal. https://agritech.tnau.ac.in/org_farm/orgfarm_prac_agri_
groundnut_seed.html
• Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. (2014, November). Organic farming practices for
groundnut: Seed. Retrieved from
• Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. (n.d.). Organic farming practices for paddy: Seed. Re-
trieved from https://agritech.tnau.ac.in/org_farm/orgfarm_prac_agri_paddy_seed.html Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 25
CHAPTER 3
Water Conservation
Methods in Natural
Farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 26
3.1 Introduction
In this chapter, the focus is on water conservation methods in natural farming, with special
emphasis on biological approaches that harmonise with the landscape. For areas with a gentle
slope of around 2%, agronomic and agroforestry practices offer an effective and sustainable
solution. By keeping the soil surface covered through crops, mulches, or tree canopies,
these methods reduce the direct impact of raindrops, enhance water infiltration, and improve
the soil’s capacity to retain moisture. This not only reduces runoff and prevents erosion
but also ensures better water availability for crops. Compared to structural interventions,
these techniques are low-cost, eco-friendly, and often more efficient in the long run. The
following sections outline key agronomic strategies that help conserve both soil and water,
while supporting resilient and productive farming systems.
Crop diversification is recognised as a strategy to improve water resilience in agriculture.
By promoting the cultivation of less water-intensive crops through crop rotation, mix
crop, or intercropping, water resources can be conserved. The Mera Pani-Meri Virasat
Scheme in Haryana exemplifies the implementation of crop diversification to ensure water
conservation. The scheme aims to save a substantial amount of water through sustainable
agricultural practices.
3.2 Contour farming
Contour farming involves planting crops in horizontal rows along the natural contours of a
slope. Its applications are mainly in the hilly agroecosystems and sloppy lands (Fig. 3.1).
All operations are performed along the contour line.
The success of these practices depends on rainfall patterns, soil characteristics, and land
topography. The benefits of this are as below:
3.2.1 Runoff and erosion management: Constructing ridges and furrows along the
contour slows down water flow, minimizing runoff and preventing soil erosion.
Additionally, it helps retain essential nutrients, thereby reducing their loss from
the soil.
Figure 3.1: Contour Farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 27
3.2.2 Soil Moisture Conservation: In regions with low rainfall, contour farming
enhances water infiltration, promoting moisture retention. In high rainfall areas, it
prevents excessive soil erosion and runoff.
3.2.3 Soil Fertility and Crop Yield Improvement: Preserves soil nutrients and
moisture, contributing to better crop growth and productivity.
A step-by-step guide to execute contour farming while doing NF is given below.
• Preparation: Mark contour lines using an A-frame or laser level.
• Recommended Crops:
»Contour Bunds: Vetiver grass, napier, citronella (deep-rooted, prevent erosion).
»Main Crop Area: Finger millet, foxtail millet, pigeon pea.
• Management: Keep bunds vegetated year-round to act as natural barriers.
3.3 Choice of Crops
Appropriate crop selection is crucial for achieving sustainable and productive agricultural
systems. Natural farmers prioritise crops well-suited to natural production methods,
promoting biodiversity and enhancing soil health. Crop selection is crucial for soil and
water conservation, influenced by factors such as rainfall intensity, market demand, climate,
and farmer resources. The various effects of crop selection are discussed below:
3.3.1 Biomass, Canopy Cover, and Root System: Crops with dense biomass, broad
canopy cover, and deep root systems help shield the soil from heavy rainfall,
reducing runoff and preventing soil and nutrient loss.
3.3.2 Crops that Contribute to Erosion: Tall or widely spaced crops like sorghum,
maize, and pearl millet leave the soil exposed, making it more susceptible to
erosion.
3.3.3 Crops that Prevent Erosion: Close-growing crops with thick canopy cover and
strong root systems, such as cowpea, green gram, black gram, and groundnut, are
ideal for minimizing soil erosion.
3.3.4 Optimal Seed Rate: Using a higher seed rate promotes denser canopy formation,
providing better soil coverage and protection.
Selecting crops based on water requirements, root depth, and sunlight preference ensures
optimal water use. The guidelines for the selection of crops are given in Table 3.1:
Table 3.1: Crop Suitability as Per Water and Light Conditions
Crop Type Examples
Water
Requirement
Root System Sun Preference
Low Water Crops
Millets (Bajra,
Ragi), Pulses (Green
gram, Black gram)
Low
Shallow to
medium
Full sun
Shade-Loving
Crops
Turmeric,
Ginger, Colocasia
Medium Shallow Partial shade Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 28
Crop Type Examples
Water
Requirement
Root System Sun Preference
Shadow-
Sensitive Crops
Onion,
Garlic, Mustard
Medium-HighShallow Full sun
Guidelines:
• Avoid paddy and sugarcane in drought-prone areas unless using SRI (System of
Rice Intensification) with mulching.
• Intermix deep-rooted and shallow-rooted crops to utilise water efficiently.
3.4 Crop Rotation
Crop rotation is the practice of growing different types of crops in succession on the same
field to gain benefits for soil and crop systems (Fig. 3.2). The beneficial effects of this are
a decrease in the incidence of weeds, insects, and plant diseases. Besides, it also enhances
the soil’s physical, chemical, and biological properties. While monocropping exhausts the
soil of its nutrients and depletes its fertility, crop rotation helps prevent this from happening.
The use of leguminous crops in rotation practices is commonly known (Fig. 3.3). The
advantages of including legumes include reduced soil erosion, restored fertility, improved
soil and water conservation, and nitrogen supplementation through nitrogen fixation.
Incorporating crop residue is often beneficial in the field as it improves organic matter content
in the soil and enhances overall soil health. Besides, it also reduces water requirements.
High canopy cover crops are also used in this method, as they help sustain soil fertility,
suppress weed growth, decrease pest and disease infestation, and increase input use efficiency
and system productivity. It also helps reduce soil erosion.
Fig. 3.2: Crop Rotation Model Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 29
Fig 3.3: Leguminous Crops for Sustainable Crop Rotations
Crops’ rotation conserves soil moisture, breaks pest cycles, and improves soil structure.
Example Rotation: Maize → Cowpea → Sorghum → Green manure
Rotation Principles:
• Alternate deep-rooted crops (e.g., cotton, pigeon pea) with shallow-rooted crops
(e.g., mung bean, green gram).
• Introduce short-duration legumes after water-intensive crops to replenish soil
nitrogen and retain moisture.
• Rotate crops with different growth periods to prevent excessive water demand at one
time.
3.5 Cover Crops
Cover crops are close-growing crops with high canopy density, grown to protect the soil
against erosion. Cover crops entail benefits such as soil protection from erosion by providing
ground cover. Effective cover crops develop a canopy that intercepts raindrops, reducing
soil surface exposure to erosion. Legume crops produce better biomass compared to row
crops, offering enhanced soil protection. They also provide better protection against runoff
and soil loss compared to cultivated fallow and sorghum crops. Some examples of effective
cover crops are cowpea, green gram, black gram, and groundnut. The guidelines for selecting
cover crops are as follows:
3.5.1 Timing
• Sow cover crops immediately after harvest of main crops or between rows of
orchard trees. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 30
• In multi-cropping systems, choose short-duration cover crops to avoid
competition with the main crop.
3.5.2 Selection Criteria
• Legumes: Cowpea, Green gram, Black gram, Groundnut, Sunhemp, Dhaincha
– for nitrogen fixation and biomass.
• Non-legumes: Sorghum or millet residues – for additional mulch, especially
in drylands.
• Consider root depth, canopy density, and water requirements for your field
conditions.
3.5.3 Planting Methods
• Broadcasting: Scatter seeds evenly over the field, then lightly rake or press
them into soil.
• Row sowing: Plant along existing field rows for better spacing and growth
uniformity.
• Intercropping: Plant cover crops between rows of main crops to protect soil
without affecting main crop yield.
3.5.4 Management Practices
• Maintain cover crops until full canopy development (30–50 days).
• Incorporate biomass into soil after flowering for green manure.
• Avoid burning residues; instead, chop and mulch to improve soil moisture and
microbial activity.
3.5.5 Monitoring and Maintenance
• Check for pests and diseases; most cover crops are hardy, but early interven-
tion is better.
• Ensure uniform growth to maximise soil coverage.
Table 3.2 gives a summary of few cover crops with their applications.
Table 3.2: Choice of Cover Crops and Benefits
Cover Crop TypeDuration, daysBenefits Ideal Use
Cowpea Legume 45-60
N-fixation, biomass,
erosion control
Post-harvest
or intercrop
Green gram Legume 30-45
Quick biomass,
moisture retention
Between rows,
small fields Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 31
Cover Crop TypeDuration, daysBenefits Ideal Use
Black gram Legume 30-50
N-fixation,
suppresses weeds
Short-
duration cover crop
Groundnut Legume 60-70
High biomass,
erosion control
Dryland fields
Source: ICAR (2011); FAO (2017).
13
3.6 Intercropping
Intercropping involves cultivating two or more crops simultaneously in the same field
with a definite or alternate row pattern (Fig. 3.4). The benefits of intercropping are better
soil coverage (thus, reducing direct impact of raindrops), erosion control and nutrient
management (crops with different rooting patterns help in efficient nutrient use and prevent
nutrient competition). The key considerations to be considered in intercropping are:
• Time and Spatial Dimensions: Intercropping involves both time-based and spatial
planning.
• Erosion Permitting and Resisting Crops: Should be intercropped to optimise soil
protection.
• Rooting Patterns: The crops should have different rooting patterns to maximise soil
and nutrient benefits.
Fig. 3.4: Intercropping Practice
The different types of intercropping techniques are discussed below. Fig. 3.5 shows an
example of intercropping.
• Row Intercropping: Crops are grown in specific rows.
• Strip Intercropping: Crops are grown in strips.
• Relay Intercropping: Different crops are sown at different times to overlap their
growing periods.
13 ICAR. Green manuring and cover crops. https://krishi.icar.gov.in/jspui/handle/123456789/2276
FAO. Cover crops and crop residues for soil health. https://www.fao.org/3/i8210en/I8210EN.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 32
With the above key considerations and techniques, Table 3.3 summarises a few examples
for crop selection in natural farming intercropping.
Table 3.3: Crop Selection in Natural Farming Intercropping
Main CropIntercrop
Rooting
Pattern
Sunlight
Requirement
Benefits
Maize Cowpea
Deep +
Shallow
Full sun
Nitrogen fixation, soil
cover
Finger
millet
Sunhemp
Medium +
Deep
Full sun
Green manure, erosion
control
SorghumGreen gram
Deep +
Shallow
Full sun
Soil fertility, moisture
conservation
Banana Turmeric
Deep +
Shallow
Partial shade
Efficient land use,
soil cover
Source: ICAR (2014); FAO (2013).
14
Fig. 3.5: Different Types of Intercrops
3.7 Strip Cropping
Cultivating various crops in alternating strips across a field is called strip cropping. It involves
growing erosion-resistant crops with deep root systems and high canopy density. These
crops protect soil from raindrop impact, reduce runoff velocity, and increase concentration
time, resulting in higher soil moisture and crop production. The benefits of strip cropping
are primarily for runoff and erosion control, as it reduces runoff velocity and checks erosion
14 Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Cropping systems and intercropping practices in Indian agriculture. https://icar.org.in/
content/cropping-systems
Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). (2013). Intercropping for sustainable crop production. FAO, Rome. https://www.fao.org/3/
i2215e/i2215e.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 33
processes. This way, even nutrient loss from the field can be minimised, and soil fertility
is maintained. Strip cropping is exemplified in the five-layer model in natural farming,
which promotes diverse and resilient cropping systems (Fig. 3.6.).
Fig. 3.6: Strip Cropping
The different types of strip cropping are discussed below.
3.7.1 Contour Strip Cropping
This method involves planting alternating strips of crops that either allow or resist
erosion along the natural contours of a slope. The advantages of this technique are
that it reduces the force of raindrops hitting the soil, preventing erosion. Additionally,
it shortens the slope length and slows water movement, thereby decreasing soil
loss and managing runoff. It enhances rainwater absorption into the soil profile,
improving soil moisture levels.
3.7.2 Field strip cropping
Field Strip Cropping involves growing crops in parallel strips across uniform slopes,
but not on exact contours. It is suitable for farms with regular slopes that are not
suitable for contour strip cropping. With respect to soils, it is ideal for soils with high
infiltration rates, where contour strip cropping may not be practical. The benefits of
this technique include soil conservation (as it reduces soil erosion by dividing the
field into manageable strips) and water management (it enhances water infiltration
and reduces runoff).
3.7.3 Wind Strip Cropping
Wind Strip Cropping involves planting tall, close-growing crops in alternately
arranged, straight, long, relatively narrow, parallel strips. These strips are laid out
across the direction of the prevailing wind, regardless of the contour. The benefits of
this technique are wind protection, wherein tall crops act as windbreaks, protecting
the soil and shorter crops from wind erosion. Besides it helps in soil conservation by Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 34
reducing erosion and efficient land use as alternating strips optimise the use of land
for different crop types. The crops cultivated using this technique are usually tall-
growing crops, such as maize, pearl millet, and sorghum, as well as short-growing
crops that are compatible and grow close to the ground.
3.7.4 Permanent or Temporary Buffer Strip Cropping
Buffer Strip Cropping involves growing permanent strips of grasses, legumes, or
a mixture of both in highly eroded areas and areas that do not fit into the regular
crop rotation. The benefits of this technique are erosion control, as the vegetation
in buffer strips helps prevent soil erosion by wind and water. Besides, it enhances
soil structure, organic matter, and reduces nutrient runoff from the soil. It provides a
habitat for beneficial organisms, contributing to natural pest control. The applications
of this technique are particularly useful in highly eroded areas or those prone to
erosion. For example, in steep slopes, it is often used with contour strip cropping.
3.7.5 Crop Selection in Natural Farming Strip Cropping
Table 3.4 summarizes various crop selection permutations for strip cropping in
natural farming.
Table 3.4: Crop Selection for Natural Farming Strip Cropping
Strip TypeMain Crop Companion StripRooting Pattern Benefits
Contour
Finger
millet
Cowpea
Medium +
Shallow
Soil cover, nitrogen fixation,
erosion control
Field Okra Sunhemp
Shallow + Deep
Fertility enhancement,
runoff reduction
Wind Sorghum GliricidiaDeep + Deep
Wind protection,
moisture retention
Buffer Banana
Marigold +
Cowpea
Deep + Shallow
Biodiversity, pest control,
erosion protection
Source: ICAR (2014); FAO (2013).
3.8 Mulching
Mulching involves covering the soil surface with live crops or straw (dead plant biomass)
(Fig. 3.7). It is a very important technique with multifaceted benefits such as moisture
conservation, increased water infiltration, soil temperature regulation around plant roots,
erosion prevention, soil structure improvement, runoff reduction, and weed growth control.
It also prevents the formation of a hard crust after rain. It creates a ‘dust mulch’ on the soil
surface using blade harrows or intercultural operations. This breaks the continuity of soil
moisture capillary tubes, reducing evaporation losses. The applications of this are usually
in high-rainfall regions to minimise soil and water loss and in low-rainfall areas to conserve
soil moisture. The different types of mulch are discussed below. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 35
Fig. 3.7: Mulching
3.8.1 Crop Residue Mulch
The materials required for this type of mulching are dried vegetation, farm stubble,
and dried biomass waste (Fig. 3.8). It protects the soil by covering and shielding
it from severe sunlight, cold, and rain. It also provides seed protection by saving it
from birds, insects, and animals. Thereby, it conserves moisture and enhances soil
fertility, along with protecting soil organisms and supporting their growth. Crop
residue mulch suppresses weed growth and also maintains soil temperature.
Fig. 3.8: Crop Residue Mulch Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 36
3.8.2 Live Mulch
Crop residue mulching can also be done with live mulch. Live mulching involves
developing multi-cropping or inter-cropping patterns of short-duration crops within
the rows of a main crop (Fig. 3.9). For example, combine monocotyledons (monocots)
and dicotyledons (dicots) in the same field to provide a full range of essential nutrients.
Monocot such as wheat and rice provide nutrients such as potash, phosphate, and
sulphur whereas dicots such as pulses are nitrogen-fixing plants that enhance soil
nitrogen levels.
Fig. 3.9: Live Mulch
Timing of Mulching: Apply mulch before or at the start of the rainy season when the soil
is most susceptible to erosion.
Thickness: Keep the mulch layer moderate to allow seeds and seedlings to grow through
it. In vegetable gardens, wait until young plants are stronger before applying mulch to
prevent any negative effects from decomposition.
Application Methods:
• If mulching before sowing or planting, maintain a thin layer to ensure seedlings can
emerge.
• For established crops, apply mulch after soil preparation.
• Mulch can be placed between rows, around individual plants (especially for trees),
or evenly across the field.
Some mulching practices in NF are summarised in Table 3.5. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 37
Table 3.5: Mulching Practices in NF
Main crop Mulch type SourceBenefits
Paddy (SRI) Dry Mulch Paddy straw
Moisture retention,
weed suppression
Maize Green MulchCowpea, Dhaincha
Soil fertility, moisture
retention
Vegetables
(Tomato, Brinjal)
Live Mulch Cowpea Nitrogen fixation, soil cover
Orchard Trees
(Mango, Banana)
Crop Residue
Mulch
Groundnut or
sorghum residues
Soil cover, erosion control,
organic matter
3.9 Micro Irrigation in Natural Farming
Micro-irrigation encompasses systems like drip and sprinkler irrigation, which deliver
water directly to the plant root zone, minimizing evaporation and runoff. In India, where
agriculture accounts for approximately 80% of water usage, adopting micro-irrigation is
crucial for enhancing water-use efficiency and ensuring sustainable crop production (NITI
Aayog, 2023).
3.9.1 Drip Irrigation
The scientific principles of drip irrigation are as follows:
(i) Water Use Efficiency: Drip irrigation systems (Fig. 3.10) can achieve
water-use efficiencies exceeding 90%, compared to 40–50% in traditional
flood irrigation methods.
15
(ii) Soil Health: By delivering water directly to the root zone, drip irrigation
minimizes soil erosion and preserves soil structure, promoting healthier
root development.
(iii) Nutrient Management: The integration of fertigation allows for precise
application of nutrients, enhancing nutrient uptake and reducing leaching
losses.
15 Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI). (2016). Water management technologies for sustainable agriculture. New Delhi: IARI. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 38
Fig. 3.9: Drip Irrigation
Studies have shown that drip irrigation can increase crop yields by up to 45% in water-
stressed regions of Uttar Pradesh, with significant improvements in crops like sugarcane
and vegetables. Scientific evidence indicates that drip irrigation improves crop yields and
water productivity and reduces irrigation water use relative to conventional irrigation
systems, particularly in water-stressed regions (Yang et al., 2023)
16
. Table 3.6 summarizes
some crop applications in NF for drip irrigation.
Table 3.6: Drip Irrigated Crops Grown Under NF
Crop Type Recommended UseBenefits of NF Practices
Vegetables
Tomato, Brinjal, Chilli,
Okra etc.
Efficient water use, reduced weed growth,
enhanced nutrient uptake
Fruits
Banana, Mango, Papaya,
Citrus etc.
Supports canopy growth, facilitates
mulching with residues
High-Value
Crops
Capsicum, Cucumber,
Strawberry, Herbs etc.
Reduces labour, enhances uniform growth,
and prevents stress during dry spells
3.9.2 Sprinkler Irrigation
The scientific principles that govern sprinkler irrigation technologies are given below:
(i) Uniform Distribution: Sprinklers provide even coverage, reducing water
wastage and promoting uniform crop growth (Fig. 3.11).
(ii) Adaptability: Suitable for undulating terrains, making it versatile for var-
ious field conditions.
16 Yang, P., et al. (2023). Review of drip irrigation impacts on crop yield and water use efficiency. Water, 15(9), 1733. https://doi.org/10.3390/w15091733 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 39
(iii) Water Conservation: Can reduce water usage by 20-40% compared to
flood irrigation methods (Just Agriculture, 2021).
Fig 3.11: Sprinkler Irrigation
Sprinkler irrigation can increase crop yields by up to 30% in regions like Rajasthan,
where water scarcity is prevalent. The adoption of sprinkler systems in semi-arid regions
has led to a 35% reduction in water usage, thereby improving water availability for other
agricultural activities (NITI Aayog, 2023). Table 3.7 summarizes some crop applications
in NF for sprinkler irrigation.
Table 3.7. Sprinkler irrigation in crops grown under NF
Crop Type CropsBenefits of NF Practices
Field
Crops
Maize, Millets, Pulses
Maintains soil moisture, reduces evaporation, and
enhances nutrient uptake
Vegetables
Cabbage, Cauliflower,
Leafy greens
Even growth minimizes water stress, integrates
with mulching
Orchards Citrus, Guava, Papaya
Soil moisture conservation improves fruit set,
supports cover crops under trees Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 40
References & Additional Readings
• Directorate of Agriculture, ATMA & SAMETI. (n.d.). Lecture Outline Framework: Natural
Farming- Curriculum. Gandhinagar, Gujarat
• NITI Aayog. (2023). EFFICIENCY OF MICRO-IRRIGATION IN ECONOMIZ -
ING WATER USE IN INDIA: LEARNING FROM POTENTIAL AND UNDER
EXPLORED STATES (Report). Government of India. Retrieved from https://www.niti.
gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-03/Efficiency%20of%20Micro-Irrigation%20in%20econo-
mizing%20water%20use%20in%20India%20Learning%20from%20potential%20and%20
under%20explored%20states.pdf (niti.gov.in)
• TNN. (2025, June 12). Drip & sprinkler to boost groundwater recharge in state. The Times
of India. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/drip-sprinkler-to-
boost-groundwater-recharge-in-state/articleshow/121787404.cms Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 41
CHAPTER 4
Soil Health
Management
Through Natural
Farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 42
4.1 Introduction
Soil is a fundamental resource for food production and a crucial asset for farmers. The
success of farming relies on soil quality, as it supplies water and vital nutrients to crops.
When soil is rich and healthy, combined with adequate water and sunlight, it supports
productive farming and helps achieve desired yields. Natural Farming treats soil as a
living, multifunctional system, where soil organic matter, or humus, serves as a critical
reservoir supporting nutrient retention, water-holding capacity, and soil structure (FAO,
2015). Incorporating farmyard manure or compost significantly enhances microbial activity
and diversity, thereby increasing soil resilience and nutrient cycling through the activation
of indigenous microbes (Semenov et al., 2021). Long-term use of organic amendments
(e.g., FYM applied at ≥15 t/ha) markedly increases soil organic carbon, dissolved organic
carbon, and key nutrient pools under pearl millet–wheat rotations (Sheoran et al., 2025).
Soil pH, a key determinant of nutrient availability, can be effectively managed using natural
amendments: lime in highly acidic soils-and manure or straw in moderately acidic soils-not
only raise pH by 12-17%, but also improve cation exchange capacity, organic matter, and
crop yield (Zhang et al., 2023). A balanced soil ecosystem, therefore, emerges from the
synergy of organic carbon enrichment, microbial vitality, and pH correction, all achieved
without synthetic inputs.
Indian Natural Farming experiments have reported measurable improvements in soil health
parameters. ICAR–NAARM field studies under Zero Budget Natural Farming in Andhra
Pradesh recorded an increase of 8–21% in soil organic carbon, 13–27% higher microbial
biomass carbon, and significantly higher soil enzymatic activity compared to conventional
farming systems. Similarly, long-term NF trials in soybean–maize and wheat–mustard
systems reported 1.3–1.8 times higher populations of beneficial soil microbes and improved
soil aggregation and moisture retention under Natural Farming practices.
17
Soil studies
18
in soybean-maize and wheat-mustard systems show that Natural Farming
supports a rich, balanced microbial community. Beneficial bacteria such as Clostridium,
Brevundimonas, Sphingomonas, Bacillus, Streptomyces, and Geobacter are found in higher
numbers under NF. These microbes play many important roles: Clostridium and Geobacter
help in carbon cycling and decomposition, Azoarcus and Anaeromyxobacter support biological
nitrogen fixation, while Sphingomonas and Brevundimonas suppress soil-borne pathogens.
Hydrogenophaga and Sorangium contribute to detoxification by breaking down harmful
substances. Bacillus and Streptomyces act as natural biocontrol agents against pests and
diseases. A special feature of Natural Farming is that no single harmful microbe is allowed
to dominate. Instead, the soil is filled with a wide variety of good microbes, keeping the
system balanced and stable. This evenness enhances the soil’s strength, fertility, and long-
term productivity. In simple terms, Natural Farming creates a living soil where millions of
tiny workers constantly support the crop. This natural support system reduces the need for
17 ICAR–NAARM & NITI Aayog (2021). Adoption of Natural Farming and its Effect on Crop Yield and Soil Health. https://www.niti.gov.in/
sites/default/files/2021-03/NaturalFarmingProjectReport-ICAR-NAARM.pdf
Government of Andhra Pradesh & FAO (2022). Agroecological transitions: Community Managed Natural Farming in Andhra Pradesh.
https://www.fao.org/family-farming/detail/en/c/1629947/
18 All India Network Programme on Natural Farming (AINP-NF), ICAR-Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research, Modipuram, Indian
Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). (2025). Natural farming research status and future strategy. ICAR-IIFSR, Modipuram. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 43
chemical fertilizers and pesticides while keeping the soil resilient, healthy, and sustainable
for future generations of farmers.
4.2 Soil Management
The application of operations, practices, and treatments to protect soil and enhance its
performance, including soil fertility and mechanics is known as Soil Management. Key
components of soil management are soil conservation, soil amendment and optimal soil
health. Soil management is tailored to the specific conditions of each site, including
variations in tillage and inputs based on soil conditions and available resources is called
site- specific management.
Practice of soil management includes seedbed preparation, weed management and
sustainability. Soil management can potentially lower or optimise production costs within an
individual farm and assist in adjustments according to soil conditions, such as soil texture,
moisture content, and soil pH, contributing to increased yields at reduced unit costs.
Natural farmers using conservation and minimum tillage can adjust tillage practices to
reduce soil disturbance, and adjustments are made according to soil conditions, promoting
soil health and stability.
4.2.1 PMDS/ Pre-season Dry Sowing (PSDS) Methods
Pre Monsoon Dry Sowing (PMDS) is a process of growing diversified crops during
the off-season to keep the land covered with living roots so that microbes stay
active for 365 days (Fig. 4.1). Over a period of time, the project is working towards
ensuring the conversion of all PMDS NF practitioners into growing crops all round
the clock, as a 365-day green cover (365 DGC). Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 44
Fig 4.1: Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing in Rainfed Areas
In all crops, except paddy, poly-cropping (15-20%) is being widely encouraged, in
addition to the main crop (80-85%)
19
. The concept of PMDS graduated from an
initially practised Navadhanya (9-12) mode, to a very diverse 30-plus crop species
(comprising all major crop groups such as Cereals, Pulses, Millets, Oilseeds, Spices &
Condiments, Vegetables- Leafy, Tubers, Creepers & Others) being supplied together
now, as a seed kit. The seed compositions are worked out for different districts based
on the availability of seeds. The seed kit comprises 30-35 types of seeds, 12-13 kg
costs about Rs. 1100 required for one acre. They are sown before monsoons with:
• Residual moisture (rainfed black soil) of preceding rabi crop (one week before
harvest)
• Residual moisture (Irrigated system) of preceding rabi crop (one week before
harvest)
The above-mentioned seeds are broadcast one week before the harvest of the main
crop. During harvest, they are trampled into the soil, and wherever possible, a 1–2-
inch mulch is provided. The ideal mulch material is observed to be groundnut shells,
followed by crop residues, and then paddy straw (less preferable).
The offseason rains will help sustain life wherever feasible. Jeevamrit at 1-2% can
be sprayed at least for part of the land. If the plants survive beyond 25 days, the
benefits of microbial activity will accrue. If the irrigation facility is available, life-
saving irrigation may be provided. With climate emergencies and the increasing
frequency of global warming, the occurrence of offseason rain has increased manifold.
19 Devvrat, A. (2023). Natural farming; University Publication No. GNFOAU:1:2023:1000. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural
University. 1-174 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 45
In bone-dry soils, PMDS seed should be pelletised and sown. The process of
Palletisation is explained in the videos enclosed as a hyperlink. Efforts to ensure
the survival of plants as long as possible till on onset of monsoons should be
continued as above
The PMDS crop foliage is being utilised in 2 distinct methods-
(i) Incorporation of PMDS crop directly into the soil prior to the sowing of the
main crop (7 to 10 days gap)
(ii) Utilisation of PMDS crop foliage as fodder and mere incorporation of crop
roots
Under both systems of PMDS, in the first crop of kharif Paddy, yields are found to
be on par with conventional methods, i.e., a chemical mode saving of ₹7,000 to ₹
10,000 per acre.
The following salient biometric observations have come up in farmers’ field where the
concept of Navadhanya (PMDS) has been adopted continuously for more than 2 years
• Significantly increase in root-shoot ratio (0.312-PMDS, chemical-0.242).
• Increase in the number of beneficial insects and reduction of harmful insects
due to diversified seed mix.
• Reduction in weeds in comparison with the conventional method.
• Highest Cost-Benefit ratio in the PMDS incorporated field compared to the
chemical field.
• It was noted that there were incremental yield increases in paddy in the
adoption of PMDS practice from 1
st
year to 4
th
year.
Several other benefits have also been observed by PMDS practitioners:
• Reduction in the cost of cultivation on account of reduced application of
fertilisers and pesticides.
• Reduction in Pest and disease incidence.
• PMDS crop became resistant to lodging even in heavy rains.
• Reduction in the number of irrigations.
• Increase in yield with a higher benefit-cost ratio.
• Additional income from leafy vegetables in addition to self-consumption.
• Increase in the quantity and fat content of milk due to the use of PMDS as
fodder for the cattle.
• Improvement in cattle health.
• Increase in soil carbon content. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 46
A detailed study of the various soil health enriching inoculants such as Jeevamrit, Ghanjeevamrit,
etc. can be found in Chapter 6 along with their applications and methods for usage.
References & Additional Readings
• BMC Plant Biology. (2025). Organic manure and fertilizer N management strategies im-
prove soil health at different growth stages of pearl millet under pearl millet-wheat sequence.
BMC Plant Biology, 25, 117. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12870-025-06128-2
• Brady, N., & Weil, R. (2008). The nature and properties of soils (14th ed.). Upper Saddle
River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
• FAO. (2015). The importance of soil organic matter. Food and Agriculture Organisation of
the United Nations. Retrieved from http://www.fao.org/3/a0100e/a0100e05.htm
• Gugino, B. K., Idowu, O. J., Schindelbeck, R. R., van Es, H. M., Moebius-Clune, B. N.,
Wolfe, D. W., . . . Abawi, G. S. (2009). Cornell soil health assessment training manual (2.0
ed.). Ithaca, NY: Cornell University.
• Jaswal, R., Sandal, S. K., Sahu, K. K., & Sharma, A. (2022). Effect of tillage on growth and
productivity of rainfed maize grown with Zero Budget Natural Farming system in Himachal
Pradesh. Himachal Journal of Agricultural Research, 48(01), 37–43.
• Katayama, S., et al. (2022). Impact of Natural Farming cropping system on rural house-
holds-Evidence from Solan District of Himachal Pradesh, India. Frontiers in Sustainable
Food Systems, 6, 878015. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2022.878015
• Magdoff, F., & van Es, H. (2009). Building soils for better crops: Sustainable soil manage-
ment (3rd ed., Handbook Series No. 10). Beltsville, MD: Sustainable Agriculture Network.
• Semenov, M. V., Krasnov, G. S., Semenov, V. M., Ksenofontova, N., Zinyakova, N. B., &
van Bruggen, A. H. (2021). Does fresh farmyard manure introduce surviving microbes into
soil or activate soil-borne microbiota?. Journal of Environmental Management, 294, 113018.
• Sheoran, S., Prakash, D., Raj, D., Yadav, P. K., Singh, R., Gupta, R. K., ... & Khan, S. (2025).
Organic manure and fertilizer N management strategies improve soil health at different
growth stages of pearl millet under pearl millet-wheat sequence. BMC Plant Biology, 25(1),
117.
• Tugel, A., Lewandowski, A., & Happe-vonArb, D. (Eds.). (2000). Soil biology primer (Rev.
ed.). Ankeny, IA: Soil and Water Conservation Society.
• Zhang, S., Zhu, Q., de Vries, W., Ros, G. H., Chen, X., Muneer, M. A., ... & Wu, L. (2023).
Effects of soil amendments on soil acidity and crop yields in acidic soils: A world-wide me-
ta-analysis.  Journal of Environmental Management, 345, 118531. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.
jenvman.2023.118531 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 47
CHAPTER 5
Pest and Disease
Management Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 48
5.1 Introduction
Pest management focuses on cultivating healthy crops that can naturally withstand pest and
disease pressures. Natural farming regulates pest populations through natural processes,
while the use of locally adapted crop varieties further reduces the risk of infestation. Soil
fertility plays an essential role, as balanced nutrient levels and suitable pH strengthen plant
defences against infections and favourable climatic conditions, adequate water supply and
optimal temperatures support plant health. Practices such as maintaining crop diversity,
improving soil health, and managing water resources work together to create resilient
farming systems that minimise the occurrence of pests and diseases without relying on
synthetic pesticides.
5.2 Prevention
Natural farming emphasises a proactive and preventative approach to pest and disease
management, focusing on creating resilient agricultural ecosystems rather than reacting
to outbreaks. This methodology begins with the foundational selection of suitable plant
varieties that are well-adapted to local environmental conditions and exhibit natural resistance
to prevalent pests and diseases. The use of carefully inspected healthy seeds and planting
materials is crucial to prevent the introduction of pathogens.
A cornerstone of this approach is the implementation of diverse cropping systems, such
as mixed cropping and regular crop rotation, which disrupts pest and disease cycles and
encourages a habitat for beneficial insects. Furthermore, practices like green manuring and
the use of cover crops enhance soil biological activity and fertility.
Central to this preventative strategy is the meticulous management of soil health. This
includes the application of moderate fertilisation to promote steady, strong plant growth and
increasing soil organic matter to boost beneficial microorganisms that suppress pathogenic
fungi. Appropriate soil cultivation methods and effective water management further contribute
to maintaining optimal soil conditions. The conservation and promotion of natural enemies
of pests is another key strategy to maintain ecological balance. Tactical measures, such as
selecting the optimal planting time, ensuring sufficient spacing between plants to improve
aeration, and diligently removing infected plant parts and residues, are vital for preventing
the spread and recurrence of diseases.
5.3 Monitoring of Pests, Insects and Diseases
Effective management of weeds, illnesses, and pests (Fig. 5.1) starts with routine monitoring.
Information about the pests, diseases, and weeds in the area, village, or agricultural fields,
as well as the harm they do, is required to manage them. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 49
Fig. 5.1: Pest Surveillance
5.3.1 Pest Attack on Crops
Effective pest management begins with the correct identification of the causal agent.
Crop pests can be broadly classified into several major categories based on their
biological nature and the damage they cause. The typical signs of pest attacks on
crop plants are described in Table 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3.
Table 5.1: Types of Crop Pests
Pest TypeDescription
Insects
• Biting and chewing pests: caterpillars, weevils
• Piercing and sucking pests: aphids, psyllids
• Boring pests: borer, leaf miner
MitesTiny pests that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
NematodesMicroscopic pests that mainly attack plant roots.
Insects can be further categorised by their behaviour and visibility, which directly influences
how they are scouted and managed in the field. Understanding these characteristics helps
farmers to develop more effective monitoring strategies. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 50
Table 5.2: Characteristics of Insects
Type of PreyExamples
Slow-Movingcaterpillars
Fast-Movingfruit flies
Hiddenstem borer
Easy to Observecaterpillars, weevils
Recognizing the specific signs of damage on a crop is crucial for identifying the pest
responsible. This table outlines the common visual symptoms that correspond to infestations
by various types of pests.
Table 5.3: Signs of Pest Damage
PestSymptoms
Caterpillar or Weevil Leaves with holes or missing parts.
AphidCurled leaves.
Fruit Fly LarvaeDamaged or rotten fruits.
Stem Borer LarvaeWithering plants.
Borer AttackBranches or trunks with holes.
Mite Infestation Mites cause leaves and fruits to become yellowish.
Nematode Infestation
Nematodes attack plant roots, causing plants to turn yellow,
wither, and die.
5.3.2 Disease Attacks on Crop Plants
The various causes of crop diseases are summarised below:
• Fungi: Responsible for an estimated two-thirds of infectious plant diseases. This
includes:
»White and true rusts, smuts, needle casts, leaf curls, mildew, sooty moulds,
and anthracnose.
»Most leaf, fruit, flower spots, cankers, blights, wilts, scabs, roots, stems, fruit,
and wood rots.
»Effects: Parts of plants or the total crop plant can wither and die.
• Bacteria: cause four main problems, such as
»Enzyme Production: Breaks down plant cell walls, causing rot.
»Toxin Production: Damages plant tissues, leading to early plant death.
»Sticky Sugars: Block plant channels, preventing water uptake and leading to
rapid plant death.
»Hormone Mimicry: Causes overgrowth of plant tissue, forming tumours.
• Viruses: Mainly cause systemic diseases: Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 51
»Symptoms: Chlorosis or colour change in leaves and other green parts, light
green or yellow patches forming mosaic patterns.
»Effects: General reduction in plant growth and vigour.
5.4 Management Practices
Regular and careful monitoring of pest and disease levels during critical crop growth times
is essential for early intervention. It can be done in the following ways:
• Scouting:
»Regular field scouting helps in early detection and intervention.
»Common scouting patterns include zigzag or M-shaped routes through fields
to ensure all areas are visited.
• Use of Natural Plant Extracts:
»Avoid unnecessary use of natural plant extracts to prevent harming pest
predators and parasitoids.
»Over-application can lead pests to develop resistance.
• Scouting Patterns:
»Predetermined zigzag or M-shaped routes ensure comprehensive field
coverage.
»Convenient and effective for teaching and implementation.
5.5 Curative Methods
This section outlines strategies to conserve natural pest enemies by minimizing pesticide
use, diversifying crops, and creating supportive habitats like hedges, beetle banks, and
flower strips to attract beneficial organisms. Some methods to biologically control natural
enemies of pests are as follows:
• Minimise Natural Pesticides: Reduce the use of natural pesticides to avoid harming
beneficial organisms that prey on pests.
• Allow Some Pests: Permit certain pests to remain in the field as they serve as food
or hosts for natural enemies.
• Diverse Cropping Systems: Implement mixed cropping systems to create a more
diverse ecosystem that supports beneficial insect life and reduces pest pressure.
• Host Plants for Natural Enemies: Include plants that provide food or shelter for
natural enemies, such as flowers that beneficial insects feed on.
• Enhance Floral Diversity: Increase floral diversity within and along the boundaries
of crop fields to support a broader range of beneficial organisms. There are many
possibilities to enhance floral diversity within and along the boundaries of crop fields. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 52
For habitat enhancement of the natural pest predators, the following techniques are employed-
• Hedges - Use indigenous shrubs known to attract pest predators and parasitoids by
offering nectar, pollen, alternative hosts and/ or prey. Most flowering shrub species
have this property. However, care should be taken not to use plant species that are
alternative hosts of pests or diseases.
• Beetle banks - Strips of grass in the neighbourhood of crop fields harbour different
natural pest enemy groups like carabids, staphylinid beetles and spiders. To lower
the risk of weeds and plants known as host plants of crop pests and diseases, one to
three native grass species can be sown in strips of 1 to 3 m.
• Flower strips - Three to five native flowering plant species can be sown in well-
prepared seed beds, arranged in strips of 1 to 3 m on the boundary of the crop field.
After flowering, seeds can be collected to renew the strip or create new ones.
• Companion plants - Companion plants can also attract natural pest enemies within
a crop. These companion plant species can be used in the flower strips in the same
way. A few (1 or 2 per 10 m
2
) flowering companion plants within a crop serve as a
‘service station’ for natural pest enemies.
5.5.1 Mechanical Control
(i) Mass-Trapping Techniques
Mass-trapping of pests is an additional control measure (Table 5.4). They can often
be quickly built with cheap materials. Some examples include:
Table 5.4: Mass-Trapping Techniques
Trap
Type
Target Pests
Operational
Principle & Placement
Key Considerations
Light
Traps
Night-flying insects,
including armyworms,
cutworms, and
stem borers.
An ultraviolet light source
attracts insects at night. The
insects fly into baffles and are
directed down a funnel into
a collection reservoir. The
reservoir should be emptied
daily, with weekly inspection
and cleaning of the light
source and funnel.
Deployment is most
effective immediately
following moth
emergence, preventing
egg-laying. These
traps are non-selective
and attract both pest
and non-pest species,
increasing local
insect density.
Colour
& Water
Traps
Adult thrips.
Utilizes sticky traps in shades
of blue, yellow, or white. Water
traps require a minimum depth
of 6 cm, a surface area of
250–500 cm², and a surfactant
(detergent). Traps should be
positioned approximately one
meter above the crop canopy.
Bright colours are
significantly more
effective than dark
shades. Cylindrical trap
designs outperform flat
surfaces in efficacy. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 53
Trap
Type
Target Pests
Operational
Principle & Placement
Key Considerations
Yellow
Sticky
Traps
(Fig. 5.2.)
Whiteflies, aphids,
and leaf-mining flies.
Consists of yellow plastic
surfaces coated with a viscous
adhesive, like grease or used
motor oil. Traps are positioned
approximately 10 cm above the
plant foliage.
Regular cleaning is
necessary to maintain
effectiveness.
Placement must
be strategic, as the
colour yellow attracts
both target pests and
beneficial insects.
Pher-
omone
Traps
(Fig 5.3)
Moths and other
insects are attracted
to species-specific
pheromones (e.g.,
pink bollworm, brinjal
shoot & fruit
borer, fall
armyworm)
Uses synthetic sex pheromones
to lure male insects into a
trap (commonly funnel, delta,
or water traps). Traps are
placed at crop canopy height,
typically 10–15 per hectare
for monitoring.
Pheromones are
species-specific-
choose the correct
lure. Replace lures
every 2–4 weeks as
per the manufacturer’s
instructions. Used
mainly for monitoring
and mass trapping, not
standalone control.
Bait
Traps
Flies.
Perforated plastic bottles
containing a liquid bait (e.g.,
water, cattle urine, fruit flesh, or
decomposing fish, mixed with a
surfactant). Traps are hung from
tree branches.
Traps should be
inspected every three
days to monitor
effectiveness and
replenish the bait
as required. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 54
Fig. 5.2: Yellow Sticky Trap
Fig. 5.3: Pheromone Trap
(i) Fruit Bagging for Protection
• Prevents fruit flies from laying eggs and shields produce from physical
damage.
• Works well for fruits like melons, mangoes, guavas, avocados, and ba-
nanas. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 55
• A simple and cost-effective method involving newspaper bags or plastic
covers.
• Bags should be securely tied, ensuring fruits do not touch the material.
• For mangoes, bagging should begin around 55–60 days after flowering.
5.6 Weed Management
In natural farming, when Farmyard Manure (FYM) is a vital farm input, it enhances the
chance of adding weeds to the farming system. Sunlight is required for germinating weed
seeds, but when mulching is applied on the field’s surface, the sun rays cannot reach the
weed seeds, and these germinated seeds will dry after yellowing. The remaining weeds
should be removed during ploughing. However, for fruit plants older than 3 years, the weed
should be removed by hoeing, not ploughing. The weeds should be removed or chopped
before they reach the lowest branch of the fruit tree, and can be used as mulch (Achaddan).
Additionally, it is well-researched that specific crop-weed and weed-weed suppression
mechanisms are observed through smothering action and allelopathic effects. Suitable crop
cycles have also been studied to demonstrate how certain species possess inherent weed
suppression properties. For example, wheat crops grown after a green manure application
of Dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) and Sunflower showed considerable control over the weed
Phalaris Minor. However, when introducing weed species for competitive control, care is
to be taken, as they may also be invasive. As part of sustainable crop intensification and
mulching, these materials can be used suitably based on local Agro-climatic conditions
for weed management.
Natural Farming systems effectively suppress weed pressure through ecological strategies,
such as crop diversification, mulching, and enhancing natural seed predation. Increased
crop diversity at field and landscape scales can reduce weed infestation by up to 6% and
increase weed seed predation by 16%, thereby moderating weed population dynamics
(Allan et al., 2023). In Natural Farming, minimum tillage combined with surface mulch
significantly improves soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and enhances crop emergence and
water use efficiency compared to conventional tillage (Jaswal et al., 2022). Farmer surveys
further highlight that managing weeds remains a key practical challenge in NF adoption,
emphasizing the need for integrated, context-specific practices (Sarada & Suneel Kumar,
2018). Collectively, these biodiversity-supportive approaches reduce dependence on external
inputs, enhance soil health, and promote long-term resilience of agroecosystems.
5.6.1 Companion Crop of Weeds
The roots of dicot weeds their leaves; at senescence, when the leaves fall, the
micronutrients stored in the leaves are released. At senescence, when the leaves
fall, the micronutrients stored in the leaves are released and made available to fruit
trees. The root nodules of dicot weeds have rhizomes.
Plant indicators are the plants that represent a measure or index of the environment.
Some crops are known to be specific for symptoms of a particular deficient nutrient
element exhibiting characteristic symptoms. Such crops are called indicator crops Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 56
because of the deficiency of that element(s). This is mainly due to the greater demand
for the component of the respective Indicator Crops. The various nutrient elements
are indicated against their indicator crops in Table 5.5.
Table 5.5: Indicator Crops for the Nutrient Deficiency in Soil
Nutrient ElementIndicator Crops
Nitrogen
Cereals like maize, sorghum and pulses
PhosphorusTomato, maize, cereals, lucerne
PotassiumPotato, banana, cotton, lucerne
MagnesiumCotton (leaf reddening)
ZincMaize, paddy (“khaira” disease), citrus, beans
SulphurCereals, lucerne, tea (yellowing)
CopperCitrus, cereals
IronSugarcane, sorghum, citrus, and ornamental plants
ManganeseCitrus, sunflower, sugar beet
Calcium Cauliflower, tomato (blossom end rot of fruits), sugar beet
MolybdenumCauliflower (Whip tail)
5.6.2 Preventive Measures
Preventive measures for weed management include the following:
• Choosing Suitable Varieties:
»Opt for plant varieties that are well-suited to local environmental conditions,
including temperature, nutrient availability, and resistance to pests and
diseases.
• Ensuring Healthy Seeds and Planting Materials:
»Use seeds and planting materials that have been carefully inspected to prevent
the introduction of pathogens and weeds.
• Implementing Diverse Cropping Systems:
»Adopt mixed cropping to minimise pest and disease outbreaks by reducing
the availability of host plants while encouraging beneficial insects.
»Rotate crops regularly to decrease soil-borne diseases and improve soil
fertility.
»Utilise green manuring and cover crops to enhance soil biological activity,
fostering beneficial organisms.
• Moderate Fertilisation:
»Apply moderate fertilisation to promote steady growth, making plants less
vulnerable to infections. Avoid excessive fertilisation, which can result in salt
damage to roots and secondary infections. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 57
• Organic Matter Input:
»Increase organic matter in the soil to boost micro-organism density and
activity, decreasing populations of pathogenic fungi and stabilizing soil
structure for improved aeration and water infiltration.
• Soil Cultivation Methods:
»Use suitable soil cultivation methods to facilitate the decomposition of
infected plant parts, regulate weeds that host pests and diseases, and protect
microorganisms that regulate soil-borne diseases.
• Water Management:
»Implement good water management practices to maintain soil moisture and
health.
• Conservation and Promotion of Natural Enemies:
»Promote the conservation of natural enemies of pests to maintain ecological
balance.
• Optimal Planting Time and Spacing:
»Select the optimal planting time to avoid the vulnerable life stage of plants
coinciding with high pest density.
»Maintain sufficient distance between plants to reduce disease spread and
ensure good aeration, allowing leaves to dry off faster and hindering pathogen
development.
• Removal of Infected Plant Parts:
»Remove infected plant parts (leaves, fruits) from the ground to prevent disease
spread and eliminate residues of infected plants after harvesting.
5.7 Step-By-Step Weed Management Schedule
1. Before Sowing:
• Solarise soil if possible (cover with polythene for 2–3 weeks).
• Ensure proper drainage to avoid weed proliferation.
2. At Sowing:
• Use mulching or intercrop legumes to suppress early weeds.
3. Early Crop Stage (15–30 days):
• Light manual weeding.
• Apply biomass mulch after first irrigation/rain.
4. Mid-Season:
• Spot weeding only where necessary.
• Allow beneficial weeds (nectar-bearing, non-invasive) to remain. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 58
5. Post-Harvest:
• Allow weeds to grow and enrich soil.
• Use as green manure for the next crop.
References & Additional Readings
• Allan, E., et al. (2023). Both long-term grasslands and crop diversity are needed to limit pest
and weed infestations in agricultural landscapes. Proceedings of the National Academy of
Sciences, 120(15), e2300861120. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2300861120
• Jaswal, R., Sandal, S. K., Sahu, K. K., & Sharma, A. (2022). Effect of tillage on growth and
productivity of rainfed maize grown with Zero Budget Natural Farming system in Himachal
Pradesh. Himachal Journal of Agricultural Research, 48(01), 37–43. Retrieved from https://
hjar.org/index.php/hjar/article/view/172117
• Lecture Outline Framework: Natural Farming -Curriculum, ATMA & SAMETI Directorate,
Gujarat
• Sarada, O., & Suneel Kumar, G. V. (2018). Perception of the farmers on Zero Budget Natural
Farming in Prakasam District of Andhra Pradesh. The Journal of Research, PJTSAU, 46(1).
• Training manual for Organic Agriculture by Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United
Nation (FAO). 2015 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 59
CHAPTER 6
Bio-Input
Production Methods Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 60
6.1 Introduction
On-farm inputs enable a stable level of organic matter in the soil, numerous benefits, including
improved soil structure, stimulated biological activity, and increased water retention, ultimately
enhancing overall plant health. These formulations can also protect crops from pests and diseases
by acting as repellents or stimulating the plant’s natural defence mechanisms. The contribution
of such inputs is an essential agroecological lever for preserving agricultural soil quality. A
key principle of this approach is the on-farm creation of these inputs, empowering farmers to
become self-reliant. To support a seamless transition and ensure consistent access, an alternative
and supportive pathway is the Bio-Input Resource Centre (BRC). These BRCs function as
local hubs where farmers can procure ready-to-use, quality-assured inputs or receive training
to produce them independently. This chapter details several key formulations. The preparation
methods discussed can be utilised by farmers for their own on-farm creation or can be scaled
by BRCs to serve the broader community.
Inputs in Natural Farming
(On-Farm Production & Bioinput Resource Centres)
Beejamrit
Jeev-
amrit
Ghanjeev-
amrit
Brah-
mastra
Neem-
astra
Agni-
astra
Dashparni
Ark
Other
Pest
Control
Formul-
ations
Fig. 6.1: Overview of Inputs in Natural Farming
6.2 On-Farm Production Technology of Bio-Inputs
6.2.1 Beejamrit
It coats the seed with beneficial microorganisms that defend it against harmful
pathogens present in the soil and on the seed coat, ensuring robust germination
and a healthy seedling (Fig. 6.2). The technical composition, preparation protocol
and functional mechanism of Beejamrit are detailed in Table 6.1 and the different
compositions estimated in Beejamrit are given in Table 6.2.
Fig. 6.2: Beejamrit Preparation Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 61
Table 6.1: Beejamrit Formulation: Ingredients, Microbial Dynamics and Agronomic Role
AspectDetails
Definition
A liquid microbial inoculant made from fresh cow dung, cow urine, lime,
and soil. It is used as a seed treatment to provide a protective coating of
beneficial microbes that improve germination and protect seedlings from
pests and diseases.
Ingredients
Cow Dung: 5 kg, Cow Urine: 5 litres, Lime: 50 grams, Bund Soil: 100 gms,
Water: 20 litres.
Preparation
1. Wrap 5 kg of cow dung in a cloth and hang it in 20 litres of water for 12 hours.
2. Separately, mix 50 g lime in 1 litre of water and let it settle overnight. 3.
The next day, squeeze the dung bundle in the water three times to release
its essence.
4. Add the bund soil, the 5 litres of cow urine, and the settled lime water to
the solution and stir well. Keep them aside for 24 hours
5. Twice a day, stir the mixture with a wooden stick.
Application
Apply the solution as a coating to seeds by hand and let them dry completely
before sowing. For thin-coated leguminous seeds, a quick dip followed by
drying is sufficient.
Mode of
Action
Beejamrit functions through a dual mechanism:
1) Microbial Inoculation: Beneficial microbes colonise the seed and root
zone (rhizosphere), enhancing nutrient availability and suppressing pathogens.
2) Chemical Elicitation: Bioactive metabolites prime seeds for systemic
defense and pathogen resistance.
Functional
Microbes
Contains high populations of:
• Free-living nitrogen fixers (FNFs): Azotobacter, Azospirillum
(~10⁹ CFU/mL).
• Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSBs): Bacillus, Pseudomonas
(~10⁸ CFU/mL).
Bioactive
Compounds &
Their
Functions
• Antimicrobial/Antifungal: Pinocembrin, Enterolactone, Cicloprofen.
• Insect Repellent/Insecticidal: Mevastatin, Gitoxigenin, Prednisolone.
• Herbicidal: 4-tert-butylcalixarene.
• Seed Longevity: Columbianetin, Lomatin.
• Plant Defence & Growth: Clupanodonic acid, Erioflorin,
Nagilactone, Catalpol.
• Antioxidant: Ubiquinol.
Optimal Use
Period
Most effective when used fresh (within 2–3 days of preparation) for the
highest microbial activity. Prolonged storage reduces the presence of fungi
and actinomycetes, causing the pH to drop. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 62
AspectDetails
Effect
of Cow Breed
Using ingredients from native breeds may lead to higher initial counts of
fungi and actinomycetes.
Table 6.2: Different compositions estimated in Beejamrit
ParameterUnitValue
N%0.72-2.38
P%0.12-0.14
K%0.23-0.49
Bacteria count CFU/ml (x10
8
)5.37-6.10
Fungal count CFU/ml (x10
4
)3.42 -4.05
Actinomycetes
count
CFU/ml (x10
5
)2.90 -3.85
(Source: The All India Coordinated Research Project on Integrated Farming System)
6.2.2 Jeevamrit
Jeevamrit is an important liquid formulation in natural farming.  It is not a fertilizer
in the conventional sense, but a potent microbial culture designed to inoculate
the soil with beneficial microorganisms (Fig. 6.3). This living solution enhances
nutrient availability for plants and stimulates biological activity, building a vibrant
and healthy soil ecosystem.
Fig. 6.3: Use of Jeevamrit as a Foliar Spray Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 63
The technical composition, preparation protocol and functional mechanism of
Jeevamrit are detailed in Table 6.3 and the different compositions estimated in
Jeevamrit are given in Table 6.4.
Table 6.3: Jeevamrit Formulation: Ingredients, Microbial Dynamics and Agronomic Role
AspectDetails
Definition
A liquid microbial culture used in Natural Farming to enrich the soil
and improve plant health. It is prepared by fermenting cow dung, cow
urine, jaggery, pulse flour, water, and sometimes soil.
Ingredients
Fresh Cow Dung: 10 kg, Cow Urine: 8-10 litres, Jaggery: 1.5 - 2 kg,
Pulses Flour: 1.5 - 2 kg, Uncontaminated Soil: 500 gm, Water: 180 litres.
Preparation
1. Mix all ingredients in 200 litres of water and stir thoroughly.
2. Allow the mixture to ferment in the shade for 2 to 3 days.
3. During fermentation, stir the solution in a clockwise direction for
two minutes with a wooden stick twice daily (morning and evening)
and cover the container with gunny sacks.
Application
• Apply every fortnight, either by spraying directly on crops or by adding
it to irrigation water (at a rate of 200 litres per acre).
• The prepared solution can be stored and used within 7 days in the
summer season and 8-10 days in the winter season.
Microbial Composition
• Contains high counts of Nitrogen-fixers (~10⁸–10⁹ CFU/mL), Phosphorus-
solubilisers, Potassium-mobilizers, and IAA-producing bacteria, with
peak populations reached around 48 hours.
• Dominant Genera include: Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Aeromonas, and
Ochrobactrum.
Bioactive Compounds
& Their Functions
• Antifungal/Fungistatic: Diffractaic acid, Benzoic acid.
• Antibacterial: Daphnin.
• Insecticidal/Insect Repellent: α-Selinene, ar-Turmerone,
1,4-Cyclohexanediol.
• Herbicidal: Retinoic acid.
• Plant Growth & Stress Tolerance: Stigmasterol.
Chemical PropertiespH: The initial pH of the solution is typically between 7.5 and 8.5.
Table 6.4: Different compositions estimated in Jeevamrit
ParameterUnitValue
N%0.25-1.40
P%0.13-0.42
K%0.26-0.31 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 64
ParameterUnitValue
Bacteria count CFU/ml (x10
8
)25.47-26.53
Fungal count CFU/ml (x10
3
)1.82 – 2.75
Actinomycetes count CFU/ml (x10
3
)4.97-5.88
(Source: The All India Coordinated Research Project on Integrated Farming System)
6.2.3 Ghanjeevamrit
In addition to the liquid Jeevamrit, natural farming utilizes a solid version known as
Ghanjeevamrit (Fig 6.4). Unlike its liquid counterpart, which is used for immediate
nutrient and microbial delivery, Ghanjeevamrit can be stored for several months and
is ideal for applying as a basal dose during land preparation or as a top dressing for
crops. This provides a slow and steady release of beneficial microbes and nutrients
directly into the root zone. The technical composition, preparation protocol and
functional mechanism of Ghanjeevamrit are detailed in Table 6.5 and the different
compositions estimated in Ghanjeevamrit are given in Table 6.6.
Fig. 6.4: Ghanjeevamrit Preparation Training
The benefits of Ghanjeevamrit are:
• Nutrient Activation: Helps the soil to activate its available nutrients and
microorganisms, making them accessible to the crops.
• Increased Earthworm Count: Increases the number of earthworms in the
soil, which is beneficial for soil fertility.
• Nutrient Content: Jeevamrit contains many nutrients such as nitrogen,
phosphorus, calcium, and other micronutrients.
• Higher Yield: Enhances the availability of nutrients through faster
decomposition of bulky organic manures and boosts microbial activity in the
soil. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 65
• Microbial Richness: Many formulations are rich in beneficial microflora and
can act as efficient plant growth promoters.
Table 6.5: Ghanjeevamrit Formulation: Ingredients, Microbial Dynamics and Agronomic Role
AspectDetails
Definition
A dry, solid, and storable form of Jeevamrit used as a soil amendment for
long-term enrichment. It is made by briefly fermenting cow dung, urine,
jaggery, pulse flour, and soil, and then drying the mixture.
Ingredients
Cow Dung: 100 kg, Jaggery: 1 kg, Gram Flour: 2 kg, Healthy Soil: 1 handful,
Cow Urine: 5 litres.
Preparation
1. Thoroughly mix powdered jaggery and gram flour into the cow dung.
2. Add the handful of healthy soil and mix again.
3. Add just enough cow urine to make the mixture moist but not wet.
4. Spread the mixture in the shade to dry for 48 hours, covering it with
a jute bag.
5. Once completely dry, crush and sieve the material before storing it
in gunny bags.
Application
Apply at least 1000 kg per hectare at the time of sowing. An additional 50
kg per acre can be applied between crop lines during the flowering period
as a nutrient boost.
Mode of Action
Ghanjeevamrit works through two primary mechanisms:
1) Microbial Inoculation: Boosts soil microbial diversity and improves
nutrient cycling by introducing beneficial microbes.
2) Chemical Elicitation: The bioactive compounds suppress pathogens,
regulate plant growth, and enhance stress tolerance.
Key Components
Functional Microbes:
• Rich in free-living Nitrogen-fixers (Azotobacter, Azospirillum) and
Phosphate-solubilizers (Bacillus, Pseudomonas).
Bioactive Compounds:
• Antimicrobial: Phenol derivatives.
• Growth & Stress Resilience: Stigmasterol and related sterols.
• Enzyme Inhibition/Metabolism Regulation: Phlorobutyrophenone.
• Antioxidants & Vitamins: Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), Ascorbic
acid 2,6-dihexadecanoate.
• Carbon Source/Signaling: n-Hexadecanoic acid. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 66
AspectDetails
Chemical
Properties & Use
pH: Typically ranges from 6.3 to 7.1. Dung from native cow breeds provides
better acidity buffering.
Optimal Use: Microbial activity peaks within the first 2 days of moist
incubation (i.e., upon application to the soil). The drying process stabilizes
it for long-term storage.
Table 6.6: Different Compositions Estimated in Ghanjeevamrit
ParameterUnitValue
N%1.05-1.80
P%0.16-0.30
K%0.68-0.85
Bacteria count CFU/ml (x10
8
)29.65-30.52
Fungal count CFU/ml (x10
4
)5.98-6.88
Actinomycetes count CFU/ml (x10
5
)4.01-4.86
(Source: The All India Coordinated Research Project on Integrated Farming System)
6.2.4 Brahmastra
Brahmastra is a powerful, broad-spectrum botanical solution that acts as both an
insecticide and a repellent. The formulation works by combining the bitter and
alkaloid-rich properties of several potent plant leaves, which are extracted into
cow urine (Fig. 6.5). This mixture must be boiled to release the active compounds,
making it stronger than simple fermented solutions.
Fig. 6.5. Brahmastra Preparation Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 67
The ingredients, preparation method and application of Brahmastra are detailed
in Table 6.7 and the different compositions estimated in Brahmastra are given
in Table 6.8.
Table 6.7: Brahmastra Formulation: Ingredients, Preparation Method and Application
AspectDetails
Purpose A broad-spectrum insecticide and repellent.
Ingredients
Cow Urine: 20 litres, Neem Leaves Paste: 2 kg, Karanja Leaves Paste: 2
kg, Custard Apple Leaves Paste: 2 kg, Datura Leaves Paste: 2 kg, Castor
Leaves Paste: 2 kg.
Preparation
Mix all the different leaf pastes into the 20 litres of cow urine in a large
vessel. Boil this mixture on a low flame until it foams once or twice. After
it has foamed, stop boiling and allow the mixture to cool in the shade for 48
hours. After 48 hours have passed, filter the solution through a muslin cloth.
Application
& Storage
Dilute 6-8 litres of Brahmastra in 200 litres of water for a standard foliar
spray on one acre. The ratio can be adjusted based on pest severity. This
solution should be used within one month.
20
Table 6.8: Different Compositions Estimated in Brahmastra
ParametersUnitValue
Organic C%0.67± 0.07
Total Phenolics ppm1351± 33
Total Flavonoids ppm73.3± 10.4
Total Tannins ppm32348± 733
Total Alkaloids ppm253± 7
Total Gibberellins ppm8066± 276
(Source: The All India Coordinated Research Project on Integrated Farming System)
Adjusting the Ratio: The ratio may be adjusted depending on the severity of the
pest attack as follows:
• 100 litres of water + 3 litres of Brahmastra
• 15 litres of water + 500 ml of Brahmastra
• 10 litres of water + 300 ml of Brahmastra
6.2.5 Neemastra
One of the most fundamental and widely used pest management solutions in natural
farming is Neemastra .  This formulation is particularly effective as a first line of
defense against common sucking pests, such as aphids, jassids, and whiteflies, as
well as the early stages of small caterpillars. The preparation involves a simple
20 https://naturalfarming.dac.gov.in/uploads/studymaterial/GenericProtocolsforNFbyICAR.pdf?utm Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 68
fermentation process, combining neem with the microbial properties of cow dung
and cow urine (Fig 6.6).
Fig 6.6. Neemastra
The complete list of ingredients, preparation method and application are detailed
in Table 6.9 and the different compositions estimated in Neemastra are given
in table 6.10.
Table 6.9: Neemastra Formulation: Ingredients, Preparation Method and Application
AspectDetails
Purpose
To control various sucking pests like jassids, aphids, and whiteflies, as well
as small caterpillars.
Ingredients
Water: 200 litres, Cow Dung: 2 kg, Cow Urine: 10 litres, Neem Leaves Paste
or Seed Pulp: 10 kg.
Preparation
Mix all the ingredients together in a large drum. Stir the mixture clockwise
with a long stick. Cover the drum with a gunny bag and keep it in the shade
for 48 hours to ferment. Stir the solution every morning and evening in a
clockwise direction. After 48 hours, filter the solution through a muslin cloth.
Application
& Storage
Apply the prepared solution directly to the crops as a foliar spray without
needing any further dilution. This formulation can be stored for up to 6 months.
Table 6.10: Different Compositions Estimated in Neemastra
ParametersUnitValue
Organic C%0.92 ±0.03
Total Phenolics ppm1196 ±77
Total Flavonoids ppm508 ±13 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 69
ParametersUnitValue
Total Tannins ppm15659 ±354
Total Alkaloids ppm2.39 ±0.39
Total Gibberellins ppm8393 ±144
(Source: The All India Coordinated Research Project on Integrated Farming System)
6.2.6 Agniastra
For managing more persistent pests that may not be controlled by simpler formulations,
farmers can prepare Agniastra. This formulation incorporates hot and strong ingredients
like green chilli, tobacco, and garlic (Fig 6.7), making it a powerful solution for
more resilient insect pests.
Fig 6.7: Agniastra Ingredients
The complete list of ingredients, preparation method and application are detailed
in Table 6.11.
Table 6.11: Agniastra Formulation: Ingredients, Preparation Method and Application
AspectDetails
Purpose A stronger insecticide for more resilient pests.
Ingredients
Cow Urine: 10 litres, Neem Leaves Pulp: 5 kg, Tobacco Powder: 1 Kg, Green
Chilli Paste: 500 gm, Garlic Paste: 500 gm Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 70
AspectDetails
Preparation
Mix all the ingredients in a clay pot or another suitable vessel. Stir the solution
clockwise, cover it with a lid, and boil the mixture until it begins to foam.
Remove the vessel from the heat and let it cool in the shade for 48 hours,
stirring it twice a day during this period. After 48 hours, filter the solution
through a thin muslin cloth.
Application
&
Storage
Dilute 6-8 litres of this formulation in 200 litres of water for a standard foliar
spray. The concentration can be adjusted based on pest severity. This solution
can be stored for up to 3 months.
Adjusting the Ratio:
The ratio may be adjusted depending on the severity of the pest attack as follows:
• 100 litres of water + 3 litres of Agniastra
• 15 litres of water + 500 litres of Agniastra
• 10 litres of water + 300 litres of Agniastra
6.2.7 Dashaparni Ark
The name ‘Dashaparni’ literally translates to ‘ten leaves,’ which highlights its core
principle: combining the pest-repellent properties from a diverse range of plants to
create a powerful solution. This multi-ingredient concoction (Fig 6.8) is designed
to act as a broad-spectrum repellent, effective against a wide array of agricultural
pests. Due to its detailed recipe and specific, multi-step preparation method that
involves a long fermentation period, the complete list of ingredients and step-by-
step instructions are outlined in Table 6.12.Fig 6.8. Dashaparni Ark Ingredients Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 71
Table 6.12: Dashaparni Ark Formulation: Ingredients, Preparation Method and Application
AspectDetails
PurposeA very broad-spectrum repellent effective against a wide range of pests.
Ingredients
Liquids: Water (200 litres), Cow Urine (10 litres). Solids: Cow Dung (2 kg),
Turmeric Powder (500 gm), Ginger Paste (500 gm), Garlic Paste (500 gm), Green
Chilli Paste (1 kg), Tobacco Powder (1 kg), Asafoetida (10 gm). Leaves: Paste
from any 10 different bitter or repellent plant leaves (2-3 kg each).
Preparation
First, mix the water, cow urine, and cow dung, then cover and set it aside for
2 hours. Next, add the turmeric, ginger, and asafoetida, stir well, and leave it
overnight. The following day, add the tobacco, chilli, and garlic pastes, stir, and
leave for 24 hours. The next morning, add the paste of the 10 types of leaves. Stir
everything thoroughly and allow the mixture to ferment for 30-40 days, stirring
twice daily. After 40 days, filter the mixture with a muslin cloth.
21
Application
Dilute 6-8 litres of the prepared solution in 200 litres of water and use it as a
foliar spray on one acre.
6.2.8 Some Other Pest Control Formulations
Many natural farmers and NGOs have developed innovative formulations that
effectively control various pests. Although none of these formulations have been
subjected to scientific validation, their wide acceptance by farmers speaks of their
usefulness. Farmers can try these formulations, as they can be prepared on their
farms without making purchases.
For ease of use, these preparations can be grouped into two main categories based
on their complexity and preparation time. The first group consists of simple recipes
that are quick to prepare and ideal for addressing common, immediate needs. These
are detailed in  Table 6.13.
Table 6.13: Simple Formulations for Pest Control and Plant Health
Formulation
Name
Primary Use /
Target Pests
Key IngredientsPreparation & Application
Diluted
Cow Urine
A general growth
promoter that also
helps manage
pathogens
and insects.
Cow Urine and Water.
This is a simple dilution. Mix
one part fresh cow urine with
20 parts water. Use the resulting
solution directly as a foliar spray
on the crops.
Fermented
Curd Water
For the management
of common sucking
pests like whiteflies,
jassids, and aphids.
Fermented curd
water, also known as
buttermilk or Chaach.
No special preparation is needed.
The fermented liquid is used
directly in its natural state. It
should be applied as a foliar spray
on affected plants.
21 https://naturalfarming.dac.gov.in/uploads/studymaterial/GenericProtocolsforNFbyICAR.pdf?utm Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 72
Formulation
Name
Primary Use /
Target Pests
Key IngredientsPreparation & Application
Neem-Cow
Urine Extract
Effective against
a variety of
sucking pests
and mealy bugs.
Neem Leaves:
5 kg, Cow
Urine, Cow Dung:
2 kg, and Water.
First, crush the 5 kg of neem leaves
in a sufficient quantity of water to
make a paste. To this paste, add the
cow urine and 2 kg of cow dung.
Allow this mixture to ferment for 24
hours, stirring it intermittently. After
fermentation, filter and squeeze the
extract. Dilute the final extract to
a total volume of 100 litres with
water and use it as a foliar spray
to cover one acre.
Tutikada
rasam
22
A simple
insect repellent
made from a
common plant.
Datura Leaves
and Cow Urine.
This is a simple boiled preparation.
Boil the  Datura  leaves in cow urine
for a period of 2 to 3 hours. After
boiling, allow the mixture to cool
down completely. Once cool, filter
it through a cloth and it is ready to
be used as a foliar spray.
Jungle
Ki Kanddi
23
A liquid nutrient
and microbial
tonic for foliar
application.
Indigenous Cow’s
Dung Powder
(kanddi): 5 kg, and
Water: 200 litres.
Place 5 kg of  kanddi powder into
a muslin cloth bag. Hang this bag
so it is suspended in the center of a
200-litre drum of water and let it sit
for 48 hours, stirring the water twice
daily. After 48 hours, remove the
bag, squeeze it thoroughly into the
water, dip it back in, and squeeze
again. Repeat the process three
times. Filter the solution before
spraying and use it within 48 hours.
The second group includes more advanced formulations that often require multiple
ingredients, longer fermentation periods, or boiling to create potent, broad-spectrum
solutions for more persistent pest issues. The methods for creating these are outlined
in Table 6.14.
22 https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2021-03/NaturalFarmingProjectReport-ICAR-NAARM.pdf
23 https://naturalfarming.dac.gov.in/uploads/studymaterial/StudyMaterialforMasterTrainers.pdf?utm Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 73
Table 6.14: Advanced Formulations for Broad-Spectrum Pest Control
Formulation
Name
Primary Use /
Target Pests
Key IngredientsPreparation & Application
Mixed
Leaves Extract
(variation
of Brahmastra)
A potent extract
effective against
sucking pests and
pod or fruit borers.
Neem
Leaves: 3 kg
Cow
Urine: 10 litres
Custard Apple
Leaves: 2 kg
Papaya
Leaves: 2 kg,
Pomegranate
Leaves: 2 kg
Guava
Leaves: 2 kg.
This is a two-part preparation. First,
crush the 3 kg of neem leaves in the
10 litres of cow urine. In a separate
container, crush the other leaves in
water. Mix the two preparations and
boil them at intervals until the total
volume is reduced by half. Allow the
mixture to sit for 24 hours, then filter
it. Dilute 2 to 2.5 litres of this extract
in 100 litres of water for application
over one acre. It can be stored for
up to 6 months.
Chil-
li-Garlic Extract
A strong extract
effective against
leaf roller, stem
borer, fruit borer,
and pod borer.
Ipomea Leaves:
1 kg, Hot Chilli:
500 gm, Gar-
lic: 500 gm,
Neem Leaves:
5 kg, Cow
Urine: 10 litres.
Crush all the solid ingredients the Ip-
omea leaves, hot chilli, garlic, and
neem leaves together in the 10 litres
of cow urine to form a suspension.
Boil this suspension five times, or
until its volume is reduced to half.
After it has cooled, filter and squeeze
the extract. Dilute 2 to 3 litres of
the finished extract in 100 litres of
water and use for foliar spraying
over one acre.
Broad Spec-
trum Formulation
(Variation of
Bramhastra
/ Neemastra)
A multi-purpose
pesticide effective
against a wide vari-
ety of insects.
Fresh Neem
Leaves: 3 kg,
Neem Seed
Kernel Pow-
der: 1 kg, Cow
Urine: 10 litres,
Green Chillies:
500 gm, Garlic:
250 gm, Water.
This is a multi-day process. First, mix
the crushed neem leaves and neem
seed kernel powder with 10 litres of
cow urine in a copper container and
allow it to ferment for 10 days. After
10 days, boil this suspension until it
is reduced by half. Separately, grind
the green chillies and garlic in water
and let them sit overnight. The next
day, mix the boiled neem extract
with the chilli and garlic extracts
and filter thoroughly. Use 250 ml
of this concentrate in 15 litres of
water for spraying. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 74
Formulation
Name
Primary Use /
Target Pests
Key IngredientsPreparation & Application
Sonthastra
A general growth
promoter and
pest repellent.
Ginger Powder
(Sonth): 200
gm, Milk (with-
out cream): 2
litres, Water:
202 litres total.
This preparation requires two steps.
First, boil 200 grams of ginger pow-
der in 2 litres of water until the vol-
ume reduces by half, then let it cool.
Separately, slowly boil 2 litres of
milk and remove the cream after
it has cooled. Add both the ginger
solution and the creamless milk to
200 litres of water. Mix thorough-
ly and cover the solution for two
hours to facilitate ion exchange.
Filter the final solution and spray
it within 48 hours.
6.3 Bio-Inputs Resources Centres
Bio-Input Resource Centre (BRC) are conceptualised to cater to the emerging needs of
inputs for the transition from conventional farming to natural farming. A Bio-Input Resource
Centre (BRC) serves as a valuable hub for supplying sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural
inputs. It acts as a comprehensive resource and knowledge centre for the use of bio-inputs
in the transition to natural farming, as well as a centre for the production, marketing, and
sale of bio-inputs. These are produced within the village cluster using sustainable methods,
ensuring quality and accessibility for local farmers. A BRC may be promoted as a ‘One
Stop Facilitation Centre (OSFC)’ for natural farming inputs for the farmers of a village or
a cluster of contiguous villages.
BRCs can be established by an FPO, SHGs, PACS, dairies, gaushalas etc. Additionally,
individual farmers with livestock and access to byproducts (such as cow dung and urine)
may also set up BRCs (Fig 6.9). FPO/SHG/PACS/Dairy/Gaushala may source the raw
materials such as cow urine and dung. Local communities/panchayat/block officials may fix
raw material costs. Quality of the inputs may be assured through testing by the laboratories
of State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), ICAR Institutes, private universities or any other
laboratory notified by the Central or State Government as specified in FCO.
Fig 6.9: A Bio-Input Resource Centre Run by Mrs. Konda Usharani from Andhra Pradesh
(Source: RySS) Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 75
Every selected block should estimate the demand for inputs and viability for BRCs in
consultation with the local communities and estimate the number of BRCs as needed.
A farmer friendly app maybe developed in a regional language wherein the farmers can
register and mention their requirements. The BRCs can also register and connect with
farmers. Every model BRC can cater to 500-1000 farmers, and eventually, 10,000 farmers,
in turn, will reach out to around 50 lakh-1 crore farmers in 3 years. BRCs may establish
biofertilizer production units and other similar enterprises to promote the concept of waste
to wealth and circular economy. Market development assistance (MDA) and similar benefits
may be extended to willing BRCs. The following is an indicative list of inputs that maybe
prepared at a BRC:
• Beejamrit
• Jeevamrit
• Ghanjeevamrit
• Neemastra
• Agniastra
• Brahmastra
• Dashparni Ark
Fig. 6.10: A BRC in Andhra Pradesh
(Source: RySS)
6.3.1 Infrastructure for BRCs
The working area required for BRCs is minimum 500 square metres of open space.
Besides, a closed space for housing equipment, handling preparations, mixtures,
storage, etc. is required. The equipment required at a BRC should include a grinder,
mixer, fermentation/formulation tanks (as needed), storage and transportation
tanks, sprayers, and other necessary tools. Besides this, a BRC should also have
an administration, sales and accounting unit as well as waiting lobby for the farmers
/ buyers, equipped with AV display screen, sufficient furniture, various AV material
on local crop advisories, application of bio-inputs and information related to natural
farming. Power connection and water supply facilities are required in both the
working and service area. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 76
The fermentation tanks of BRC, cow dung and cow urine requirement for various
products are as given in Table 6.15. (Note: On an average, one cow sources 10 kg
of dung and 7 litres of urine per day)
Table 6.15: Cow Dung and Cow Urine Requirement for Various Products in
Fermentation Tanks of BRCs
Input Tanks and capacity Cow dung Cow urine
Beejamrit 1 tank x 1000 litres 165 kg 165 litres
Jeevamrit 6 tanks x 5000 litres 1500 kg 1500 litres
Ghanjeevamrit-5000 kg 250 litres
Neemastra
Brahmastra
Agniastra
1 tank x 1000 litres 9 kg 1485 litres
Dashparni Ark 1 tank x 1000 litres 8.5 kg 43 litres
Total9 tanks 6682.5 kg litres
(Source: Authors’ Calculations)
6.3.2 Models for Preparations of Various Bio-Inputs at BRCs
(i) Jeevamrit
Model-1:
• Number of cows required: 10-25
• 6 tanks (each with a capacity of 5000 litres)
• Can cater need up to 150 acre or 50-100 farmers at a time on daily basis
and 500 to 1000 farmers in one month
• Requirements for 1 tank (5000 litres): 250 kg cow dung
250 litres cow urine
45 kg jaggery
45 kg gram flour
4250 litres water
• Requirements for 6 tanks: 1500 kg cow dung
1500 litres cow urine
270 kg jaggery
270 kg gram flour
25500 litres water
The cost for establishing the automation plant for Jeevamrit production with 6 tanks and the
recurring costs are as given in Table 6.16 and Table 6.17. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 77
Table 6.16: Costs involved for establishing the automation plant for Jeevamrit production
S. No.ParticularsCost in Rs.
1.Construction cost of cowshed60,000
2.Cost of water tank, mixing tank and Jeevamrit tanks 2,40,000
3.Installation of electric motors 2hp (3 nos.) 30,000
4.Air compressor15,000
5.Mud pump15,000
6.Accessories and fittings40,000
7.Total cost of automation plant for Jeevamrit preparation 4,00,000
(Source: Authors’ Calculations)
Table 6.17: Recurring costs in an automated plant for Jeevamrit preparation (5000 litres).
S. No.ParticularsCost in Rs.
1.Cost of jaggery @ 50 Rs/kg (45 x50)2,250
2.Cost of gram flour @ 60 Rs/kg (45x 60)2,700
3.Electricity300
4.Labour150
5.Total cost for 5000 l5400
(Source: Authors’ Calculations)
Thus, the per litre cost for production of Jeevamrit is approximately 1 Rupee. The
flow diagram for production is as given in Fig.6.11.
Fig. 6.11: Sketch of Automation Plant for Jeevamrit Production Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 78
Process flow of Jeevamrit automation plant
• Step-1: Collection of cow urine: The cowshed shall be constructed with enough slope
on the floor to collect cow urine in the underground collection chamber through an
underground pipe.
• Step-2: Mixing cow urine, dung, and water: Collected cow urine is mixed with cow
dung and water using a mud pump and a 2 HP motor.
• Step-3: Jeevamrit preparation: The mixture of cow urine, dung, and water is passed
to the Jeevamrit tank. Jaggery, soil, and gram flour are added to the mixture. The
mixture is then stirred for three days with the help of an air compressor.
• Step-4: Filtering and storing Jeevamrit: Jeevamrit is ready for use after three days of
stirring. The mixture is passed through three filters to remove any impurities and then
stored in a separate storage tank for future use.
Some sample photos of an automated Jeevamrit preparation unit are shown from
Fig.6.12 to 6.14.
Fig. 6.12: Cow Shed and Mixing of Cow Dung and Urine
Fig. 6.13: Jeevamrit Tanks Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 79
Fig. 6.14: Jeevamrit Filtration and Storage Tank
Model-2:
• Number of cows 50 - 100
• 6 tanks (each with capacity of 10000 litres)
• Can cater up to 300 acre or 100-200 farmers at a time and 1000 to 2000
farmers in one month.
• Requirements for 1 tank: 500 kg cow dung
500 l cow urine
90 kg jaggery
90 kg gram flour
8500 l water
• Requirements for 6 tanks: 3000 kg cow dung
3000 l cow urine
540 kg jaggery
540 kg gram flour
51000 l water
The estimated cost of production for 1 tank with capacity of 10000 l is as given
in Table 6.18.
Table 6.18: Recurring cost for Jeevamrit preparation (10000 litres)
S. No.ParticularsCost in Rs.
1. Cost of jaggery @ 50 Rs/kg (90 x50) 4,500
2. Cost of gram flour @ 60 Rs/kg (90 x 60)5,400 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 80
S. No.ParticularsCost in Rs.
3. Electricity 1000
4. Labour 500
5. Total cost for 10000 l for 1 time 11,400
The cost for the production of Jeevamrit per liter is approximately Rs 1.14.
Model-3:
This model is suitable for FPOs, cooperatives and SHGs who are not rearing
livestock. Cow dung and urine may be collected from the FPO/SHG members
@ Rs. 0.70 - 1 /kg. The cost of establishment for automation plant of Jeevamrit
and the recurring costs of production are as given is Table 6.19 and Table 6.20.
Table 6.19: Establishment costs involved in Jeevamrit production Model-3.
S. No.ParticularsCost in Rs.
1
The construction cost of the water tank, mixing tank and Jeevam-
rit tanks
2,40,000
2 Installation of electric Motors 2 hp (3 nos.)30000
3 Cost of Air compressor15000
4 Cost of Mud Pump15000
5 Cost of accessories and fittings40000
6 Total cost of automation plant for Jeevamrit preparation 3,25,000
(Source: Authors’ Calculations)
Table 6.20: Establishment costs involved in Jeevamrit production Model-3.
S. No.ParticularsCost in Rs.
1.Cost of cow dung collection @ 1 Rs/kg 250
2.Cost of cow urine collection @ 1 Rs/l 250
3.Cost of jaggery @ 50 Rs/kg (45 x50)2250
4.Cost of gram flour @ 60 Rs/kg (45x 60)2700
5.Electricity3
6.Labour including transportation700
7.Total cost for preparing 5000 l Jeevamrit for 1 time 6,153
(Source: Authors’ Calculations) Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 81
The cost of production of Jeevamrit per liter in this model is approximately Rs. 1.23.
(ii) Ghanjeevamrit
Ghanjeevamrit can be produced with the following proposed model:
Model-I: For preparation of 100 kg Ghanjeevamrit (Table 6.21)
Table 6.21: Raw materials required for preparation of 100 kg Ghanjeevamrit
S. No.ParticularsQuantity
1.Indigenous cow dung100 kg
2.Indigenous cow urine5 litres
3.Jaggery1 kg
4.Gram flour (pigeon pea, gram, green gram or black gram)2 kg
• Ready for use in 2 days and can be stored upto 1 year.
• Dosage: When sowing or planting any crop, 320 kg/acre in the first year,
200 kg/acre in the second year and 80 kg/acre in subsequent years.
• BRCs can prepare and store this in off season.
• No specific infrastructure required other than an area for mixing and
storage.
Model-II: For preparation of 5000 kg Ghanjeevamrit
For 5000 kg Ghanjeevamrit , the requirement is of-
• 5000 kg cow dung
• 250 l cow urine
• 50 kg jaggery
• 100 kg gram flour
The associated costs may be referred to, from the Tables in Jeevamrit models.
(iii) Neemastra
The proposed model for the preparation of 1000 litres Neemastra at BRC
is as follows:
• 1 tank of 1000 l
• 9 kg cow dung
• 45 l cow urine
• 45 kg paste of neem leaves
• 900 l water
(iv) Bramhastra
1000 litres of Bramhastra can cater to approximately 125 – 200 acres. The
proposed model for Bramhastra preparation of 1000 litres is as given below: Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 82
• 1 tank of 1000 l:700 l of cow urine
• 70 kg of neem leaves
• 70 kg of karanj leaves
• 70 kg of sitafal leaves
• 70 kg of datura leaves
(v) Agniastra
1000 l of Agniastra can cater to approximately 125 – 200 acres. The proposed
model for Agniastra preparation of 1000 litres as as follows:
• 1 tank of 1000 l
• 740 l of cow urine
• 18.5 kg of chilli paste
• 18.5 kg of garlic paste
• 37 kg of neem paste
• 37 kg of chewing tobacco
(vi) Dashparni Ark
The proposed model for preparation of 1000 litres Dashparni Ark is as below
(Table 6.22). We need a 1000 litres tank. 1000 l Dashparni Ark can cater up
to 125 acres.
Table 6.22: Raw materials required for preparation of Dashparni Ark in 1000 l tank
S. No. Ingredients S. No. Ingredients
1. 850 l of water13.8.5 kg of belpatra leaves
2. 43 l cow urine14.8.5 kg of mango leaves
3. 8.5 kg cow dung15.8.5 kg of dhatura leaves
4. 2 kg turmeric powder 16.8.5 kg of basil leaves
5. 2 kg ginger paste17.8.5 kg of guava leaves
6. 45 gram asfoetida powder 18.8.5 kg of desi bitter gourd leaves
7. 4.25 kg of chewing tobacco powder19.8.5 kg of papaya leaves
8. 4.25 kg of spicy chilli paste20.8.5 kg of turmeric leaves
9. 2 kg of garlic paste 21.8.5 kg of ginger leaves
10. 8.5 kg of neem leaves 22.8.5 kg of acacia leaves
11. 8.5 kg of karanj leaves 23.8.5 kg of custard apple leaves
12. 8.5 kg of castor leaves 24.800 grams of ginger powder
Note: The first 5 ingredients are mandatory. The rest of the ingredients must be taken depend-
ing on the availability from 6 to 24. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 83
6.4 Schemes for Setting up of BRCs
The following ongoing schemes maybe converged for the setting up of BRCs:
• National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF): NMNF targets establishing 10,000
BRCs as local hubs for producing, supplying, and training in natural farming inputs
like bio-fertilizers and botanical extracts. Each Bio-Input Resource Centre (BRC)
receives financial assistance of ₹1 lakh.
• Central Sector Scheme “Formation and Promotion of 10,000 new Farmer Producer
Organisations (FPOs)” of Rs. 6865 crore by Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’
Welfare (M/o A&FW) wherein financial assistance of up to Rs. 18 lakhs is provided
per FPO.
• MGNREGA
• Mahila Kisan Sashakti karan Pariyojana (MKSP) under NRLM
References & Additional Readings
• National Centre for Organic and Natural Farming. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from https://ncof.
dacnet.nic.in/
• Regional Centre of Organic Farming. (n.d.). Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITKs) -
Crop-wise with reference to organic progressive farmers practices. Bhubaneswar, Odisha:
Regional Director. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 84 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 85
CHAPTER 7
Certification &
Marketing Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 86
7.1 Introduction
Certification is the formal process by which an accredited body provides written assurance
that a product, process, or service conforms to specified standards. Certification in natural
farming serves as a verifiable guarantee to consumers, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies that
farming practices meet stringent, predefined criteria for sustainability and chemical exclusion.
This process is important to establish credibility and transparency in the marketplace.
7.2 Importance of Certification
The role of certification extends beyond a label. It is an essential mechanism that establishes
the credibility and commercial viability of the entire organic ecosystem. Its primary functions
and benefits are as given below:
• Market Credibility and Consumer Confidence: A certification mark acts as
a trusted signal of quality and authenticity, distinguishing genuine products from
unsubstantiated claims and building consumer trust.
• Enhanced Market Access: Certification is often a prerequisite for entry into
premium domestic and international markets. For exports, a recognised certification
like the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) is mandatory.
• Process Integrity and Quality Assurance: The rigorous standards and mandatory
record-keeping enforce discipline and traceability throughout the supply chain,
ensuring the integrity of the agricultural process from farm to consumer.
• Price Premium and Economic Viability: Certified products typically command a
higher market price, providing farmers with a better return on their investment and
compensating for the transition to sustainable methods.
• Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture: Adherence to certification standards
inherently promotes practices that improve soil health, conserve biodiversity, and
protect the environment.
7.3 Major Certification Systems in India
Certification in India is primarily process-oriented, focusing on the methods of cultivation
and handling rather than solely on testing the final product. The principal systems are
designed to cater to different scales of operation and market destinations.
7.3.1 National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP)
The National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) represents India’s apex
regulatory framework for organic certification, established to ensure that products
meet globally recognised standards.
• Scope: This is India’s official and internationally recognised certification
program, primarily geared towards the export market. It was established in
2001 under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development
Authority (APEDA).
• Methodology: NPOP employs a third-party verification system.
Independent, accredited agencies conduct inspections and audits to ensure Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 87
compliance.
• Standard: The program’s standards are aligned with international benchmarks,
including those of the International Federation of Organic Agriculture
Movements (IFOAM), ensuring global acceptance.
• Designation: Products certified under this system are authorised to use the
“India Organic” seal. Due to its rigorous nature and associated costs, it is
predominantly used by large-scale producers and commercial enterprises.
7.3.2 Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) - India
As an alternative to the third-party model, the Participatory Guarantee System
(PGS) - India was developed as a community-centric quality assurance mechanism
tailored for small-scale farmers and domestic markets.
• Scope: PGS is an alternative certification framework designed specifically for
the domestic market, with a focus on small and marginal farmers.
• Methodology: It operates on a peer-review model where farmers in a local
group assess and verify each other’s practices. It is a first-party certification
system built on a foundation of collective trust.
• Principles: The system is founded on transparency, shared ownership, and
community participation. It is highly cost-effective, though the certification
process can take up to three years.
• Designation: PGS has its own distinct logo, recognised within India for
products sold domestically.
7.3.3 “In-Conversion to Organic” Certification
Recognizing that the transition from conventional to organic farming is not
immediate, the “In-Conversion” category provides a formal status for farms during
this interim period.
• Purpose: This is a transitional certification applicable to farms moving from
conventional to organic practices, a process that typically requires a 2-3 year
period.
• Function: It allows farmers to market their produce under a specific “in-
conversion” label during this transition. This provides early market access and
maintains transparency for consumers regarding the product’s status, aligning
with international standards like the Codex Alimentarius.
7.3.4 Residue-Free or Chemical-Free Certification
Distinct from the process-oriented organic certifications, Residue-Free or Chemical-
Free certification is a product-focused validation that concentrates on the final output.
• Focus: This certification’s primary goal is to validate that the final agricultural
produce is free of detectable pesticide residues. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 88
• Methodology: Verification is achieved primarily through end-product
laboratory testing. While farming practices are considered, the emphasis is on
the quantifiable absence of chemicals in the harvested product.
• Application: This serves as a direct assurance to consumers concerned about
chemical residues and can function as an intermediate step for farmers aspiring
to achieve full organic status.
7.4 How to Apply for Certification
The process for obtaining certification depends on the system a farmer or group chooses to
adopt. Each system has a structured application and verification path to ensure standards are
met. The following outlines the general steps for applying under the primary certification
systems available in India.
7.4.1 Applying for Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) - India
The PGS certification process is a peer driven and community managed system.
Farmers who wish to get certified must follow a series of collective actions as
depicted in Fig. 7.1.
24
Form a Local Group: The first
step is to form a local group or
cluster with a minimum of five
farmers. An ideal group size is
between 50 to 100 members, which
allows for effective cooperation
and management.
Group Registration: The group must
select a leader and register with the
designated Regional Council. Each farmer
in the group is required to fill out a
self-declaration form, making a formal
commitment to practice natural farming
according to the prescribed standards.
Peer Inspection: The core of the PGS process
is peer appraisal. An inspection team of at
least three members from within the group is
formed. This team inspects the farm of each
member to verify that the practices align with
the self-declaration and natural farming
standards.
Form a Local Group: The first step is to
form a local group or cluster with a
minimum of five farmers. An ideal group
size is between 50 to 100 members, which
allows for effective cooperation and
management.
Training and Meetings: All members must
attend regular training programs to
understand natural farming practices and
PGS certification procedures. The group
must conduct regular meetings for planning
inspections and making decisions, with
each member required to attend at least half
of the meetings annually.
Fig. 7.1: Stepwise Process of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Certification under PGS-India
24 efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://pgsindia-ncof.gov.in/Default/assets/front/PDF/Revised_PGS_India_Guidlines.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 89
7.4.2 Applying for National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP)
The NPOP certification process is a more formal, third party system, which is
essential for farmers and businesses aiming for the export market.
25
(i) Select an Accredited Agency: The applicant, either an individual farmer
or a producer group, must choose a certification agency that is accredited
by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development
Authority (APEDA).
(ii) Submit an Application: The applicant must submit a detailed application
to the chosen agency. This includes providing comprehensive information
about the farm, its operational history, and a complete organic system plan.
(iii) On-Site Inspection: The agency appoints a trained inspector to conduct
a physical inspection of the farm. The inspector verifies that the farming
practices comply with the NPOP standards, examines records, and assesses
for any risk of contamination.
(iv) Review and Certification: After the inspection, the agency reviews
the inspector’s report. If all requirements are met, the agency grants the
certification. This allows the producer to use the official “India Organic” seal
on their products, which is a mark of authenticity in international markets.
7.5 Marketing of Natural Farming Produce
Once natural farming gains traction in the country, it is expected that the produce may fetch
at least equal or even higher renumeration owing to its pro-health benefits. Therefore, the
potential market for organic farming produce shall also serve as the potential market for
natural farming produce. Domestic as well as external trade ecosystems have to be aligned
in support of the produce.
Recent studies highlight that certification not only opens access to premium domestic and
international markets but also strengthens consumer trust, especially when coupled with
transparent labelling and traceability (Shukla et al., 2021; Singh et al., 2022). Marketing
connects your farm to buyers and ensures your hard work is rewarded. Farmers can use
multiple strategies to reach consumers, institutions, and markets.
7.5.1 Institutional Markets
(i) Temples and Religious Institutions: For example, farmers supported by
RySS and CSA supply natural produce to the Tirupati Temple. This gives
steady demand and fair pricing.
(ii) Public Distribution System (PDS): Under Odisha Millet Mission,
naturally grown millets are procured for distribution. Farmers get
guaranteed markets and consumers get safe, nutritious food.
(iii) Schools and Anganwadi Centres: Linking natural produce to mid-day
meal schemes and nutrition programs ensures continuous demand
25 https://apeda.gov.in/national-programme-for-organic-production-npop Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 90
7.5.2 Farmer – Consumer Connect
(i) Farmers’ Markets: Direct markets in towns and cities let farmers sell
their produce without middlemen. Prices are higher and consumers can ask
questions about the produce.
(ii) Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): Consumers subscribe to
receive regular baskets of fresh produce. Farmers get guaranteed income,
and consumers get chemical-free food.
(iii) Food Festivals and Exhibitions: Events like Amrut Aahar help farmers
showcase products, educate consumers about health benefits, and create
strong local demand.
7.5.3 Value Addition and Branding
(i) Clean, grade, and pack produce to make it more appealing.
(ii) Convert raw produce into simple products like flour, pickles, or snacks.
This increases income and shelf life.
(iii) Farmer groups can create simple brands emphasizing chemical-free and
local origin. Examples: “Natural Millets of Odisha” or “Pesticide-Free
Mangoes of Andhra Pradesh.”
(iv) Using attractive labels, mentioning local origin, and displaying certification
logos builds consumer trust.
Some success stories such as Tirupati temple model, Odisha Millet Mission, Amrut
Aahar Festival, are a testimony of good marketing strategies.
7.5.4 E-Commerce and Digital Marketing
Farmers can now reach more consumers and get better prices using digital tools and
e-commerce platforms. This helps sell produce beyond local markets and increases
income opportunities.
(i) Online Marketplaces: Platforms like BigBasket, Amazon Fresh, or
regional e-commerce portals allow farmers or farmer groups to sell directly
to urban consumers.
(ii) Social Media Promotion: Sharing photos, short videos, or stories about
your farm and produce on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube
builds trust and attracts buyers.
(iii) Direct Delivery Models: Farmers can offer home delivery to nearby towns
or cities using subscription models or advance orders. This is similar to
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) but done digitally.
(iv) Digital Payments: Using mobile banking or UPI ensures smooth and safe
transactions. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 91
Benefits of Digital Marketing:
• Expands customer reach beyond villages and local towns.
• Builds awareness about the benefits of chemical-free and natural foods.
• Reduces dependence on middlemen and increases farmers’ share of profits.
• Helps track orders, maintain customer relationships, and plan production according to
demand.
7.5.5 Practical Tips for Easy Marketing
(i) Form or join Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) or cooperatives to
collectively sell produce.
(ii) Explore institutional markets like temples, schools, hospitals, and
government procurement programs.
(iii) Use simple post-harvest practices like grading, cleaning, and basic
packaging to make produce more attractive.
(iv) Participate in food festivals, fairs, and farmers’ markets to build relationships
with consumers.
(v) Maintain records and certification through PGS or third-party systems.
This shows credibility and helps in getting premium prices.
(vi) Try value addition like milling, drying, or simple processing to increase
income.
(vii) Use digital tools to reach urban consumers or health-conscious buyers.
References & Additional Readings
• Meemken, E. M., & Bellemare, M. F. (2020). Smallholder farmers and certification: Im-
pacts on incomes, yields, and welfare. Annual Review of Resource Economics, 12, 439–460.
https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-resource-103019-105856
• Mohanty, B., Kumar, R., & Mishra, A. (2021). Mainstreaming millets for nutrition security:
Insights from the Odisha Millet Mission. Current Science, 121(3), 345–352.
• Shukla, R., Patel, N., & Singh, S. (2021). Participatory Guarantee Systems: A sustainable ap-
proach to organic certification in India. Journal of Cleaner Production, 320, 128882. https://
doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.128882
• Singh, S., Bera, S., & Singh, R. (2022). Certification and market development of organic
and natural foods in India: Opportunities and challenges. Agricultural Economics Research
Review, 35(1), 1–12. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 92 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 93
CHAPTER 8
Best Practices for
Key Crops Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 94
In this chapter, farmers will find a comprehensive package of best practices for key crops specifically
grown under natural farming systems. It provides step-by-step guidance for each crop from seed
selection and traditional seed treatment to soil preparation, sowing, nutrient management, pest
and disease control, and harvesting. The recommendations are tailored to different agro-climatic
conditions, helping farmers achieve optimum yields while preserving soil fertility, enhancing
biodiversity, and eliminating dependence on synthetic inputs. This chapter serves as a practical,
ready-to-use guide for producing nutritious, chemical free food in a sustainable manner.
8.1 Amla
26
Fig 8.1: Amla Crop
(i) Climate and soil suitability
• Amla is grown in hilly areas and tropical forest regions.
• It can also grow in poor, medium, and saline soils.
• Amla is grown under rainfed conditions.
• In autumn (December–January), the tree sheds its leaves.
• In spring (February–March), new leaves and flowers emerge.
• Fruits start forming 10–15 days after flowering.
• After fruit formation, the tree remains dormant for about 100 days.
• Fruit growth occurs in the rainy season, and after the monsoon fruits ripen in
October–November.
• The Amla tree can survive even in severe drought conditions - this is its special
characteristic.
• It can be planted as an intercrop between desi mango or tamarind trees.
(ii) Protection from heat and cold
• The Amla tree can tolerate heat and cold.
• But the small plant needs protection from heat and cold.
26 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 95
• For this, pigeon pea and pearl millet should be planted two feet away from the
periphery of the Amla tree.
(iii) Varieties
• Available varieties: Banarasi, Chakaiya, Kanchan (NA-4), Krishna (NA-5),
NA-6, NA-7, Anand-1 and Anand-2.
(iv) Propagation method
• Amla can be grown from seeds, approach grafting, and softwood grafting.
• In North India, Amla grafting is done through budding, which is planted at the
designated place.
• Budding method gives 70–80% success.
• For seeds, collect fruits of desi Amla and dry them in sunlight.
• On average, six seeds come out of one fruit, which come out on their own
when dried in sunlight.
• The seeds are sieved and kept in a cloth bag and dried in sunlight every week.
(v) Planting system
• Amla is planted at a distance of 24 feet x 24 feet.
• Between every four Amla trees, one plant of custard apple, papaya, or curry
leaf is planted.
• Between two Amla or between Amla and intercrop (custard apple, papaya,
curry leaf), prepare a pit of 1.5 feet x 1.5 feet x 1.5 feet for drumstick.
• In these pits keep a mixture of 4 parts soil and 3 parts Ghanjeevamrit, and
along with Beejamrit and Jeevamrit, put custard apple, papaya, curry leaf,
drumstick, and castor seeds.
(vi) In-situ grafting method
• Instead of preparing plants in the nursery, sow seeds at the permanent place
itself and do grafting there after germination.
• With this method, roots go deep, and production is possible even without
irrigation during drought.
• This also protects Amla from strong winds.
• For grafting, choose a rootstock at least one year old.
• Select high-yielding healthy trees and also plant 5–10% desi Amla trees along
with them.
• Do not do grafting on desi trees.
(vii) Budding method
• Choose a bud for budding from a six-month-old branch.
• Cut a piece of bark 2.5 cm long and 1.0 cm wide with a bud on it, using a sharp knife. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 96
• Remove a piece of bark of the same size from the rootstock one foot above the
soil and place the bud piece on it.
• Tie with a polythene strip, do not damage the bud.
• After 20–25 days, if the bud remains green then the graft is successful.
• Cut off the part above the graft so that new sprouting comes out from the bud.
(viii) Use of Jeevamrit
• During monsoon, one month after grafting, apply Jeevamrit to each plant once
or twice.
• Even after the monsoon, applying Jeevamrit makes production possible even
in drought.
• Apply 200–400 litres of Jeevamrit per acre with irrigation water once or twice
a month.
• If cow dung of desi cow or bull is available, Ghanjeevamrit will give more
benefit.
Foliar spray
• For two months after planting, spray 5 litres of Jeevamrit mixed in 100 litres
of water per acre.
• For the next two months, spray 10 litres of Jeevamrit mixed in 150 litres of
water.
• Until fruit formation, spray 20 litres of Jeevamrit mixed in 200 litres of water
per acre.
(ix) Mulching and intercropping
• Amla is a rainfed crop, so mulching is necessary.
• Use drumstick and cowpea as mulching.
• Sow cucumber, bitter gourd, bottle gourd, and watermelon in between.
• Layers of Jeevamrit will generate microorganisms and earthworms which will
store nutrients near the roots.
• Between every two rows, make a trench 3 feet wide and 1.5 feet deep and
mulch with dry grass.
• This will stop evaporation of rainwater and roots will get water from the soil.
(x) Tree structure
• In Amla, due to heavy fruiting, branches break.
• Therefore, keep a single stem up to 75 cm and then let four strong branches
grow in four directions.
(xi) Crop protection
• Amla has less incidence of diseases and pests. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 97
• If disease or pests are seen, spray Neemastra, Brahmastra, Agniastra,
Soonthastra, or sour buttermilk.
8.1.1 Shri Ram Gopal Singh Chandel, Uttar Pradesh
Shri Ram Gopal Singh Chandel, resident of Barsawan village, Raebareli district,
Uttar Pradesh, is a progressive farmer, who has developed a prosperous and inspiring
model by moving beyond traditional farming through the integration of natural
farming, agroforestry, and medicinal crops. He adopted the cultivation of crops like
paddy, wheat, mustard, and gram along with mango, Amla, sweet lime, jackfruit,
broccoli, capsicum, tomato, and medicinal crops like brahmi and moringa. His farm
has been certified by Uttar Pradesh State Organic Certification Institute, Lucknow.
Shri Chandel adopted methods of nutrient management such as Beejamrit, Jeevamrit,
and Ghanjeevamrit, along with pest control methods through Neemastra and
Brahmastra. He made wheat and paddy sowing more effective by using modern
techniques like super-seeder, seed drill, and drum seeder. He achieved efficiency
in water management through drip and sprinkler irrigation systems.
From natural farming of Amla in 0.4 hectare, Shri Chandel obtained 22 quintals of
production at a cost of ₹7,500 and earned a total profit of ₹39,600. Net profit was
₹32,100 and the benefit-cost ratio was 4.28. Whereas in traditional farming the cost
was ₹9,600, production was 19 quintals, and net profit was only ₹24,600, in which
the benefit-cost ratio was 2.56.
This comparison shows that natural farming not only reduces production cost but
also increases production and profit. Along with this, improvement in soil fertility
and assurance of sustainable agricultural development was ensured.
8.2 Apple
27
Fig 8.2: Apple Crop
27 Package of Practices for Apple based system under Natural farming approved during State level workshop for cultivation in the state by Dr
YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Himachal Pradesh Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 98
(i) Whapsa (Moisture Conservation in Soil)
• Make 4–5 inch deep furrows and cover with dry grass mulch, so that moisture
is locked in the soil.
• Apply/irrigate with Jeevamrit, which increases the number of microorganisms
in the soil, helps in decomposition of organic matter, releases nutrients, and
increases soil fertility.
(ii) Mulching
• Cover the plant basins with dry grass mulch and cover the space between
basins with live mulch.
(iii) Intercrops
• Winter crops such as pea (October/November–April/May) and urad (October/
November–May) should be planted, which fix atmospheric nitrogen in the
soil; and garlic (October–March) should be cultivated, which acts as an insect
repellent.
• Long-term crops such as wheat/barley (October/November–May); finger
millet (May–November); turmeric and ginger (April–December) should be
cultivated, which keep the soil covered for a long time and provide protection.
• Summer crops such as beans (February–July), which fix nitrogen in the soil.
• Rainy season crops such as kidney bean and pea (July–November) should
be cultivated, which fix nitrogen in the soil; cabbage (July–November) uses
residual moisture; marigold (July–October) acts as a trap crop.
• Multi-season crops such as fenugreek (March–May, August–October,
November–February) fix nitrogen and provide continuous soil cover.
(iv) Bio-applications for Nutrition and Disease/Pest Management
• Bio-applications in soil
»Irrigate with Jeevamrit at an interval of 21 days:
»In M9 rootstock plants: 2 litres/plant
»In M7/MM111/seedling plants: 5 litres/plant
»During field preparation, apply Ghanjeevamrit:
»In rootstock plants: 200 grams/plant
»In seedling plants: 400 grams/plant
»During intercrop: 1 quintal/bigha
• Bio-applications for foliar spray
»Jeevamrit: 10 litres in 100 litres of water
»Sour buttermilk: 5 litres in 100 litres of water
»Ramban: 7 litres Jeevamrit and 3 litres buttermilk mixed with 100 litres water
»Sonthastra: without dilution Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 99
»Darekastra: without dilution
»Agniastra: 5 litres in 100 litres of water
»Brahmastra: 5 litres in 100 litres of water
»Dashparni Ark: 5 litres in 100 litres of water
The management schedule for apple orchards under natural farming is as given
in Table 8.5.
Table 8.1: Month-wise Management Schedule for Apple Orchards Under Natural Farming
MonthActivities
JanuarySpraying of Jeevamrit at 21-day intervals; pruning; application of plant paste
February
Spraying of Jeevamrit at 21-day intervals; pruning; sowing of bean intercrop,
harvesting of fenugreek intercrop
March
Application of plant paste, sowing of fenugreek, harvesting of pea and garlic
intercrops, spraying of oils such as neem oil, application of Ghanjeevamrit, mulching
with dry grass and intercrop residues
April
Spraying of Saptdhanya extract at 80% flowering and fruit setting, installation of
hail nets, thinning of fruits, weeding
May
Cutting of lateral plants, harvesting of fenugreek intercrops, application of plant paste
in the second or third week of May, thinning of fruits; application of insecticidal
astras (Darek Astra, Brahmastra, Agniastra)
June
Mulching with dry grass, weeding; cutting of lateral branches; spreading and bending
of branches; application of insecticidal astras (Darek Astra, Brahmastra, Agniastra)
July
Weeding and application of Ghanjeevamrit; cutting of lateral branches; spreading
and bending of branches; application of insecticidal astras ( Darek Astra,
Brahmastra, Agniastra)
August
Sowing of kidney bean, harvesting of bean, harvesting of apple fruits, weeding;
cutting of lateral branches; spreading and bending of branches; application of
insecticidal astras (Darek Astra, Brahmastra, Agniastra)
September
Application of plant paste in the last week of the month, weeding-hoeing; spreading
and bending of branches
October
Sowing of pea and garlic, harvesting of kidney bean, application of plant paste in
the first week Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 100
MonthActivities
NovemberField preparation for the next fruiting season; sowing of pea
December
Field preparation for the next fruiting season; application of Ghanjeevamrit;
application of plant paste, spraying of Jeevamrit at 21-day intervals
8.3 Banana
28
Fig 8.3: Banana Crop
(i) Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing
• Before planting banana, sow at least 9 types of crops (pulses, oilseeds, millets,
vegetables, and leafy vegetables, etc.) from April/May to the first week of
August.
• The objective is to ensure greenery in the field throughout the year and that the
soil is never left bare (365-day green cover policy).
(ii) Intercropping and Multicropping System
• During the initial 2–3 months after planting, it is essential to promote
intercropping and multicropping combinations.
• Intercrops: moong, urad, marigold, leafy vegetables, cluster beans, tomato, etc.
• In later stages, shade-tolerant tuber crops such as turmeric, suran, arvi, ginger,
and vine crops can be planted on the boundaries.
• After banana planting, sow Navadhanya in the inter-rows and incorporate it
into the soil within 30–45 days. This helps in:
»Conserving soil moisture
»Controlling weeds
28 https://www.manage.gov.in/nf/pptspdfs/apcnf-gujarat.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 101
»Reducing irrigation needs
»Improving soil fertility
(iii) Treatment of Planting Material (Sword Sucker)
• Remove the roots and basal part of the planting material.
• The sucker should weigh around 450–700 grams with an actively growing
cone-shaped bud.
• Keep the sucker in Beejamrit for 30 minutes before planting.
(iv) Planting Distance
• Normal varieties: Row to row – 6 feet, Plant to plant – 6 feet
• Dwarf varieties: Row to row – 6 feet, Plant to plant – 5 feet
(v) Organic Nutrient Management
(vi) Ghanjeevamrit
• At the time of planting, apply 5–10 kg per pit along with Neem cake – 1 kg
• Per pit 1 kg: 500 gms at planting time
• 500 gms after 40–50 days
(vii) Jeevamrit (after planting in days)
• Soil application: 11 times @200 litres per acre – at 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150,
180, 210, 240, 255, and 270 days after planting
• Foliar spray: 7 times @30-day interval:
»45 days after planting – 15 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 200 litres water
»75 days after planting – 20 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 200 litres water
»105 days after planting – 25 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 200 litres water
»135 days after planting – 30 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 200 litres water
»165 days after planting – 40 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 200 litres water
»195 days after planting – 50 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 200 litres water
»225 days after planting – 50 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 200 litres water
(viii) Growth Promoters
• Panchagavya:
»Quantity: 4 litres/acre mixed with 100 litres water
»Spray 3 times:
5–6 months after planting with Jeevamrit (before flowering)
7–8 months after planting with Jeevamrit (at flowering stage)
Before fruit ripening: fill 250 ml in each polythene cover and tie to
the bunch Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 102
(ix) Agricultural Operations
• Weeding: at 30, 60, 90, and 120 days
• De-suckering: up to 7–8 months
• Cleaning of dry leaves: do not remove green leaves
• Mulching: use paddy husk and dried banana leaves @12–13 kg per plant
• Earthing up: 3–4 months after planting
• Propping: 7–8 months after planting, provide support using bamboo or
eucalyptus poles
• Cleaning of undeveloped bananas: remove incomplete bananas to improve
quality and weight
• Bunch covering: cover with dry leaves to protect from sun and improve quality
• Do not do this during rainy season
(x) S2S Kit and Pest Management (Table 8.4)
Table 8.2: S2S Kit and Pest Management for Banana
ComponentDetails
Intercrops Leafy vegetables, cluster beans, tomato, turmeric, suran, arvi, ginger,
bottle gourd, marigold
Border crop Subabul
Yellow sticky traps20–25/acre
Light trap 1 per acre
Monitoring Regular monitoring with Jeevamrit is essential
8.3.1 Mr. Dixit Patel, Gujarat
Mr. Dixit B. Patel, a resident of Sangrampura village in Khedbrahma taluka of
Sabarkantha district, Gujarat, is a progressive farmer with a B.E. degree in Electronics.
He has developed a model that integrates scientific thinking with natural farming,
balancing low cost, high quality, and environmental sustainability. Since 2016, he
has been cultivating G-9 variety bananas, pulses (as intercrops), and more than 25
types of vegetables using natural methods. He practices mulching with grasses and
crop residues available on the farm and adopts the “Parivar Kisan Concept” to train
farmers at the village level.
Mr. Patel’s natural farming has produced remarkable results both economically
and ecologically. From one hectare of banana cultivation, he obtained 100 quintals
of yield, with an expenditure of only ₹40,000 and a net profit of ₹3,60,000. In
contrast, conventional farming yielded 70 quintals, with an expenditure of ₹1,75,000
and a net profit of ₹2,05,000. The benefit-cost ratio in natural farming was 9.0,
compared to only 1.17 in conventional farming. His fruits and vegetables had
better taste and quality, which also improved consumers’ immunity. Enhanced soil
health and reduced greenhouse gas emissions contributed to mitigating the effects
of global warming. Mr. Patel’s journey demonstrates that with technical expertise, Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 103
environmental commitment, and farmer-driven initiatives, agriculture can be made
sustainable and a means of community development.
8.4 Castor
29
Fig 8.4: Castor Crop
(i) Land Preparation
• During field preparation, apply 800 kg of Ghanjeevamrit per acre by mixing it
with soil in first year, 500 kg in second year and 200 kg in subsequent years.
(ii) Varieties
• Recommended varieties for Gujarat: GCH-1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7.
(iii) Spacing
• In less fertile soil under rainfed conditions: 90 cm x 60 cm
• In irrigated conditions: 90 cm x 20 cm
• In fertile soil: 120 cm x 60 cm
(iv) Seed Rate
• 8–10 kg per hectare
(v) Seed Treatment
• Treat seeds with Beejamrit to protect against seed-borne and soil-borne
diseases.
(vi) Sowing Time
• The best sowing time is around 15
th
August
(vii) Irrigation Management
• Castor is a deep-rooted crop and can extract water from deeper soil layers.
29 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 104
Therefore, irrigation should be heavy but less frequent.
• For higher yield, provide 2–3 heavy irrigations wherever possible.
• Under irrigated conditions, after the monsoon ends, irrigate every 15–20 days,
3–4 times.
(viii) Application of Jeevamrit
• Mix 5 litres of Jeevamrit in 100 litres of water and spray it on foliage after one
month of the sowing.
• Mix 7.5 litres of Jeevamrit in 120 litres of water and spray it on foliage 21
days after the first spray.
• Mix 10 litres of Jeevamrit in 150 litres of water and spray it on foliage 21 days
after the second spray.
• Mix 15 litres of Jeevamrit in 150 litres of water and spray it on foliage 21 days
after the third spray.
• Mix 3 litres of sour buttermilk in 100 litres of water and spray it on foliage 21
days after the fourth spray.
• Mix15 litters of Jeevamrit in 150 litres of water and spray it on foliage after
21 days of fifth spray.
(ix) Mixed / Intercropping
• Castor + Sunflower (1:2)
• Castor + Soybean (1:1)
• Castor + Cluster bean (2:1)
• Castor + Groundnut (1:3)
(x) Mulching
• Mulching with crop residues is recommended in castor fields.
(xi) Crop Protection Measures
• For sucking pests (like thrips and whitefly) in the early stage: Spray Neemastra
@ 200 litres per acre.
• For caterpillars and other insects: Spray Dashparni Ark or Agniastra @ 7.5
litres + 250 litres water.
• For fungal diseases in castor: Use sour buttermilk or Sonthastra @ 7.5 litres +
250 litres water for best results.
8.4.1 Success Story: Shri Ashok Kumar, Haryana
Shri Ashok Kumar of Lokra village, Gurugram district, has demonstrated that
revolutionary changes in agriculture are possible through natural farming. His Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 105
deep commitment to environmental sustainability inspired him to adopt Jeevamrit
and neem-based bio-pesticides, which provided effective control over pests and
diseases. Through intercropping vegetables between rows of castor, he enhanced
land productivity and diversified income sources.
In castor cultivation alone, he earned a net profit of ₹1,45,000, ompared to ₹1,25,524
under conventional farming. The benefit-cost ratio also stood at 2.02, higher than
the conventional method’s 1.9. Similar trends were observed in other crops such
as bottle gourd, black wheat, and broccoli. His practices reduced farming costs,
increased production, and saved both time and labor.
8.5 Cotton
30
Fig 8.5: Cotton Crop
(i) Land Preparation
• Apply 800 kg of Ghanjeevamrit per acre to the soil before sowing seeds,
during first year, 500 kgs in second year, and 200 kgs in subsequent years.
(ii) Varieties / Spacing
• Both desi (local) and improved varieties can be used.
• Spacing between two rows: 90 cm – 120 cm x 30 cm – 45 cm.
• Seed rate for desi varieties: 8–10 kg per hectare.
(iii) Seed Treatment
• Seeds should be treated with Beejamrit to protect against soil-borne and seed-
borne diseases such as anthracnose, black arm of cotton, root rot, and seedling rot.
(iv) Sowing Time
• During the monsoon season - June to July.
30 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 106
(v) Application of Jeevamrit
• After sowing, apply 200 litres of Jeevamrit per acre along with irrigation.
• Thereafter, apply 200 litres of Jeevamrit per acre at 15-day intervals every
month with irrigation water.
(vi) Jeevamrit / Spraying of Saptdhanyankur
• First spray: One month after planting, mix 5 litres of Jeevamrit in 100 litres
of water.
• Second spray: 21 days after the first spray, mix 7.5 litres of Jeevamrit in 120
litres of water.
• Third spray: 21 days after the second spray, mix 10 litres of Jeevamrit in 150
litres of water.
• Fourth spray: 21 days after the third spray, mix 15 litres of Jeevamrit in 150
litres of water.
• Fifth spray: 21 days after the fourth spray, mix 3 litres of sour buttermilk in
100 litres of water.
• Sixth spray: 21 days after the fifth spray, mix 15 litres of Jeevamrit in 150
litres of water.
(vii) Intercropping
• Castor, maize, marigold, sesame, green gram, soybean, moth bean, etc., are
sown as intercrops.
(viii) Mulching
• After sowing of seeds, crop residues are used for mulching.
(ix) Crop Protection Measures
• If insect eggs or larvae appear on leaves: Spray 3 litres of Brahmastra + 3
litres of Agniastra in 200 litres of water.
• Control of sucking pests: Spray 200 litres of Neemastra per acre.
• Nematode control: Soil drenching with 8% Brahmastra solution (8 litres per
100 litres of water).
• Fungus/Virus control: Spray 3–4 days old buttermilk mixed with 100 litres of water.
• Control of pink bollworm and jassids: Spray 5–7 litres of Brahmastra in 200
litres of water.
• Caterpillar control: Spray 7.5 litres of Agniastra in 250 litres of water.
(x) Harvesting Stages
• Cotton picking should be done in the morning, as due to moisture, dry leaves
and other debris do not stick to cotton. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 107
• Hand-picking is the best and most suitable method, which should be done at
regular intervals.
• To achieve higher yield, 3–4 pickings should be carried out at regular intervals.
8.6 Cumin
31

Fig 8.6: Cumin Crop
(i) Land Preparation
• Field preparation for cumin sowing is done after the harvest of Kharif
groundnut.
• Cumin is a medium-duration crop; therefore, apply 250–300 kg Ghanjeevamrit
per acre along with neem cake, before sowing.
(ii) Variety Selection
• Crop duration: 90–100 days
(iii) Spacing
• The common method of sowing is broadcasting, but it is recommended to use
seed drill for line sowing.
(iv) Seed Rate
• 15–16 kg per hectare
(v) Seed Treatment
• Treat seeds with Beejamrit and dry them in shade for 3–4 hours before sowing.
• Sowing is done with the help of a seed drill.
(vi) Time of Sowing
• Optimum sowing period: 1st to 15th November.
(vii) Nutrient Management
• First spray: On the next day after sowing
31 https://naturalfarming.niti.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Package-of-Practices-Gujarat-.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 108
• Second spray: On the 7
th
day after sowing
• Third application: One month after sowing, apply 200 litres Jeevamrit with
irrigation
• Fourth spray: At flowering stage (around 45 days), spray Saptadhanyankur
extract to improve seed quality and size
• Fifth application: 65 days after sowing, apply 200 litres Jeevamrit
(viii) Jeevamrit Spray
• At the time of the third irrigation, spray 1 litre Jeevamrit mixed with 15 litres
water.
• After that, spray Jeevamrit at 15-day intervals, 3–4 times during the crop cycle.
(ix) Crop Protection Measures
• Termite control: Apply a mixture of 1 kg Dhatura leaves + 1 kg Aakda leaves
+ 30 litres cow dung slurry + 1 kg gram flour + 2–3 kg Mrida with irrigation.
• Alternaria blight management: On appearance of symptoms, spray 7–10
days old buttermilk.
• Sucking pests and caterpillar control: Spray cow urine, neem oil, Neemastra,
or Dashparni Ark.
• Fungal disease control: Use old buttermilk or Sonthastra (ginger extract).
8.7 Custard Apple
32
Fig 8.7: Custard Apple Crop
(i) Medicinal properties
• The leaves of custard apple have insect-resistant properties, and from these,
decoctions like Brahmastra, Dashparni extract, Neemastra are prepared.
• Its seeds contain about 30% oil, which can be used for making insecticides.
• The cake made from the seeds contains 40% nitrogen and is suitable for
applying to the soil.
32 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 109
(ii) Propagation method
• Select an elite tree for seed collection.
• If selection is not possible, then buy good quality fruits from the market at a
higher price. By doing this, good yield can be obtained in the future.
• Without grafting this is not possible, but in natural farming the size, taste, and
sweetness of all fruits are obtained from seeds themselves.
(iii) Intercropping system
• Plant custard apple as an intercrop between mango, tamarind, or Amla.
• Keep a distance of 36 feet between two tamarind or desi mango trees.
• Plant one Amla tree between every four tamarind or mango trees.
• Plant one custard apple plant between every tamarind/mango and Amla.
• Also plant a drumstick tree between these two fruits.
• Sow mango, tamarind, Amla, custard apple, and drumstick seeds at the
designated place.
(iv) Method of sowing seeds
• After eating the pulp of custard apple, dry the seeds in shade and sow after
three months, because the seeds have dormancy.
• Seeds extracted in October–November can be sown in June.
• Soak the seeds in Jeevamrit for 48–72 hours before sowing.
(v) Pit preparation
• Dig pits of size 1.5 feet x 1.5 feet x 1.5 feet at the designated places in the
orchard.
• In the pit, mix 4 parts soil, 2 parts sieved cow dung manure, and 1 part
Ghanjeevamrit, and fill this mixture in each pit.
• Spray Jeevamrit on it and cover with dry grass.
• With rainwater or light irrigation, germination will occur in a few days.
• After germination, remove the dry grass.
(vi) Use of Jeevamrit
• Mix 5 litres of filtered Jeevamrit in 100 litres of water and spray on plants.
• Apply Jeevamrit into the soil around the plants twice a month.
• From the day of sowing custard apple seeds, also sow cowpea seeds at a
distance of 2 feet.
• Remove weeds for the first three months and use them for mulching. Vegetables
can be planted wherever space is available. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 110
(vii) Flowering and fruiting
• It takes 35 days for the flower bud to develop fully.
• Excessive flowering occurs in June–July.
• Fruits mature in 4.5 to 5 months - from September to November.
• Mix 20 litres of cloth-filtered Jeevamrit in 200 litres of water per acre and
spray at least once a month on custard apple trees.
• There should be partial shade over custard apple, which can be obtained from
drumstick trees.
(viii) Harvesting
• Harvesting of fruits takes place between September and November.
(ix) Crop protection
• Pests that damage custard apple: Mealybug, fruit borer, caterpillar, fruit fly,
scale insect, lac insect, whitefly, nematode, root-knot nematode.
• Control them by spraying Brahmastra, Neemastra, and Agniastra.
• For nematode control, planting flower crops like marigold is necessary, its
roots contain a substance called alphaterthoneil which controls nematodes.
• Diseases of fruits and leaves can be prevented and controlled by spraying
Jeevamrit, sour buttermilk, and Sonthastra.
8.8 Gram
33
Fig 8.8: Gram Crop
(i) Land Preparation
• Under normal monsoon conditions, plough the field crosswise 1–2 times. This
helps retain soil moisture.
• If the monsoon arrives late, prepare the field with a single ploughing.
• During winter months, apply 200–500 litres of Jeevamrit per acre.
• If the field has not been given presowing irrigation, 200–400 kg of Ghanjeevamrit
per acre is applied.
33 https://naturalfarming.niti.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Package-of-Practices-Gujarat-.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 111
(ii) Variety Selection, Spacing, and Seed Rate
• Gujarat Desi Gram-3 and Gujarat Desi Gram-5 are high-yielding varieties.
They show moderate tolerance to pests and diseases and are popular among
farmers. Hence, these are prioritised in natural farming as per Table 8.1.
Table 8.3: Variety Selection, Spacing, and Seed Rate for Gram
VarietySpacing (cm) Seed Rate (kg/ha)
Gujarat Chana-14570–90
Gujarat Chana-230–4580–100
Gujarat Chana-310–15100
Gujarat Chana-54560
(iii) Seed Treatment
• Treat seeds with Beejamrit to prevent soil-borne diseases such as root rot and
seedling rot.
• Treatment should be done one night before sowing. Dry the seeds overnight
and sow them the next morning.
(iv) Time of Sowing
• Optimal sowing period: 15 October to 15 November
(v) Irrigation Management
• If the field has remained waterlogged throughout the monsoon, no irrigation
is required.
(vi) Application of Jeevamrit in Soil
• After sowing, apply 200 litres of Jeevamrit per acre with irrigation water.
• Thereafter, apply 200 litres of Jeevamrit twice a month with irrigation water.
(vii) Jeevamrit Spraying Schedule
• 30 days after sowing: 12.5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 250 litres water
• 51 days after sowing: 19 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 300 litres water
• 72 days after sowing: 25 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 375 litres water
• 83 days after sowing: 37.5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 375 litres water
• 104 days after sowing: 7.5 litres sour buttermilk mixed with 250 litres water
(viii) Crop Protection Measures
• Spray 5 litres Agniastra per acre to protect the crop from caterpillars, 21 days
after sowing.
• Aphids and other sucking pests can be effectively controlled with Dashparni
Ark, Brahmastra, Agniastra, Neemastra, etc. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 112
• Diseases like bacterial blight, fusarium wilt, and root rot can be controlled
using Sonthastra (ginger extract) and castor cake.
8.8.1 Shri Shailendra Kumar, Haryana
Shri Shailendra Kumar, a graduate (B.Sc.) and a progressive farmer from Uplana
village, Assandh block, Karnal district, Haryana, has achieved remarkable success
in natural cultivation of Kabuli chickpea (HC-5).
He adopted the HC-5 variety and used a multi-crop seed drill for mechanised
sowing. Paddy residues were managed through farm mechanisation, while fertility
was enhanced using green manures such as Dhaincha and moong. Shri Kumar
eliminated the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides by relying on natural
inputs such as cow dung, cow urine, Beejamrit, Jeevamrit, Agniastra, and neem oil.
A comparison of natural and conventional farming on one hectare revealed significant
differences. In natural farming, he harvested 15.5 quintals, earning a net profit of
₹68,718 with a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 6.65. In conventional farming, yield was
13 quintals with a net profit of ₹43,760 and a BCR of 1.94. His methods reduced
cultivation costs, saved time and labor, improved soil quality, and increased market
demand for his produce.
8.9 Groundnut
34
Fig 8.9: Groundnut Crop
(i) Land Preparation
• During field preparation, apply 800 kg of Ghanjeevamrit per acre by mixing it
into the soil in first year, 500 kg in second year and 200 kg in subsequent years
at the time of sowing.
(ii) Varieties and Seed Rate
• Bunch type: GG-2, GG-5, GG-7, TG-26, TG-37-A, GJG-9
»Seed rate: 100 kg per hectare– Spacing 45 cm x (7.5 to 10) cm
• Semi-spreading type: GG-20, GJG-22
»Seed rate: 120 kg per hectare– 60 cm x 10 cm
34 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 113
• Spreading type: GAUG-10, GG-11, GG-12, GG-13, JGJ-HPS-1, GJG-17
»Seed rate: 100 to 110 kg per hectare– 75 cm x (10 to 15) cm
(iii) Spacing and Planting Pattern
• A soil depth of 15–20 cm is considered suitable for groundnut sowing.
• Sow groundnut on 1.2-meter-wide broad beds, keeping four rows per bed at
30 cm spacing. Maintain 30 cm furrows on both sides of each bed for drainage
and easy intercultural operations.
(iv) Seed Treatment
• Treat seeds with Beejamrit to prevent soil-borne diseases such as root rot,
seedling rot, and collar rot.
• Carry out seed treatment before sowing so that the seeds can dry overnight and
be ready for sowing the next morning.
• Before sowing, soak the seeds in 25% cow urine solution to improve
germination and enhance drought tolerance.
(v) Sowing Time
• Early sowing: Last week of May to first week of June.
• Timely sowing: 15 June to 30 June (depending on water availability).
• Summer crop: 15 January to 15 February.
(vi) Sowing Method
• Before sowing, apply 100 kg Ghanjeevamrit per hectare by mixing into the soil.
• After sowing, apply mulching with crop residues.
(vii) Irrigation Management
Apply irrigation at the following critical growth stages:
• First irrigation: 4–5 days after sowing.
• Second irrigation: 20 days after sowing.
• Two irrigations at flowering stage.
• One or two irrigations at pegging stage.
• 2–3 irrigations during pod development, depending on soil type.
• During each irrigations apply 500 litres of Jeevamrit mixed with irrigation water.
(viii) Jeevamrit Spraying Schedule
• 30 days after sowing: 5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 100 litres water
• 51 days after sowing: 7.5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 120 litres water
• 72 days after sowing: 10 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 150 litres water
• 83 days after sowing: 15 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 150 litres water
• 104 days after sowing: 3 litres sour buttermilk mixed with 100 litres water
(ix) Mixed/Intercropping
• Groundnut + Cotton Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 114
• Groundnut + Castor
• Groundnut + Sesame
(x) Crop Protection Measures
• If insect eggs or larvae appear on leaves: Mix 3 litres Brahmastra and 3 litres
Agniastra in 200 litres of water and spray.
• For sucking pest control: Spray 200 litres of Neemastra per acre.
• For nematode control: Apply 8% Brahmastra solution (8 litres per 100 litres
water) by soil drenching.
• For fungal/viral control: Spray 3–4 days old buttermilk mixed with 100 litres
of water.
(xi) Harvesting Stage
• Harvest the crop 90 to 120 days after sowing.
8.9.1 Success Story: Shri Machhibhai Ratadiya, Gujarat
Shri Machhibhai Ratadiya, a resident of Nainivadi village in Kalavad taluka of
Jamnagar district, Gujarat, has set an inspiring example in sustainable agriculture.
He adopted natural farming practices for wheat, groundnut, and other crops, while
also integrating modern irrigation and mechanisation techniques such as drip and
sprinkler systems, seed drills, harvesters, and reapers. These measures helped him
increase production and reduce costs.
He has trained many farmers, developed a seed bank of indigenous varieties, and
promoted direct marketing techniques for value addition. The results of his natural
farming efforts are remarkable, from one hectare of groundnut (GG-20 variety),
he harvested 43 quintals, earning a net profit of ₹91,330-significantly higher than
₹70,000 from conventional farming. The benefit-cost ratio reached 2.57, compared
to just 1.4 under conventional methods.
8.10 Guava
35
Fig 8.10: Guava Crop
35 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 115
(i) Raising Seedlings
• Guava seedlings can be prepared from seeds, but this has both positive and
negative effects.
• Therefore, instead of seeds, air layering method is considered the best method
of propagation.
(ii) Layering Method
The guava plants selected for layering should have the following characteristics:
• Large umbrella-shaped canopy, healthy branches, and low height
• Higher yield and excellent quality fruits
• More pulp and fewer seeds
• White pulp and delicious in taste
• Greater resistance to pests and diseases
To mark the trees with these characteristics, tie a strip of red or other colored cloth.
(iii) Process of Layering
• Choose such branches that are neither too old nor too new, and which spread
on the ground surface.
• The branch should be about 1.5 feet in length. Remove the leaves from the
terminal portion.
• Take wide-mouthed earthen pots and fill them with a mixture of 4 parts good
soil, 2 parts dry cow dung, and 1 part Ghanjeevamrit. Add water and fill.
• Within two days, microbial activity will begin in the pot.
• Cut the terminal portion of the branch with a knife. Place a piece of wood on
the cut portion, cover with soil, and place a stone on top.
• Water to maintain moisture in the pot.
• After one month, roots will start developing, and after three months, the
seedling will be ready for planting.
(iv) Best Time for Layering
• It is most suitable to prepare layering from 21
st
December to March.
(v) Planting Distance
• Keep a distance of 15 feet x 15 feet or12 feet x 12 feet between two guava
plants.
(vi) Use of Jeevamrit
• After 15 days of planting, mix 5 litres of Jeevamrit in 100 litres of water and spray.
• After this, apply Jeevamrit with irrigation once or twice a month.
(vii) Intercrops
• Crops like drumstick (moringa) and castor can be taken with guava.
• Along with this, crops like pigeon pea, chili, ginger, turmeric, and marigold
can also be taken. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 116
• Before taking any intercrop, do not forget to apply 100 kg desi cow dung
manure and 50 kg Ghanjeevamrit per acre.
(viii) Mulching
• In spring season, dry guava leaves fall on the soil and perform the function of mulching.
• Mulching with green parts of other plants is more beneficial.
• Planting drumstick between two guava plants provides necessary nitrogen.
• Intercrops like chili, pigeon pea, ginger, and turmeric at maturity perform the
function of mulching.
(ix) Crop Protection
• Guava may be attacked by pests, diseases, and harmful insects.
• In low-cost natural farming of fruit crops, guava leaves are resistant to diseases,
which prevents pest and disease attacks.
• If any pest or disease attack is observed, spray the entire plant with Neemastra,
Brahmastra, Agniastra, Soontrastra, Vyavhingastra, sour buttermilk, and
coconut water.
8.11 Maize
36
Fig 8.11: Maize Crop
(i) Land Preparation
• During field preparation, mix and apply 500 kg of Ghanjeevamrit per hectare
into the soil.
(ii) Varieties
• Gujarat Maize – 2, Gujarat Maize – 4, Narmadmoti, Ganga Safed – 2, etc.
36 https://naturalfarming.niti.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Package-of-Practices-Gujarat-.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 117
(iii) Spacing
• Plant spacing: 60 cm x 20 cm
(iv) Seed Rate
• Seed rate: 15–20 kg per hectare
(v) Seed Treatment
• Treat seeds with Beejamrit to protect against soil-borne diseases and ensure
healthy plant growth.
• Treatment should be done one day before sowing; soak the seeds overnight
and sow them the next morning.
(vi) Time of Sowing
• Kharif crop: June–July
• Rabi crop: October–November
(vii) Irrigation
• In Kharif season, irrigate only if there is a prolonged dry spell.
• In Rabi season, provide irrigation at intervals of 15–20 days.
(viii) Application of Jeevamrit in Soil
• After planting, apply 250 litres of Jeevamrit per acre through irrigation water.
• Thereafter, apply 250 litres of Jeevamrit twice a month with irrigation water.
(ix) Jeevamrit Spraying Schedule
• One month after planting – 5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 100 litres water
• 21 days after the first – 7.5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 120 litres water
• 21 days after the second – 10 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 150 litres water
• 21 days after the third – 15 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 150 litres water
• 21 days after the fourth – 3 litres sour buttermilk mixed with 100 litres water
(x) Mixed / Intercropping
According to the agro-climatic zone, intercrop with:
• Maize + Pigeon pea
• Maize + Castor
• Maize + Groundnut
(xi) Crop Protection Measures
• Sucking pest control: Spray Neemastra @ 200 litres per acre
• Control of worms: Spray Brahmastra @ 3 litres / 100 litres water
• Borer, Fall Armyworm, and Fruit Fly control: Spray Agniastra @ 3 litres / 100
litres water Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 118
• Fungal / viral disease control: Spray buttermilk (3–4 days old) mixed in 100
litres water
8.11.1 Shri Chandu Sattibabu, Andhra Pradesh
Shri Chandu Sattibabu, a resident of Ammapalem village, Pedavegi Mandal, West
Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, has proven that maize production can be
significantly improved through natural farming.
Educated up to Class 10 and actively practicing natural farming for the past four
years, he has adopted innovative techniques such as Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing
(PMDS) and developed a diverse cropping system with 18 types of Navadhanya
(traditional grains). Intercropping Navadhanya between maize rows replaced the
monocropping system, improving soil health, biodiversity, and pest resistance.
From 0.4 hectares under natural farming, Shri Sattibabu harvested 48 quintals of
maize, earning a net profit of ₹68,150, compared to only ₹39,000 under conventional
farming. The benefit-cost ratio was 3.7, much higher than the 2.3 of conventional
farming. Intercropping Navadhanya provided an additional ₹3,000 income.
Shri Sattibabu’s journey demonstrates that with ecological understanding, community
engagement, and innovation, Indian farmers can achieve sustainable prosperity.
8.12 Mango
37
Fig 8.12: Mango Crop
(i) Graft/Cutting Treatment
• Treat grafts/cuttings with Beejamrit.
Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing in Mango Orchards
• Farmers establishing new orchards should first carry out pre-monsoon dry
sowing and then plant grafts of high-yielding mango varieties to ensure good
establishment and growth.
37 https://www.manage.gov.in/nf/pptspdfs/apcnf-gujarat.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 119
• In orchards aged 0–5 years, along with pre-monsoon dry sowing, grow
intercrops such as coarse cereals, pulses, vegetables, leafy vegetables, and
vine crops like pumpkin and bottle gourd.
• Filler fruit crops such as papaya, drumstick (moringa), and fig can also be
planted between two rows of mango trees.
• In orchards older than 5 years:
»In shaded areas, grow rhizome crops and root vegetables such as turmeric,
ginger, carrot, beetroot, onion, and radish, along with leafy vegetables.
»In sunny areas, adopt a multi-cropping system.
• Document the income obtained from the main crop and intercrops.
(ii) Canopy Management in Mango Plants
Canopy management in young plants:
• Training during the juvenile stage is necessary to give the plant a strong
framework.
• Allow the graft to grow as a single stem up to a height of 1 meter above
ground level.
• In October–November, cut the top at a height of 60 cm – 70 cm to encourage
primary branches.
• In March–April, 3–7 primary branches will emerge, of which 3–4 should be
retained in different directions.
• In October–November, cut the primary branches at 60 cm – 70 cm to encourage
secondary branching.
• From secondary branches, retain 2–3 branches per primary branch.
• Tertiary branches are obtained by cutting secondary branches at 60 cm – 70 cm.
(iii) Canopy management in fruit-bearing trees:
• Mango is a terminal bearer, meaning flowers appear at the tips of branches.
• First pruning (after harvest): complete by June/July.
»Skirting: remove lower hanging branches.
»Opening up: remove entangled inner branches to allow sunlight
penetration.
»Hygiene: remove diseased or dead branches.
»Biomass removal: do not remove more than 25% of the biomass at a time,
otherwise flowering may be reduced.
• Second pruning (before flowering): carry out in mid-December and complete
within 1–2 weeks.
»Skirting: remove lower hanging branches. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 120
»Opening up: remove disorganised inner branches.
»Tip pruning: cut new shoots back to mature wood to encourage flowering.
»Hygiene: remove diseased or dead branches.
(iv) Organic Nutrient Management
Ghanjeevamrit: Apply 10–20 kg per tree in June/July and October/November
depending on tree age.
Jeevamrit: The Spraying schedule for mango is as given in Table 8.2.
Table 8.4: Jeevamrit Spraying Schedule for Mango
Age Group Soil ApplicationFoliar Spray
Orchard
1–5 years old

1st spray: 15 litres Jeevamrit mixed with
200 litres water (Dec/Jan)
2nd spray: 30 litres Jeevamrit mixed with
200 litres water (Feb/Mar)
Orchard
5+ years old

Growth Promoter: Saptadhanyakur
(v) S2S Kit and Pest Management (Table 8.3)
Table 8.5: S2S Kit and Pest Management for MangoComponentDetails
Intercrops
Coarse cereals, pulses, leafy vegetables, root crops, vine vegetables
Filler fruit crops Papaya, drumstick (moringa), fig
WindbreakSubabul / Gliricidia – 3 rows
Sticky traps Yellow/blue: 20–25 per acre
Pheromone traps (fruit fly)8 per acre
Light trap1 per acre
8.12.1 Mr. Hareshbhai Thakkar, Gujarat
Mr. Thakkar Hareshbhai Morarjibhai from Vavdi village, Bhuj taluka, Kutch district
of Gujarat, has transformed his farm into a vibrant and inspiring model by combining
natural farming with agricultural innovations. He has adopted natural methods in
cultivating fruit crops such as strawberry, mango, dragon fruit, banana, papaya,
pomegranate, date palm, guava, muskmelon, watermelon, sweet lime, malta, and
fig, along with vegetable crops like chili, capsicum, cabbage, brinjal, cucumber,
sponge gourd, bottle gourd, bitter gourd, beetroot, broccoli, beans, zucchini, tomato,
cherry, lettuce, spinach, onion, and drumstick. He also practices animal husbandry
with 32 indigenous Kankrej cows and one bull, which provide inputs for preparing
natural formulations such as Jeevamrit, Panchagavya, Chhasamrut, Saptadhanyakura Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 121
extract, organic potash, organic phosphorus, and organic nitrogen. He promoted
innovation by preparing calcium from banana flowers, fungicide from cactus, and
folic acid from lime. Through the drip irrigation system on his farm, 80,000 litres
of Jeevamrit are applied at one time. He mechanizes irrigation and harvesting using
seed drills, harvesters, and spraying machines. He carries out value addition of his
produce at home itself and markets them directly through social media platforms
like WhatsApp, YouTube, and Facebook. His farm has been visited by delegations
from countries such as Israel, Uzbekistan, and the United Arab Emirates, reflecting
international recognition of his work.
The natural farming practices of Mr. Thakkar have delivered remarkable economic
results across different crops. From one hectare of land under strawberry cultivation
through natural farming, he obtained 350 quintals of production, a net profit of
₹37,50,000, and a benefit-cost ratio of 2.66, whereas under conventional farming
the yield was 125 quintals with a profit of ₹11,00,000 and a ratio of only 1.41. In
the case of mango (Kesar variety), natural farming gave 175 quintals of production
and a profit of ₹5,25,000, with a benefit-cost ratio of 6.25, compared to conventional
farming which gave 150 quintals, a profit of ₹3,37,500, and a ratio of 3.07. For
dragon fruit (red variety), natural farming resulted in 125 quintals of production
and a net profit of ₹19,38,750, with a benefit-cost ratio of 7.23, while conventional
farming produced 100 quintals with a profit of ₹13,50,000 and a ratio of 4.64.
8.13 Moringa/Drumstick
38
Fig 8.13: Moringa/Drumstick Crop
(i) Flowering and Fruiting
• In drumstick (Moringa), flowering occurs in February and March.
• Fruiting (pod formation) takes place in April and May.
(ii) Medicinal Properties
• The chemical extracted from its roots is antimicrobial, which works as a
nematicide/vermicide.
• Its leaves, branches, bark, and seeds are also endowed with antimicrobial
properties.
38 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 122
• The extract of drumstick leaves possesses antimicrobial and fungicidal
properties.
(iii) Propagation Method
• Propagation of drumstick is done by seeds or cuttings.
• The length of the cutting should be 3 feet and the thickness should be 5 to 6
cm.
• Seeds are treated with Beejamrit before sowing.
• Before sowing, soak the seeds in Beejamrit for 24 hours.
• Maintain a spacing of 6 to 12 feet between rows - this depends on which fruit
crop is taken as an intercrop.
(iv) Pruning
• The branches of drumstick continue to grow continuously.
• Therefore, keep pruning until the branches of drumstick reach a height of 2
feet from the main fruit crop.
• When the tree reaches an appropriate height, then let it grow upwards.
• In this way, the tree provides shade to the main fruit crop, and the pruned
branches are used for mulching.
8.14 Paddy (Kharif)
39
Fig 8.14: Paddy (Kharif) Crop
Before kharif, Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing (PMDS) with 18 varieties of crops is done in
May and continued up to July 2
nd
week (approximately 75 days) to get a good crop stand
and biomass. By practising PMDS, the farmers harvest some portion of the different
groups of crops/ vegetables / leafy vegetables, which can be used for self-consumption;
some biomass may be used as fodder or may be used as Mulch / incorporated into the soil
before kharif plantation.
39 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 123
(i) Seed and Seedling Treatment with Beejamrit
• 5 litres Beejamrit for 25- 30 kg seed respectively, it stimulates and catalyses
soil biology and protects from seed/soil-born pests and diseases.
• Promote Line sowing, Drum Seeder planting, System of Rice Intensification
(SRI) in irrigated paddy and Direct seeding (Line) in rainfed paddy, which
allows minimal disturbance to the soil.
(ii) Ghanjeevamrit
• Apply 800 kg Ghanjeevamrit per acre at the time of sowing in first year, 500
kg in second year and 200 kg in subsequent years.
(iii) Jeevamrit
• Soil application: 200 litres per acre after sowing, after that apply 200 litres per
acre twice a month with irrigation water.
• Foliar application:
»5 litres Jeevamrit in 100 litres of water after sowing
»7.5 litres Jeevamrit in 120 litres of water after 21 days of first spray.
»10 litres of Jeevamrit in 150 litres of water after 21 days of second spray.
»3 litres of sour buttermilk in 100 litres of water after 21 days of third spray.
»3 litres of sour buttermilk in 100 litres of water after 21 days of fourth
spray.
»15 litres of Jeevamrit in 150 litres of water after 21 days of fifth spray.
(iv) Application of Azolla
• 10-15 Kgs/Acre after 7 Days After Transplanting (DAT), which fixes nitrogen,
reduces weed development, acts as living organic mulch (reduces irrigation frequency
by reducing evaporation loss of water), and some biomass can be incorporated.
(v) All the non-negotiables
• Clipping of leaf tips, Alleys, Border/Bund/Peripheral plantation- Marigold/
Red gram/Maize/Vegetables and Gliricidia /Sesbania, Yellow sticky traps,
Pheromone traps- for Yellow Stem Borer, Bird perches and Light traps must
be practised.
(vi) Growth Promoters
• Sapthadhanyakura tonic- 250ml in 100lits of water, 1 time-at Milking and
grain filling stage to boost both quality and quantity of yields.
(vii) Suggested 365 Days Green Cover (DGC) in paddy under different situations
• Canal situation:
»Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing (PMDS)-Kharif Paddy-RDS (Rabi Dry
Sowing)-Rabi Paddy Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 124
• Bore wells and Uplands:
»PMDS-Kharif Paddy-RDS-Rabi Paddy.
»PMDS-Kharif Paddy-RDS-Rabi Pulses/other crops
»Under borewells, adjust the Kharif sowings so that the harvests may be
complete by October end or by the 1st fortnight of Nov and then take up
Rabi dry sowings, raise RDS up to 25- 50 days so that there may be good
growth for incorporation.
• Promote High-End Models in Paddy Fields
»Multi-layer horticultural Model, raising of Horticulture plants (like Fruit
trees, Vegetables and Flower crops) after widening of Paddy bunds and
initiate, 5 Layer model (50’X50’ model) (in 5-6 cents area) in one corner of
paddy field to 5 feet height and SRT (Saguna Rice Technology) wherever
possible.
8.15 Paddy (Rabi)
40
Fig 8.15: Paddy (Rabi) Crop
After kharif, the raising of Rabi Dry Sowing (RDS) with a minimum of 9 varieties of crops
(comprising of Pulses, Oil seeds, Millets, Vegetables and Leafy vegetables), sown as relay
crop on November 2nd week and continued up to December 2nd week (appx.30 days) to
get a good crop stand and biomass. The essential principle is to have 365 days of green
cover and to see that the soil is not kept barren.
(i) Seed and Seedling Treatment with Beejamrit
• To avoid weedicide application, promote Line sowing, Drum Seeder planting,
SRI in irrigated paddy and Direct seeding (Line) in rainfed paddy, which
allows minimal disturbance to the soil.
• Facilitating the placement of paddy weeders, both manual and power-driven,
at Custom Hiring Centre (CHC) / NPM shops is crucial.
40 https://www.manage.gov.in/nf/pptspdfs/apcnf-gujarat.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 125
(ii) Ghanjeevamrit
• Apply 1000-1500kg/acre, during last ploughing/Puddling and
• 400kg/acre in two equal splits at 20 Days After Sowing (DAS) and 40 DAS at
20-day intervals.
(iii) Jeevamrit
• Soil application: 2000 litres /acre, 10 times @ 200 litres each time, starting
from 10 DAS with 10 days intervals.
• Foliar application: 4 times, at 25DAS (15 litres of Jeevamrit in 100 litres of water)
»45DAS (20 litres of Jeevamrit in 150 litres of water)
»55DAS (30 litres of Jeevamrit in 150 litres of water)
»70DAS (50 litres of Jeevamrit in 150 litres of water)
(iv) Application of Azolla
• 4 Kgs/Acre after 7 DAS, which fixes nitrogen, reduces weed growth, acts as
living organic mulch (reduces irrigation frequency by reducing evaporation
loss of water), and some biomass can be incorporated.
(v) Seed to Seed Kit- All the Non-Negotiables
• Clipping of leaf tips
• Seedling treatment with Beejamrit
• Alleys- Provide 30 cms alley for every 2 metres
• Azolla mother pit
• Border/Bund/Peripheral-plantation-Marigold/Redgram/Maize/Vegetables
and Glyricidia / Sesbania.
• Yellow sticky traps-20-25/Acre
• Pheromone traps for Yellow Stem Borer and Leaf folder-8/acre at 20-30 DAT
• Bird perches-10-15/Acre
• Light trap: 1/acre
(vi) Growth Promoters
• Sapthadhanyakura tonic- 700 grams of paste in 100 litres of water,1 time-at
Milking and grain filling stage to boost both quality and quantity of yields.
8.15.1 Success Story: Shri Pundalik Vishnu Jori, Maharashtra
Shri Pundalik Vishnu Jori, a progressive farmer from Kashal village in Pune district,
Maharashtra, has set a remarkable example of innovation and sustainability in paddy
cultivation. Despite having formal education only up to the seventh standard, he
revolutionised his farming practices by adopting natural farming techniques and
mechanisation. By using tools such as the paddy transplanter, cono weeder, and Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 126
reaper, he was able to save both labor and time. Through the application of natural
inputs like Jeevamrit and Dashparni Ark, he reduced costs while improving soil
fertility and the quality of his produce. Along with actively participating in trainings
and demonstrations organised by Agricultural Technology Management Agency
(ATMA), he also disseminated agricultural knowledge through social media.
The comparative results of natural farming versus conventional farming are highly
inspiring. On 0.4 hectares of land, natural farming yielded him 29 quintals of Indrayani
paddy and a net profit of ₹69,000, whereas conventional farming produced only 21
quintals and a profit of ₹41,000. Recognizing his guidance in organic farming and
mechanisation of paddy, ATMA honoured him with the “Outstanding Farmer Award.”
8.16 Papaya
41
Fig 8.16: Papaya Crop
(i) Field Preparation
• After plowing the soil, prepare furrows/ridges at a distance of two feet from
the planting spot.
• In a planting distance of 8 feet, four furrows/ridges are formed.
• Sow seeds/plant seedlings at 8 feet or desired spacing in the first furrow.
• At the time of planting, give a mixture of four parts soil and three parts
Ghanjeevamrit in equal proportion.
(ii) Varieties
• Old varieties: Madhubindu, Selection-7, Ceylon, Washington.
• New varieties: CO-1, CO-2, CO-7, Coorg Honeydew, Red Flesh, Pusa
Delicious, Pusa Majesty, Pusa Giant, Pusa Nanha, Pusa Dwarf.
(iii) Propagation
• Commercially papaya is grown by seed. Seeds can be extracted from quality
fruits from the market and sown directly in the field. Raising seedlings in the
nursery is not necessary.
41 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 127
• If seedlings are to be raised in nursery, prepare beds 4.5 feet wide (3 feet bed
and 1.5 feet furrow). Sow Beejamrit-treated seeds in lines at 3 inch x 3 inch
spacing.
• Cover seeds with soil, spray Jeevamrit, then apply a layer of dry leaves.
• After this, do light irrigation to maintain moisture for germination.
• Spray Jeevamrit and irrigate daily. Seeds will germinate in 15–20 days.
• After germination, remove the mulch and irrigate through furrows with
Jeevamrit mixed water.
• For spraying, mix 300–500 ml Jeevamrit in 10 litres of water.
• For one acre area, 200–250 grams of seed is required.
• The viability of papaya seeds remains up to 45 days, hence early sowing is
advisable.
(iv) Planting Time
• June–July
• September–October
• January–February
• Sow 2–4 seeds/seedlings per pit at 10 cm spacing.
(v) Flowering and Fruiting
• In papaya, flowers appear after 4–6 months. Remove male plants.
• For good pollination, keep 5.7% male plants in the field.
• Male plants have long flower stalks and white-yellow flowers.
• Fruiting starts after 10–11 months, and fruits become ready for harvesting
in 14 months. If a plant bears more fruits, remove weak and small fruits;
otherwise, the fruits will be small and of poor quality.
(vi) Intercrops
• Papaya is an intercrop of mango, guava, orange, sweet lime, chikoo, and litchi.
• Along with these, drumstick, pigeon pea, colocasia/taro, chili, ginger,
turmeric, cowpea, onion, marigold, tomato, brinjal, black gram, cluster beans,
and cucurbitaceous vegetables can be taken.
• Plant drumstick between two rows and sow pigeon pea in furrows at 8 feet
distance.
• Sow drumstick in one line and pigeon pea in another line alternately.
• In the second and fourth rows, plant cowpea, chili, and marigold.
• In the third row, sow cucurbitaceous vegetables.
• In this way intercrops can be planted throughout the field. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 128
(vii) Mulching
• Do mulching on both sides of furrows between two rows of papaya.
• Intercrops help in weed control. If weeds appear, uproot and leave them there
itself.
• After the intercrop duration is over, dry leaves and plants will act as dry
mulching.
• According to the season, sow new intercrops to obtain live mulching.
(viii) Jeevamrit Spraying Schedule
After the rainy season ends, apply Jeevamrit twice a month in the soil near the plants.
After this, spray Jeevamrit on papaya and intercrops as per the following schedule:
• One month after germination: Mix 5 litres of Jeevamrit in 100 litres of water.
• Two months after germination: Mix 7 litres of Jeevamrit in 100 litres of water.
• Three months after germination: Mix 10 litres of Jeevamrit in 100 litres of
water.
• Before fruit setting: Mix 10 litres of Jeevamrit in 100 litres of water.
• After fruit setting: Mix 3 litres of sour buttermilk in 100 litres of water.
• Fifteen days after fruit setting: Mix 1 litre of coconut water in 100 litres of
water.
• Final spray (15 days later): Mix 1 litre of coconut water in 100 litres of water.
(ix) Crop Protection
• After monsoon or irrigation, waterlogging may cause pest and disease
problems.
• To prevent this, spray Neemastra, Brahmastra, Agniastra, sour buttermilk,
and Soonthastra.
8.16.1 Shri Sethia Ratilal Vitthaldas, Gujarat
Shri Sethia Ratilal Vitthaldas from Gunatitpur village, Bhachau taluka of Kutch
district in Gujarat has achieved remarkable success in horticulture, vegetables, and
other crops by adopting natural farming since the year 2008. He has developed a self-
reliant and sustainable agricultural model by adopting innovations like a five-layer
crop system, animal husbandry with Gir cows and bullocks, and mechanisation of
Jeevamrit. His farm has five automatic Jeevamrit tanks (each of 5000 litres capacity),
which ensure nutrition along with irrigation. He uses only natural inputs-such as
Jeevamrit, Ghanjeevamrit, Brahmastra, Saptadhanyankur extract, Neemastra, and
Dashparni extract. He has established a desi seed bank and organizes workshops on
the second Sunday of every month, from which hundreds of farmers are benefiting.
Shri Ratilal obtained 825.5 quintals of production from natural farming of Taiwan
variety papaya, with a cultivation cost of ₹3,75,000 and total profit reaching ₹8,69,000. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 129
The net profit was ₹4,94,000, while the benefit-cost ratio was 2.32. On the other
hand, in conventional farming the production was 816 quintals, but the cost was
₹5,00,000 and the net profit was only ₹3,10,000. This comparison shows that natural
farming not only reduces cost, but also increases profit.
On his farm, seed treatment with Beejamrit ensures 100 percent germination and
protection from soil-borne diseases. Mixed cropping system, bio-fuel mulching,
drip and sprinkler irrigation, seed drill and harvester technologies save labor and
time. He has developed a market of 500 regular customers for more than 200 natural
products, making direct marketing and value addition possible. This story shows
that by combining innovation, dedication, and traditional knowledge with modern
technology, farmers can not only become economically prosperous, but also a source
of environmental balance and community inspiration.
8.17 Pomegranate
42
Fig 8.17: Pomegranate Crop
(i) Varieties
• The major varieties of pomegranate are: Kandhari, Dholka, Jalore Seedless,
Muscat, Ganesh, Mridula, Jyoti, Bhagwa, Super Bhagwa, etc.
• Different varieties are cultivated in different regions:
»Kandhari - Himachal Pradesh
»Dholka and Bhagwa - Gujarat
»Jalore Seedless - Rajasthan
»Muscat, Ganesh, and Mridula - Maharashtra
(ii) Planting Distance
• Planting distance is determined according to the type of soil:
• In light soil: 12 feet x 12 feet
• In sandy loam soil: 12 feet x 15 feet
• In heavy soil: 15 feet x 15 feet
42 Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural University, Anand. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 130
(iii) Propagation Methods
• Pomegranate is propagated by seeds, cuttings, and layering.
• Cutting and layering are equally effective.
Propagation by Cutting
• Select a well-managed pomegranate orchard.
• Tag disease-free and quality plants with old colored cloth.
• Use the new shoots growing near the stem of the plant for cutting.
• The length of the cutting should be 22 to 26 cm, with at least 4 to 6 buds.
• Remove the leaves but do not damage the buds.
• Dip the cuttings in Beejamrit and plant them.
• At the time of planting, bury at least 2 buds and three-fourths of the part in
soil.
• The best time for planting cuttings is 2 hours before sunset.
Propagation by Air Layering
• Air layering is the best propagation method.
• All branches of the plant are suitable for layering.
• Select a branch from the tree with thickness similar to a pencil.
• Remove the leaves from the middle 15 to 20 cm portion of the branch.
• Then remove a circular bark of 2 to 3 cm thickness.
• Cover this part with moist sphagnum moss and tie with a polythene strip and
thin jute rope (sutli).
• Sphagnum moss has high water-holding capacity, hence watering is not
required.
• Air layering gives best results during the monsoon months.
(iv) Planting Method
• Plant seedlings at a distance of 12 feet x 12 feet, 12 feet x 15 feet, or 15 feet x
15 feet in the field.
• Make furrows at a distance of 3 feet in the field so that four furrows are formed
in 12 feet.
• Dig a pit in the first furrow for planting the layered seedling, and after planting,
support it with a wooden stick and tie with sutli.
• After this, plant other seedlings and sow intercrops.
• Before planting, prepare a mixture of 100 kg cow dung manure, 50 kg Ghana
Jeevamrit and 300 kg soil per acre, and use it for layering and intercrops.
(v) Use of Jeevamrit
• During monsoon, 2–4 days after rainfall stops, irrigate around the main crop
(pomegranate) and intercrops with Jeevamrit. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 131
• Apply Jeevamrit once or twice a month.
• After the monsoon, apply 200–400 litres of Jeevamrit per acre with irrigation
once or twice a month.
(vi) Spray Schedule:
Time Quantity of Jeevamrit (in 100 litres of water)
Initial Spray 5 litres
Next Spray 7 litres
Final Spray 10 litres
(vii) Mulching
• Jeevamrit and mulching are interconnected.
• When the intercrop matures, it becomes live mulch.
• After harvesting the intercrop, its residue acts as dry mulching.
• After harvesting drumstick pods, prune them and use the waste for mulching.
• Pruning leads to quick emergence of new shoots, resulting in greater quantity
of mulch.
• Plant intercrops in open spaces so that from the lower layer and the upper live
mulch, microorganisms and earthworms are generated, which will nourish the
roots of plants for years.
• Due to this, additional manure will not be required.
(viii) Crop Protection
• Pomegranate requires a dense shady environment.
• In open environment, pomegranate does not give good yield.
• Therefore, provide shade with castor and drumstick plants.
(ix) Pest and Disease Control:
• If all the practices of natural farming are adopted, there is no threat of pests
and diseases.
• If all requirements are not fulfilled, the disease resistance capacity of plants
weakens and pest attacks occur.
• On the day of pruning of pomegranate or the next evening, light torches and
walk between two rows - this destroys 80% of the pests by burning them.
• Harmful Pests: Thrips, jassids, pomegranate caterpillar, mite, stem borer, etc.
• Spray for Control: If any pest or disease attack is observed, spray the entire plant with
Neemastra, Brahmastra, Agniastra, Jeevamrit, Whapasa , and sour buttermilk.
8.17.1 Shri Ratilal Vitthaldas, Gujarat
Shri Sethia Ratilal Vitthaldas of Gunatitpur village, Bhachau Taluka, Kutch district,
Gujarat, has achieved remarkable success in horticulture, vegetables, and mixed crops
by adopting natural farming since the year 2008. He has developed a sustainable and
profitable agricultural model by adopting innovations such as the five-tier crop system, Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 132
animal husbandry with Gir cows and bullocks, and mechanisation of Jeevamrit. On his
farm, there are five automatic Jeevamrit tanks, and he uses only natural inputs such as
Jeevamrit, Brahmastra, Saptadhanyakur extract, Neemastra, etc. He runs an indigenous
seed bank and organizes workshops every month to train farmers.
Shri Ratilal obtained a production of 145 quintals from the natural farming of
Sinduri variety of pomegranate, with a cultivation cost of ₹1,25,000 and a total
profit reaching ₹4,22,000. The net profit was ₹2,97,000, and the benefit-cost ratio
was 3.38. In contrast, in conventional farming, the production was 108.8 quintals,
the cost was ₹2,50,000, and the net profit was only ₹74,000, with the benefit-cost
ratio being only 1.30.
This difference shows that natural farming not only reduces production cost but
also increases production and profit. With seed treatment by Beejamrit, hundred
percent germination and protection from soil-borne diseases are ensured. The mixed
cropping system, biofuel mulch, drip irrigation, and use of modern equipment save
labor and time.
Shri Ratilal has developed a market of 500 regular customers for more than 200
natural products. He disseminated information through social media and obtained
technical support by connecting with the ATMA project.
8.18 Potato
43
Fig 8.18: Potato Crop
(i) Land Preparation
• Before planting potatoes, mix 100 kg of well-decomposed farmyard manure
with 100 kg of Ghanjeevamrit per acre into the soil.
(ii) Variety Selection, Seed Rate, and Spacing
• Varieties: Kufri Pukhraj, Kufri Badshah, Kufri Jyoti
• Seed rate: 1.5–2.5 tons per hectare
43 https://naturalfarming.niti.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Package-of-Practices-Gujarat-.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 133
• Spacing: Row-to-row distance 45–60 cm and plant-to-plant distance 15–20 cm.
(iii) Seed Treatment
• Potato cultivation is done using tubers, either whole or cut into pieces.
• Many diseases spread through seed potatoes, which can cause severe losses.
Hence, treating seed with Beejamrit is essential.
(iv) Sowing Time
• For higher yields, timely planting of potatoes is crucial.
• The best time is when maximum temperature is 30–32°C and minimum
temperature is 18–20°C.
• Early crop: 25 September – 10 October
• Main crop: 15 October – 25 October
• Timely sowing: 15 October – 15 November
(v) Irrigation Schedule
• Potato crops require proper water management, and drainage of excess water
is necessary.
• In natural farming, due to moisture conservation in the soil, irrigation should
be done in moderate amounts.
(vi) Application of Jeevamrit
• Apply 200 litres of Jeevamrit in soil with irrigation water at intervals of 15
days.
(vii) Jeevamrit Sprays
• One month after planting: 5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 100 litres water
• 35 days after planting: 10 litres neem oil mixed with 150 litres water
• 40 days after planting: 10 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 150 litres water
• 43 days after planting: 10 litres sour buttermilk mixed with100 litres water
• 50 days after planting: 10 litres Bramhastra mixed with 10 litres Agniastra
mixed with 200 litres water
• 65 days after planting: 20 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 200 litres water
(viii) Mulching
• After planting, apply mulching using crop residues.
(ix) Crop Protection Measures
• Sucking pest control: Spray 7.5 litres Neemastra with 250 litres water
• Nematode control: Soil drenching with Brahmastra @ 8 litres mixed with
100 litres water (8% solution)
• Caterpillar control: Spray 7.5 litres Agniastra mixed with 250 litres water
• Fungal and viral disease control: Spray 7.5 litres sour buttermilk mixed with
250 litres water Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 134
(x) Harvesting Time
• Harvesting is done 110 days after planting.
8.18.1 Mrs. Bindu Devi, Bihar
Mrs. Bindu Devi from Patalghat village, Manpur block, Gaya district, Bihar, has given
new dimensions to the possibilities of natural farming without any formal education.
She adopted the SRI (System of Rice Intensification) method for paddy, wheat,
mustard, vegetables, and moong cultivation. She used:
• Beejamrit for seed treatment
• Jeevamrit and Ghanjeevamrit for crop nutrition
• Neemastra, Agniastra, and Brahmastra as natural pesticides for crop protection
• Mathastra and Sothastra as natural fungicides
• Shri Amrit and Moongamrit as plant growth regulators
For pest control, she also used pheromone traps, sticky plates, bird perches, and
bonfires, along with mixed cropping and border cropping techniques. For water
conservation, she adopted drip irrigation and mulching using live and dead grasses.
The most remarkable result was seen in potato cultivation on 0.04 hectare, where she
obtained 12 quintals of production and a net profit of ₹14,800, while in traditional
farming, the production was 7 quintals and the profit ₹5,000. Her benefit-cost ratio
in potato was 4.6, which is five times higher than the traditional 0.9. These results
clearly show that natural farming ensured reduction in production costs, improvement
in soil health (increase in the number of earthworms), better quality and shelf life,
and availability of chemical-free food grains.
8.19 Sugarcane
44
Fig 8.19: Sugarcane Crop
44 https://naturalfarming.niti.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Package-of-Practices-Gujarat-.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 135
(i) Bed Preparation
• A total of 4 beds are prepared:
»Bed 1: Seasonal vegetables
»Bed 2: Seasonal pulses
»Bed 3: Seasonal vegetables
»Bed 4: Sugarcane (at points C and D), with onion or garlic planted on top
• For the first 3 months, all the beds are irrigated.
• After 3 months, when the sugarcane reaches a height of 4 feet, irrigation in
beds 0 and 4 is stopped.
• After 3 months, the intercrops are harvested, which results in good sugarcane
production.
(ii) Jeevamrit Spray Schedule
• One month after transplanting: Apply a mixture of 100 litres of water with 5
litres of Jeevamrit.
• Twenty-one days after the first spray: Apply 150 litres of water mixed with 20
litres of Jeevamrit.
• Twenty-one days after the second spray: Apply 200 litres of water mixed with
20 litres of Jeevamrit.
• Twenty-one days after the third spray: Apply 200 litres of water mixed with 5
litres of sour buttermilk.
• Twenty-one days after the fourth spray: Apply 200 litres of water mixed with
20 litres of Jeevamrit.
• Twenty-one days after the fifth spray: Apply 200 litres of water mixed with 20
litres of Jeevamrit.
(iii) Intercropping
• The life cycle of sugarcane can be divided into three stages:
»First 4 months (Infant stage): Roots grow rapidly.
»Next 4 months (Juvenile stage): Cane grows vigorously.
• Intercrops taken during the infant stage act as a nutritional reserve for
sugarcane.
• After 4 months, sunlight falls directly on the cane, which enhances yield.
• Sugarcane should be planted facing south, as sunlight comes from the south
and falls directly on the leaves.
• If the land has a steep slope, plant sugarcane opposite to the slope so that
rainwater seeps into the soil. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 136
(iv) Irrigation Management
• After sowing sugarcane, irrigate all channels for the first 3 months.
• After 3 months, when sugarcane reaches a height of 4 feet, stop irrigating
channel 1.
• For the next 3 months, irrigate only channel 3.
• Stop irrigation in the remaining channels so that roots spread in search of
water and become stronger.
• This helps to increase both the height and yield of sugarcane.
• Using this method, about 40,000 healthy canes per acre can be obtained.
(v) Ratoon Crop
• After harvesting sugarcane, allow the fallen leaves to dry.
• Then, move the dry leaves from channel 2 into channel 4, and from channel 1
into channel 3.
• Ensure that sugarcane sets are not covered - they should remain free for
sprouting.
• After this, sow legume seeds in channel 2 and channel 4 to improve crop yield.
(vi) Pest Management
• When needed, mix 3 litres Brahmastra and 3 litres Agniastra with 200 litres
of water and spray.
• This mixture helps in controlling pests.
(vii) Disease Management
• When sugarcane turns yellow or shows fungal infection, mix 3 litres sour
buttermilk with 150 litres of water and spray.
(viii) Weed Management
• In sugarcane cultivation, do not allow any type of weed to grow during the
first 3 months. Keep removing weeds from time to time.
• If weeds still remain after 3 months, cut them from the base of the crop and
use them as mulch.
• By doing so, weeds actually help in improving sugarcane yield.
8.19.1 Mr. Sukhdev Singh, Punjab
Mr. Sukhdev Singh, a B.Sc. Agriculture graduate from Chamari village, Ajnala block,
Amritsar district, Punjab, has set an inspiring example by adopting natural farming.
He applied natural methods in food and vegetable crops and established a turmeric
processing unit, vermicompost unit, and biogas plant, thereby making integrated
use of resources. He prepared organic inputs like Jeevamrit on his own and applied
them in fields. By using power tillers, transplanting machines, cono weeders, and
rear-mounted implements, he reduced labor and energy costs. He is also active in Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 137
organic jaggery (gur) production and markets his products through Siddhagiri Natural
Farmer Producer Company (FPC), ensuring fair prices and consumer trust. Every
year, he benefits nearly 2,500 farmers through training programs and workshops. By
adopting the SRI (System of Rice Intensification) technique in paddy cultivation,
he successfully doubled his income - a testament to his innovation and leadership.
The economic benefits from sugarcane through natural farming are noteworthy.
From one hectare of land, by doing natural farming, he obtained 113.75 quintals
of jaggery, with a cultivation cost of ₹62,500, yielding a net profit of ₹7,33,750.
His Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) was 11.74. In comparison, conventional farming
produced 120.5 quintals, with a cost of ₹70,000 and a net profit of ₹5,92,650,
giving a BCR of 8.46. Despite a slight difference in yield, natural farming proved
more profitable because of lower input costs and better product quality. His efforts
also led to increased grain and fodder production, labor and time savings, and the
ensured availability of chemical-free produce. In 2015, he was honored with the
“Best Farmer Award” by the Department of Agriculture, Amritsar, at a farmer’s fair.
Mr. Sukhdev Singh’s journey shows that with a scientific approach, ecological
commitment, and farmer-to-farmer collaboration, farming can be transformed into
a sustainable and highly profitable enterprise.
8.20 Turmeric
45
Fig 8.20: Turmeric Crop
(i) Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing Preparation
• Before turmeric planting, in April, line sowing of at least 9 types of crops
(pulses, oilseeds, millets, vegetables, and leafy vegetables) should be done.
• The greater the seed diversity, the better the crop quality and biomass.
• Farmers can harvest a part of these crops for household consumption. The
remaining biomass can be used as fodder, mulch, or incorporated into the
main crop.
45 https://www.manage.gov.in/nf/pptspdfs/apcnf-gujarat.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 138
(ii) Intercropping and Mixed Cropping of Turmeric
• Turmeric can tolerate shade, so it can be grown as an intercrop in fruit orchards,
coconut, or oil palm plantations.
• A 1:2 ratio of turmeric and maize is a preferred intercropping system.
• Vegetables like chili, onion, and brinjal can be grown as mixed crops in
turmeric rows.
• Boundary crops can include yam, colocasia, and red gram.
• If nematodes are a problem, grow turmeric with marigold.
(iii) Seed Treatment and Organic Nutrient Management
• Treat with Beejamrit; then soak in Trichoderma viride @ 7 g/litre of water for
20 minutes and dry in shade.
(iv) Inputs at Final Ploughing (per acre)
• Ghanjeevamrit: 20 –25 quintal
• Neem cake: 300 kg
(v) Ghanjeevamrit Application
• 8 quintal per acre total
»2 times @ 400 kg at the time of planting
»400 kg @ 60 days after sowing using placement method
(vi) Jeevamrit Application
• Every 20 days interval, with irrigation, 11 times in crop season @ 200 litres/acre
• From 75 days onwards, after sowing until 275 days, at 20-day intervals
Foliar Spray:
• 13 times at 20 days interval in the entire crop period
• Schedule:
»45 days after sowing: 5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 125 litres water
»65 days after sowing: 10 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 125 litres water
»85 days after sowing: 15 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 150 litres water
»From 105 to 285 days after sowing: every 20 days, 30 litres Jeevamrit
mixed with 150 litres water
(vii) Growth Promoters and Pest Control
• Saptadhanyakur
(viii) Important Practices in Turmeric Cultivation
• Planting method:
»Clay soils: raised beds/ridges and furrows
»Loamy soils: broad beds and furrows Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 139
• Drainage: ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging
• Organic nutrition: higher doses of Jeevamrit improve both yield and quality
• Irrigation: frequent irrigation needed during rhizome maturity
• Crop rotation: every 2 years, adopt multi-cropping with gingelly, sunflower,
and millet
• S2S Kit:
• Follow all mandatory practices
• Make the kit available at NPM shops/FPOs/VOs before sowing
(ix) Organic Pest Control Measures
• Blue sticky traps: 20–25 per acre
• Bird perches: 10–15 per acre
• Light traps: 1 per acre
• Border crops: Castor, pigeon pea
• Trap crops: Chili, onion, marigold
(x) 365-Days Green Cover (DGC)
• Immediately after turmeric harvest in March, do pre-monsoon dry sowing.
• Line-sow any 9 types of seeds, including sesame, sunflower, millet in multi-
cropping systems.
• Repeat pre-monsoon dry sowing afterward.
8.20.1 Shri Tulsiram Chatur, Maharashtra
Shri Tulsiram Sitaram Chatur, a resident of Kutanga village, Dharni taluka, Amravati
district, Maharashtra, is a dedicated farmer educated up to class 12.
He used Jeevamrit and Beejamrit for soil and seed treatment in crops like sorghum,
indigenous wheat (Bansi), onion, and vegetables. He successfully practiced mulching
and moisture management techniques. For pest and disease control, he used organic
solutions such as neem extract and Dashparni Ark.
Shri Tulsiram Chatur’s natural farming method has delivered remarkable economic
outcomes, particularly in turmeric cultivation. On 0.4 hectares, he cultivated turmeric
using both natural and conventional methods, producing 25 quintals in each. The
cost of cultivation was ₹65,000 under natural farming compared to ₹1,00,000 under
conventional farming. As a result, the net profit was ₹3,10,000 from natural farming,
while conventional farming yielded a net profit of ₹2,75,000. The benefit–cost
ratio was significantly higher under natural farming at 5.8, as against 3.8 under the
conventional method. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 140
8.21 Vegetables
46
Fig 8.21: Vegetables Crop
(i) Crop Combinations
Kharif Season:
(a) Tomato + French beans + Brinjal
(b) Cucumber + French beans + Okra
Rabi Season:
(a) Pea + Spinach + Fenugreek
(b) Cabbage + Fenugreek + Coriander
(ii) Planting Geometry
Kharif Season:
• Main crops: Tomato / Cucumber
• Intercrops: French beans, Okra, and Brinjal
• Spacing of main crops:
»Tomato: 90 cm × 30 cm
»Cucumber: 90 cm × 90 cm
• Sowing/planting period: April–May
• Intercrops: Sown alternately between main crops at 30 cm spacing
• Major varieties:
»Tomato (Var. Solan Lalima)
»Cucumber (Var. Cucumber-90)
46 Package of Practices for Vegetable Crops based system under Natural farming approved during State level workshop for cultivation in the
state jointly held at CSK HPKV, Palampur and Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 141
»French beans (Var. Contender)
»Brinjal (Var. Pusa Purple Long / Pusa Purple Cluster)
»Okra (Var. P-8)
Rabi Season:
• Main crops: Pea / Cabbage
• Intercrops: Fenugreek, Coriander, and Spinach
• Spacing of main crops:
»Pea: 60 cm × 10 cm
»Cabbage: 60 cm × 45 cm
• Sowing/planting period: October–November
• Intercrops: Sown alternately between main crops at 30 cm spacing
• Major varieties:
»Pea (Var. PB-89, Azad P-1)
»Cabbage (Var. Golden Acre)
»Fenugreek (Var. IC-74)
»Spinach (Var. Pusa Harit)
»Coriander (Var. Solan Selection)
(iii) Field Preparation:
• Irrigate the field and plough 2–3 times with a power tiller.
• Level the soil and maintain adequate moisture.
• Prepare raised beds of 1.2 meters width with drainage channels in between,
ensuring Whapasa rows (moisture balance).
• Apply Ghanjeevamrit @10 quintals per hectare in prepared beds.
(iv) Cultural Practices to be followed
• Seed/Seedling treatment using Beejamrit:
»Soak large seeds in Beejamrit for 3–4 hours.
»Soak small seeds for 1–2 minutes.
»Dip seedling roots in Beejamrit for half an hour.
• Application of Ghanjeevamrit :
»Apply twice: Half dose at the time of final field preparation
»Remaining half dose one month after sowing/planting Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 142
• Application of Jeevamrit :
»Soil application:
»Apply 500 litres per hectareof Jeevamrit mixed with water at sowing/
planting.
»Repeat every 10–15 days during crop growth.
»Foliar spray:
»One month after sowing/planting @10% (10 litres Jeevamrit + 100 litres water)
»15–20 days later @10% (10 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 100 litres water)
»15–20 days later @15% (15litres Jeevamrit mixed with 100 litres water)
»15–20 days later @20% (20 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 100 litres water)
• Acchadana/Mulching:
»Use organic residues or live mulch.
»Reduces tillage, suppresses weeds, increases humus formation, and
improves soil water retention.
»Enhances microbial activity and nutrient recycling.
• Whapasa:
»Provide water in Whapasa rows and cover with mulch.
»Whapasa means 50% air and 50% moisture between two soil particles.
»This micro-environment supports microbes and roots, improving water
availability, water-use efficiency, and drought tolerance.
• Disease Management:
»Spray 3–5 days old sour buttermilk @3% (3 litres mixed with 100 litres
water), 2–3 times during crop period.
»Apply Sothastra spray when required.
• Application of Saptadhanyankur :
»Spray freshly prepared Saptadhanyankur, 1–2 times to improve crop
quality.
»First spray: 45 days after sowing/planting
»Second spray: One month after the first spray
• Pest Management:
»Spray Agniastra, Brahmastra, Neemastra/Darakastra, and Dashparni
Ark @3%.
»If crop loss due to pests is less than 5%, it is considered to be ‘return to
nature’ and no plant protection measures should be taken. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 143
8.22 Wheat
47

Fig 8.22: Wheat Crop
(i) Land Preparation
• Along with the available farmyard manure, mix and apply 250 kg Ghanjeevamrit
per hectare into the soil during field preparation.
(ii) Varieties
• For timely sowing: Lok-1, GW-366, GW-322, GW-496, GW-451, GW-503,
GW-190, GW-273
• For limited irrigation: GW-1139, GW-1255, HI-8489
(iii) Seed Rate and Seed Treatment
• For regular sowing, 125 kg seed per hectare is required, while for late sowing,
125–150 kg seed per hectare is needed.
• Treat the seeds with Beejamrit to prevent soil-borne diseases such as root rot
and seedling rot.
• The treatment should be done one night before sowing, dry the seeds overnight
and sow them the next morning.
(iv) Time of Sowing
• Early sowing: First week of November
• Timely sowing: 10–15 November
• Late sowing: 25 November – 15 December
(v) Spacing
• Row-to-row spacing – 25 cm
• Plant-to-plant spacing – 7.5 cm to 10 cm
47 https://naturalfarming.niti.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Package-of-Practices-Gujarat-.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 144
(vi) Irrigation Schedule
• First irrigation: 20–25 days after sowing (crown root initiation stage)
• Second irrigation: 40–45 days after sowing (tillering stage)
• Third irrigation: 70–75 days after sowing (late jointing stage)
• Fourth irrigation: 90–95 days after sowing (flowering stage)
• Fifth irrigation: 110–115 days after sowing (dough stage)
(vii) Application of Jeevamrit with Irrigation Water
• Apply 200 litres of Jeevamrit per acre with irrigation water.
• Thereafter, apply 200 litres of Jeevamrit twice a month with irrigation water.
(viii) Jeevamrit Spraying Schedule
• After 30 days of sowing: 12.5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 250 litres water
• After 51 days of sowing: 19 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 300 litres water
• After 72 days of sowing: 25 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 375 litres water
• After 83 days of sowing: 37.5 litres Jeevamrit mixed with 375 litres water
• After 104 days of sowing: 7.5 litres sour buttermilk mixed with 250 litres water
(ix) Mixed / Intercropping
• Pigeon pea, maize, marigold, sesame, etc. can be grown as intercrops.
(x) Crop Protection Measures
• Sucking pest control: Spray Neemastra 7.5 litres mixed with 250 litres water
• Nematode control: Soil drenching with Brahmastra 8% solution (8 litres / 100
litres water)
• Caterpillar control: Spray Agniastra 7.5 litres mixed with 250 litres water
• Fungus and virus control: Spray sour buttermilk 7.5 litres mixed with 250
litres water
8.22.1 Shri Narendra Singh Mehra, Uttarakhand
Shri Narendra Singh Mehra, a resident of Devla Malla village in Haldwani block,
Nainital district, has emerged as a leading farmer in the field of natural farming.
A Postgraduate Diploma holder in Geography and Tourism, Shri Mehra has transformed
his academic knowledge into practical innovations. Since 2017, he has been practising
natural farming with inputs such as Beejamrit, Jeevamrit, and botanical extracts
for plant protection. He introduced wheat–garlic intercropping and adopted direct
seeding of paddy.
A comparison of natural and conventional wheat cultivation on 1 hectare showed a
clear difference. Under natural farming with the “Narendra-09” variety, he harvested
24 quintals of wheat and earned a net profit of ₹53,400, while conventional farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 145
with the “PBW-154” variety yielded 22 quintals with a profit of only ₹26,800. The
benefit-cost ratio was 5.6 in natural farming-more than double that of conventional
farming (2.53).
References & Additional Readings
• Acharya, D. (2023). Natural Farming. Gujarat Natural Farming and Organic Agricultural
University, Anand.
• Agarwal, M., Agarwal, S., Ahmad, S., Singh, R., & Jayahari, K. M. (2021). FOOD LOSS
AND WASTE IN INDIA: THE KNOWNS AND THE UNKNOWNS (Working Paper).
Mumbai, India: World Resources Institute India. Retrieved from http://www.wri.org/publica-
tion/food-loss-and-waste-in-india
• Directorate of Agriculture, ATMA & SAMETI. (n.d.). Lecture Outline Framework: Natural
Farming- Curriculum. Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
• Lecture Outline Framework: Natural Farming -Curriculum, ATMA & SAMETI Directorate,
Gujarat
• Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. (2014, November). Organic farming practices for
groundnut: Seed. Retrieved from
• Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. (n.d.). Organic farming practices for paddy: Seed. Re-
trieved from https://agritech.tnau.ac.in/org_farm/orgfarm_prac_agri_paddy_seed.html
• Training manual for Organic Agriculture by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the
United Nations (FAO). 2015 (https:/ /www.fao.org > fileadmin > templates > docs) Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 146 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 147
CHAPTER 9
Carbon Credits in
Natural Farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 148
9.1 Introduction
Natural Farming is an agricultural system that eliminates the use of all synthetic chemical
inputs and promotes on-farm biomass recycling to enhance soil biology. Beyond its well-
documented benefits for farmers and ecosystems, natural farming holds immense potential
in combating climate change. By reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and increasing
carbon sequestration in soils and vegetation, natural farming systems can generate carbon
credits, tradable units that represent one metric ton of carbon dioxide (CO₂) or its equivalent
reduced or removed from the atmosphere.
These credits can be sold in carbon markets, opening up an additional income source for
farmers while helping industries and governments meet their emission reduction targets.
As India strives toward its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris
Agreement, integrating natural farming with carbon credit mechanisms offers a strategic
opportunity for rural development and climate action.
9.2 What are Carbon Credits?
A carbon credit is a verified certificate representing 1 tonne of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e)
emissions avoided, reduced, or sequestered. They can be generated by various climate-
friendly projects, including forestry, renewable energy, and now, increasingly, climate-smart
agriculture. Credits can be sold in two main markets:
9.2.1 Voluntary Carbon Markets (VCM) – Companies or individuals buy credits to
offset their emissions voluntarily.
9.2.1 Compliance Markets – Regulated by governments under emission trading schemes.
For natural farming, credits usually fall under “soil carbon sequestration” and “methane/
nitrous oxide reduction” categories.
9.3 Carbon Credits Generation in Natural Farming
In natural farming, the accumulation of stable carbon in the soil is driven by the constant
addition of biomass through mulching and the enhanced activity of microorganisms. This
system converts agricultural lands into carbon sinks, which mitigates climate change and
improves the water-holding capacity of the soil. This enhancement increases resilience to
drought and rainfall variability. While precise large-scale quantification is an ongoing area
of research, the foundational principles align directly with the objectives of carbon farming.
Natural farming employs multiple regenerative practices that either remove carbon from
the atmosphere or prevent its release:
9.3.1 Increased Organic Matter Addition
(i) Regular application of farmyard manure (FYM), compost, crop residues, and
green manures builds soil organic carbon.
9.3.2 Agroforestry and Tree Integration
(i) Incorporating trees, hedges, and perennials enhances aboveground and
belowground biomass carbon. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 149
9.3.3 Mulching and Cover Cropping
(i) Maintains continuous soil cover, prevents erosion, and adds biomass.
9.3.4 Reduced Tillage and Soil Disturbance
(i) Helps preserve existing carbon stocks by minimizing oxidation.
9.3.5 Elimination of Synthetic Inputs
(i) Avoids nitrous oxide emissions from chemical fertilizers and reduces energy
footprint.
9.4 Steps to Generate Carbon Credits in Natural Farming
The stepwise flow for carbon credits estimation and trading in natural farming can be
learnt from Fig. 9.1.
Baseline Assessment
Adoption of Practices
Aggregation and Cluster Formation
Monitoring and Data Collection
Verification and Certification
Trading and Revenue Sharing
Measure initial soil organic carbon levels and current emissions profile.
Map land boundaries using GPS or satellite.
Shift to 100% natural farming: mulching, bio-formulations (Jivamrit, Bijamrit), green manuring, agroforestry.
Smallholders should form clusters, cooperatives, or FPOs (as promoted under NMNF)
to achieve economies of scale for verification.
Keep records of inputs used, area covered, crops grown, and carbon-enhancing activities.
Engage a recognised carbon standard agency (e.g., Verra, Gold Standard, or emerging Indian frameworks like
NFRS with carbon add-on modules). Independent auditors verify carbon gains.
Credits are sold in carbon markets; proceeds can be distributed among farmers or
reinvested into natural farming activities.
Fig. 9.1: Process Flow for Carbon Credit Generation under Natural Farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 150
Conclusion
Carbon credits in natural farming represent a win–win solution: they reward farmers for climate-
positive practices, reduce national GHG emissions, and attract new forms of green finance into
rural areas. While challenges remain, especially related to certification costs and awareness,
India’s large-scale initiatives like NMNF provide the ideal framework for rolling out carbon credit
programs. With proper support, a farmer practicing natural farming can not only restore soil and
ecosystem health but also earn while healing the planet. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 151
CHAPTER 10
Integrated
Framework and
Toolkit for Natural
Farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 152
This report presents a comprehensive and integrated vision for the implementation of Natural
Farming across India, framing it not merely as an alternative set of agricultural techniques, but as a
foundational paradigm shift toward ecological resilience, farmer profitability, and food sovereignty.
It offers a science-based, systematic approach that moves away from the high-cost, high-risk model
of chemical-dependent agriculture to a self-reliant system rooted in agroecological principles.
Its central argument is that by revitalising the living soil and working in harmony with natural
processes, farmers can break the cycle of debt, restore their land, and produce nutritious, chemical-
free food, thereby addressing some of the most pressing economic and environmental challenges
facing Indian agriculture today.
At the heart of this framework is the principle of shifting the focus from “feeding the plant” with
synthetic inputs to “nurturing the soil ecosystem.” A healthy, vibrant soil, teeming with microbial
life, is the true engine of farm productivity. This living soil can unlock and make available all
essential plant nutrients in a balanced form. Achieving such soil vitality requires the regular
preparation and application of on-farm microbial inoculants. The journey begins with Beejamrit,
a seed treatment made from cow dung, cow urine, and other local ingredients, which coats the
seed with protective beneficial microbes, ensuring robust germination and safeguarding young
seedlings from soil-borne pathogens. This is followed by routine applications of Jeevamrit, a
potent liquid microbial culture that multiplies soil microbial populations, and Ghanjeevamrit, its
solid, storable counterpart, applied as a basal dose to build long-term fertility.
Building on this microbial foundation, the practice of Acchadana or mulching is emphasised to keep
the soil covered 365 days a year. Bare soil is considered vulnerable and unproductive. Applying
straw, crop residues, or other biomass not only conserves moisture and suppresses weeds, but also
feeds soil organisms continuously, promoting the ideal Whapasa condition - the optimal balance
of air and water in soil pores. Complementing mulching is the practice of 365-Day Green Cover
(DGC), often initiated through Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing (PMDS) of diverse cover crops, which
prevents erosion, enhances water infiltration, and maintains a living root network to feed the soil
food web year-round.
The framework also recognises biodiversity as a cornerstone of resilience and natural pest regulation.
Instead of fragile monocultures, it advocates polyculture through intercropping and mixed cropping,
integrating legumes, cereals, oilseeds, and vegetables to disrupt pest cycles, improve nutrient cycling,
and diversify income sources. Border crops, trap crops such as marigold, and bird perches are
integrated as functional design elements to create a balanced on-farm ecosystem where beneficial
species thrive and pests are naturally controlled.
Empowerment through Atma Nirbharta (self-reliance) is central. Farmers are provided with clear,
step-by-step guidance to prepare all necessary inputs on-farm, from microbial inoculants to botanical
pest repellents such as Neemastra, Agniastra, and Brahmastra, using low-cost, locally available
resources. This drastically reduces input costs, alleviating indebtedness, while preserving traditional,
chemical-free post-harvest handling methods for cleaning, curing, and storage to maintain quality
and reduce losses.
Economic viability is strengthened by integrating production with formal recognition and market
access. Farmers are guided to obtain certification, particularly through the Participatory Guarantee Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 153
System (PGS-India), a cost-effective, peer-verified mechanism endorsed by the Government of
India, enabling even smallholders to access premium markets for naturally grown produce.
In this manual, the principles above have been explored in detail in their respective chapters:
the science of Natural Farming (Chapter 1), seed and soil management (Chapters 2–3), water
conservation (Chapter 4), pest and disease control (Chapter 5), bio-input preparation (Chapter
6), and certification and marketing (Chapter 7).
This chapter distils that body of knowledge into a practical, end-to-end operational framework
for farmers and extension officers. For farmers, it outlines what to do, what to know, and what to
have across the crop cycle. For extension officers, it presents a four-pillar strategy for persuasion,
training, input support, and marketing - ensuring that Natural Farming adoption is systematic,
supported, and sustainable at scale.
10.1 Farmer’s Toolkit: End-to-End
The farmer’s toolkit is structured to address the complete agricultural cycle. It should be
used as both a checklist and a planning tool. The three sections that follow describe the
activities to be undertaken, the knowledge to be acquired, and the resources to be secured.
10.1.1 What a Farmer Should Do
The key actions in Natural Farming follow the seasonal cropping sequence. Each
stage has specific tasks that must be completed within a defined time window to
ensure success. They are summarised in Table 10.1.
Table 10.1: Timeline of Farmer’s Key Natural Farming Actions
Crop StageKey Actions
Chapter
Reference
Pre-Season
(4–8 weeks
before sowing)
Registration with the State NF Cell or the National
Mission on Natural Farming portal; enrolment in crop
insurance schemes; baseline soil and water testing;
selection and procurement of indigenous seeds;
Scheduling preparation of bio-inputs such as Jeevamrit
and Ghanjeevamrit;
Initiating baseline data collection for carbon credit
registration
1, 2, 6, 8, 9, 11 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 154
Crop StageKey Actions
Chapter
Reference
Pre-Sowing
(1–2 weeks
before sowing)
Land preparation using minimum tillage, contour bun-
ding, and mulching;
Seed treatment with Beejamrit;
Preparation of Jeevamrit, Ghanjeevamrit, and botanical
pest-repellent extracts.
2, 3, 4, 6, 8
Estab-
lishment Stage
Sowing or transplanting as per crop requirement; in-
stallation and inspection of irrigation systems; first
application of Jeevamrit to promote root establishment
2, 6, 8
Vegetative Stage
Application of Jeevamrit at intervals of 7–15 days; use
of botanical sprays to prevent pest outbreaks; main-
tenance of organic mulch for weed suppression and
moisture conservation
3, 4, 5, 6, 8
Repro-
ductive Stage
Targeted botanical pest and disease management; ad-
justment of irrigation to flowering and grain-filling
needs; maintaining detailed records for certification
and carbon credits
4, 5, 7, 8, 9
Harvest and
Post-Harvest Stage
Marketing and certification7
10.1.2 What a Farmer Should Know
Successful Natural Farming requires not just action but understanding. Farmers
should be familiar with the following know-hows before initiating natural farming
(Fig. 10.1). Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 155
The scientific principles of soil ecology and the role of beneficial microorganisms in
nutrient cycling.
The composition, preparation methods, dosage, and application schedules for bio-inputs such as
Jeevamrit, Ghan Jeevamrit , and botanical extracts, as described in Chapter 6.
Water conservation and irrigation scheduling practices outlined in Chapter 4, including mi-
cro-irrigation methods and in-field water harvesting.
Ecological methods for pest, disease, and weed management explained in Chapter 5, including
trap cropping, botanical sprays, and mulching strategies.
Certification systems for Natural Farming, including Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) and
third-party certification processes, as described in Chapter 8.
The concept of carbon credits, eligibility criteria, registration procedures, and potential revenue
streams.
Post-harvest handling, grading, and NF-compliant storage practices from Chapter 7.
Record-keeping requirements for both certification and carbon credit verification.
Fig. 10.1: The Know-Hows of Natural Farming
10.1.3 What a Farmer Should Have
Natural Farming requires certain resources to be available and maintained in good
condition throughout the year. The Essential Resources for Natural Farming are
summarised in Table 10.2.
Table 10.2: Essential Resources for Natural Farming
Resource CategoryDetails
Livestock
At least one indigenous cow for bio-input preparation; poultry or ducks
for integrated pest management
Bio-Input
Infrastructure
Covered shed for fermentation; drums or tanks for liquid bio-inputs; sieves
and stirring implements Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 156
Resource CategoryDetails
Seed ResourcesIndigenous seed stock and access to community seed banks
Mulching MaterialCrop residues, green biomass, or tree leaves for soil cover
Irrigation FacilitiesDrip or sprinkler systems; farm pond or other rainwater harvesting structures
Post-
Harvest FacilitiesNF-compliant storage bins; grading tables; packaging materials for market-
ready produce
10.2 Extension Officers’ Framework for Natural Farming Promotion
Extension officers are the primary link between policy initiatives and farm-level implementation.
Their work spans farmer registration, persuasion, training, provision of input support,
and market linkage facilitation. This framework organises their responsibilities into four
coordinated pillars as given in Table 10.3.
Table 10.3: Extension Officer’s Four-Pillar Action Matrix
PillarKey Actions
Expected
Outcome
Persuasion
Organise exposure visits to established NF farms; conduct
sensitisation workshops; facilitate dissemination of NF in-
formation through local meetings; form NF farmer clusters;
establish Bio-Resource Centres (BRCs); connect farmers with
carbon credit agencies
Increased adoption
of NF practices
Training
Deliver structured training on NF science; demonstrate prepa-
ration and use of bio-inputs; link farmers to nearby BRCs;
train community resource persons
Enhanced farmer
competence and
self-reliance
Input
Support
Coordinate timely supply of seeds and bio-inputs through
BRCs; facilitate on-farm bio-input production; support infra-
structure development for irrigation and storage
Improved readiness
for each crop stage
Marketing
Assist farmers in certification processes; support branding and
packaging; connect farmers to premium NF markets
Better price realisa-
tion for NF produce Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 157
10.3 Conclusion
This integrated framework consolidates the key technical, operational, and institutional
elements necessary for the adoption and scaling of Natural Farming. By following the
actions outlined in What to Do, acquiring the skills in What to Know, and maintaining
the assets in What to Have, farmers can transition to Natural Farming with confidence.
Extension officers, by applying the four-pillar framework, can ensure that farmers are
supported from registration to market access, resulting in both environmental and economic
benefits. Natural Farming is therefore not only a set of techniques but a pathway towards
ecological balance, rural livelihood security, and long-term sustainability. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 158 Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 159
CHAPTER 11
Farmer Support
Arrangements for
Natural Farming Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 160
11.1 Introduction
Transitioning to natural farming requires more than knowledge of ecological practices.
Farmers need institutional, financial, and infrastructural support to successfully shift from
chemical-intensive farming. The Government of India has introduced several schemes to
support this transition by offering financial incentives, technical training, infrastructure
development, and marketing assistance. This chapter provides a detailed, step-by-step
guide to four major schemes:
• National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)
• PM PRANAM (Programme for Restoration, Awareness Generation, Nourishment
and Amelioration of Mother Earth)
• SATAT (Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation)
• GOBARDHAN (Galvanizing Organic Bio Agro Resources Dhan)
11.2 National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)
11.2.1 Objectives
(i) To promote nature-based sustainable systems of farming, enhancing the
usage of on-farm prepared bio-inputs to reduce dependency on externally
purchased inputs and lower the input costs.
(ii) To improve soil health and promote sustainable agriculture practices.
(iii) To popularise livestock (preferably local breed of cow) integrated
agriculture-animal husbandry models.
(iv) To strengthen on-farm agroecological research and knowledge-based
extension capacities of ICAR institutions, KVKs, Agricultural Universities,
etc.
(v) To build upon the on-field experience of practicing NF farmers and scientific
expertise to thereby evolve & improvise location specific NF package of
practices for increased spread of NF.
(vi) To establish scientifically supported common standards and easy farmer
friendly certification procedures for naturally grown chemical-free produce.
(vii) To create and promote a single national brand for naturally grown chemical-
free produce.
11.2.2 Eligibility
(i) All farmers, including tenant farmers and sharecroppers.
(ii) Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), cooperatives, and Self-Help
Groups (SHGs). Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 161
(iii) Clusters organised at village or block level (minimum cluster size is 50
hectare and 125 farmers, which can include individual or pooled holdings).
11.2.3 Execution of the Mission
(i) Cluster Identification and Registration: Clusters of minimum 50 ha are
identified by state agriculture departments or farmer collectives.
(ii) Submission of Cluster Plan: Details of farmers, crops, proposed natural
inputs, and resource mapping must be submitted.
(iii) Capacity Building and Training: Farmers undergo training programs
organised by state or central agencies.
(iv) Approval and Fund Release: Cluster plans are reviewed and approved by
state-level committees. Funds are released in a phased manner under the
NMNF.
11.2.4 Key Support Arrangements of the Mission
(i) NF Demonstration Farms: Approximately 2060 NF model demonstration
farms will be established for hands-on training on natural farming. The NF
model demonstration farms will be established by each of the 665 training
institutes:
• Three at farmers’ fields and one at on-station developed by each of the
425 Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVKs) and 40 Agricultural Universities
(AUs).
• One NF model demonstration farm will be established by each of the
200 LNFI. Further, FMT, Krishi Sakhis (Community Resource Persons
- CRP) will also have their farms as NF model demonstration farms.
• The NF demonstration farms shall receive the following benefits
48
:
»₹50,000/- per NF model demonstration farm, as per actuals, for 2
years
»One time Costs: ₹10,000
»Tools, equipment for input preparation: ₹5000
»Other Infrastructure - boards, posters, etc.: ₹5000
»Support per season for 2 years (4 seasons): ₹10,000
»Raw materials for input preparation: ₹4000
»Biomass mulching material: ₹4000
»Seed and planting materials: ₹2000
(ii) Support for BRCs:
• A support of ₹100,000/- (per BRC) is provided for setting up of
Bioinput Resource Centres.
• Further, training and capacity building for BRC entrepreneurs is also
48 https://agriwelfare.gov.in/Documents/HomeWhatsNew/GuidelineofNMNF_FinalApproved_27122024.pdf Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 162
provided under the mission.
(iii) Certification: A support of ₹2100/- per hectare is provided for NF
Certification for the trained willing farmers.
(iv) Training and Capacity Building:
• Farmer Training shall be organised at KVK/ AU/ LNFI.
• Local Natural Farming Institutions (LNFI) are fully functional NF
farms existing for more than 3 years in at least 2 acres of land, which
are already used as training sites. LNFI will be identified by State/ UTs
and onboarded on the NMNF IT portal.
• The on-field training and extension system will be supported by Farmer
Master Trainers (FMT) - farmers who are practicing NF for a minimum
of 3 years and their farms would also serve as NF model demonstration
farms.
• The Krishi Sakhis (CRP) will undergo on-field hands-on training by
FMTs and Scientists/ Experts associated with KVK/ AU/ LNFI. A team
of 2 Krishi Sakhis (CRP) will mobilise approximately 125 willing
farmers and form a cluster (cumulative area of 50 ha).
Support for exposure visits, marketing linkages, and certification processes is provided.
11.3 SATAT
11.3.1 Objectives
(i) Promote the production of Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) from agricultural
residues, animal dung, and other organic wastes.
(ii) Create a market for crop residues which otherwise may be burnt or wasted.
(iii) Provide nutrient-rich organic slurry and compost as by-products for use in
natural farming.
11.3.2 Eligibility
(i) All the existing and upcoming CBG projects using at least 50% biomass
(Agri residue) as feedstock as per Detailed Project Report (DPR).
(ii) CBG projects must have an installed or proposed CBG production capacity
of at least 2 tonnes per day (TPD) and be registered on the GOBARdhan
portal.
(iii) Under construction projects with at least 50% of physical progress as per
DPR shall be considered eligible.
(iv) CBG project has not availed any benefits/ subsidy/ assistance on the
machinery/ equipment to be procured under this scheme from any other
Central Government/State Government schemes. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 163
11.3.3 Procedure for Application
(i) Locate nearby SATAT-affiliated CBG plants through oil marketing
company (OMC) websites or state energy departments.
(ii) Sign an agreement with the plant operator for supply of crop residues,
dung, or organic waste.
(iii) The application for financial assistance may be submitted on the designated
portal (https://satat.co.in/satat/#/) on quarterly basis between 1st to 30th
day of every quarter. For example, for the quarter April- June 2024, the
applications can be submitted between 1st April to 30th April 2024.
(iv) Application will be examined by Project Management Agency (PMA).
PMA will shortlist selected beneficiary within the approved budget and
submit the same to PAC on monthly basis. Project Appraisal Committee
(PAC) will recommend to Project Approval Board (PAB). After PAB
approval, PMA will send the approval to beneficiary and Central Nodal
Agency (CNA).
(v) After approval, CBG producer shall deposit: (i) CBG producer shall
deposit the total cost of the Biomass Aggregation Machinery (BAM) in
OEM /its authorised dealer/distributor account from their own fund, (ii)
Margin money in OEM /its authorised dealer/distributor account and avail
credit facility availed from banks and financial institutions for remaining
cost of the BAM.
(vi) The CBG producer will receive the equipment as elucidated in scheme
guidelines.
(vii) The CBG producer will upload the application for release of financial
assistance along with relevant documents on the designated portal for
release of funds. After receiving documents, PMA will conduct physical
verification of the equipment and upload verification report.
(viii) PMA will submit the proposal along with recommendation for release
of FA to the Ministry. Ministry shall process the proposal and, after
due approval, release the funds to the CNA for releasing the financial
assistance in Bank/ financial institution/Beneficiary’ account as the case
may be. CNA will release the financial assistance.
(ix) Deliver biomass periodically based on plant requirements. Beneficiary
will upload a report of quantity of biomass collected from these BAM sets
in last calendar year by 31st January of next year.
(x) Collect the by-product slurry or compost, which can be used directly or
after further curing.
(xi) Beneficiary shall get the eligible equipment/ machinery of value above Rs.
5 lakhs suitably insured against loss by damage, theft, fire, act of God, etc. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 164
11.3.4 Key Support Arrangements of the Scheme
• Maximum financial assistance of 50% of the procurement cost of biomass
aggregation machinery or Rs. 90 lakh per set (whichever is less) will be
admissible as grant to a CBG producer.
• The financial assistance of Rs. 1.8 crore for 4 TPD CBG capacity project
would be provided with a capping of Rs. 9 crore per project on pro rata basis.
11.3.5 Benefits
• Additional income from sale of agricultural residues or animal waste.
• Access to high-quality organic manure or slurry at low or no cost.
• Contribution to waste management and reduction of stubble burning.
• Opportunity for FPOs to set up value-added services like slurry enrichment.
11.4 GOBARDHAN
11.4.1 Objectives
To support the setting up of Waste to Energy projects for generation of Biogas/
BioCNG/ Power/ producer or syngas from urban, industrial and agricultural
wastes/residues.
11.4.2 Eligibility
• The company or a partner of the Consortium, JV/ SPV interested in availing
the benefits of the programme can be Local Bodies / Municipal Corporations,
Govt. or Private Sector Companies/ firms, Central Public Sector Undertaking
(CPSU), Joint Sector Companies, Trusts, NGO, Societies, Cooperatives,
Entrepreneurs, Partnership firms, Limited Liability Partnerships, Energy
Service Companies (ESCOs).
• Gaushalas seeking benefits of the scheme should be registered with the state
government.
11.4.3 Application Procedure
(i) Submission of proposal: The proposal for grant of “In-Principle” approval
of Central Financial Assistance (CFA) will be accepted through BioURJA
Portal (https://biourja.mnre.gov.in) before commissioning of the proposed
plant.
(ii) In-principle approval:
• In case loan drawn by the developer of Waste to Energy plant is
equal or more than from eligible CFA, the Implementation Agency
shall receive the applications through BioURJA portal, examine the
applications and shall forward the consolidated proposal to Ministry on
bimonthly basis. The Ministry shall issue an “In-Principle” approval
with the concurrence of IFD and approval of Secretary, MNRE. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 165
• For projects without debt/loan or projects wherein loan drawn
by the developer of Waste to Energy plant is less than the eligible
CFA, the Implementation Agency shall receive the applications
through BioURJA portal, examine the applications and thereafter the
applications will be put up to Project Appraisal Committee (PAC).
Only PAC recommended applications will be forwarded to Ministry
in a consolidated manner on bimonthly basis. The Ministry shall issue
an “In-Principle” approval with the concurrence of IFD and approval
of Secretary, MNRE.
(iii) Commissioning of the plant:
• The time period for commissioning is 24 months for WTE plants
and 12 months for Biomass Gasifiers from the date of “In-Principle”
approval.
• After submission of application in the BioURJA portal, if developers
intend to commission the plant before “In-Principle” approval of
CFA is accorded, prior intimation of commissioning the plant to IA is
mandatory.
(iv) Plant performance: Inspection team will visit the plant for performance
inspection based on request from the developer. The performance
inspection of the plant will have to be carried out within 18 months from
the date of commissioning beyond which “In-Principle” approval will be
cancelled except in those cases where reason(s) of delay in inspection is
(are) beyond the control of developer.
11.4.4 Key Support Arrangements in the Scheme
Standard pattern of CFA for grant of ‘In-principal Approval’ to Waste to Energy
projects under the programme is as given in Table 11.1.
Table 11.1: GOBARDHAN Scheme: Standard Pattern of CFA for Waste To Energy Projects
S.No. Type of projectStandard CFA rate @ installed capacity of the plant
1 Biogas
Rs 0.25 Cr per 12000 cubic metres (maximum CFA of Rs. 5.0
Cr/project)
2
BioCNG / Enriched Biogas/
Compressed Bio Gas
-Rs 4.0 Cr per 4800 kg/day (for BioCNG generation from
new biogas plant)
-Rs 3.0 Cr per 4800 kg/day (for BioCNG generation from
existing Biogas plant#)
-Maximum CFA of Rs. 10.0 Cr/project for both cases. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 166
S.No. Type of projectStandard CFA rate @ installed capacity of the plant
3 Power (based on Biogas)
-Rs 0.75 Cr/MW (for power generation from new
biogas plant)
-Rs 0.5 Cr /MW (for power generation from existing
Biogas plant#)
-Maximum CFA of Rs. 5.0 Cr/project for both cases.
4
Power based on bio
& agro-industrial
waste (other than
MSW through
incineration process).
Rs 0.4 Cr/MW
(maximum CFA of Rs. 5.0 Cr/project)
5
Biomass
Gasifier
for electricity/thermal
applications
Rs. 2,500 per kWe with dual fuel engines for
electrical application
Rs. 15,000 per kWe with 100% gas engines for
electrical application
Rs. 2 lakh per 300 kWth for thermal applications.
In case Developer is setting up a new BioCNG/ Power plant based on Biogas already available or
generated from already commissioned/operational/existing biogas plant or have already availed
financial assistance from Government of India for Biogas plant, then CFA will be provided only
for conversion of biogas to BioCNG (@Rs 3.0 Cr per 4800 kg/day) or biogas to power (Rs 0.5
Cr /MW), as mentioned in the table above.
11.4.5 Benefits
• Biogas for cooking or electricity generation.
• Packaged organic manure for sale or self-use.
• Additional income from by-product sales.
• Reduction of methane emissions from unmanaged dung.
11.5 E-Resources for Natural Farming
Digital platforms and online resources play an important role in supporting the transition
to Natural Farming by providing access to training materials, advisories, implementation
guidelines, and market linkages. These e-resources assist farmers, field functionaries, and
trainers in accessing reliable, updated, and standardised information related to Natural
Farming practices and schemes.
11.5.1 National-Level Natural Farming Resources
• NITI Aayog Natural Farming Portal: This portal aggregates Natural
Farming knowledge, evidence, impact metrics, state progress dashboards,
case studies, policy briefs, research insights, and implementation frameworks
curated by NITI Aayog. It serves as a knowledge hub for planners, trainers,
and researchers involved in Natural Farming at national and state levels. Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 167
Website: https://naturalfarming.niti.gov.in
• Natural Farming Portal of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers
Welfare (DAC&FW): The DAC&FW Natural Farming Portal provides
scheme guidelines under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF),
technical protocols (e.g., Jeevamrit, Beejamrit), training material, approved
bio-input practices, and state-wise implementation status.
Website: https://naturalfarming.dac.gov.in
• Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, NMNF Section: The
Ministry’s official portal hosts scheme documents, operational guidelines,
implementation frameworks, and programme updates associated with the
National Mission on Natural Farming.
Website: https://agri coop.nic.in
11.5.2 Some Key State-Level Natural Farming Digital Platforms
• Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF): The
APCNF portal contains structured training curriculums, farmer manuals, bio-
input preparation guides, field advisories, video tutorials, and implementation
dashboards for one of India’s largest Natural Farming initiatives.
Website: https://apcnf.in
• Himachal Pradesh Prakritik Kheti Portal: This state portal provides
resources on Prakritik Kheti, including technical advisories, input preparation
videos, farmer outreach tools, and extension support materials that align with
Natural Farming practices.
Website: https://hpagriculture.com (Prakritik Kheti section)
• Gujarat Natural Farming Science University (GNFSU): GNFSU offers
academic and training resources, research publications, syllabi, and digital
modules specifically focused on Natural Farming science and practice.
Website: https://g nfsu.edu.in
11.5.3 Digital Training and Knowledge Repositories
• NMNF Training Modules (DAC&FW): Standardised training modules, field
guides, SOPs, and audio-visual materials created under the National Mission
on Natural Farming are accessible for trainers and extension personnel.
Website: https://naturalfarming.dac.gov.in/training
• APCNF Knowledge Repository: A curated repository of manuals, field
protocols, training videos, and practice notes covering Natural Farming
inputs, crop systems, and implementation experiences.
Website: https://apcnf.in/resources Empowering Farmers: Natural Farming Training Toolkit and Best Practices Guide 168
11.5.4 Advisory and Market Support Tools
• mKisan Portal: Provides personalised SMS and voice advisories to farmers
on crop management, weather, pest alerts, and Natural Farming best practices.
Website: https://mk isan.gov.in
• National Agriculture Market (e-NAM): Digital platform facilitating market
access, price discovery, and transparent trading, supporting farmers practicing
Natural Farming in selling produce at competitive prices.
Website: https://www.enam.gov.in LIST OF REVIEWERS
Ms. Dipali Rastogi, IAS
Principal Secretary (Dept. of Panchayat and Rural Development) & Additional Chief Secretary
(ACS), Government of Madhya Pradesh
Dr. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel
Vice Chancellor
Dr. Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (YSP-UHF)
Dr. C K Timbadia
Vice Chancellor
Gujarat Natural Farming Science University (GNFSU)
Dr. N. Balasubramani
Director, Center for Sustainable Agriculture & Climate Change and Adaptation (CSA & CCA)
National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE)
Dr. N. Ravisankar
Project Coordinator, All India Coordinated Research Project on Integrated Farming Systems
ICAR-Indian Institute of Farming Systems Research NOTES NOTES NOTES