Question : Organic Farming

(a) whether the Government has undertaken research and development works to explore the possibilities of organic farming in the country;

(b) if so, the details and the outcome thereof;

(c) whether the Government proposes to send some noted agriculture scientists to foreign countries for study and research of bio/organic fertilizers so as to improve the quality of the same and if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether the Government proposes to impart training to the farmers for utilisation of modern and latest technology in the organic farming; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE

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(a) to (e): Yes, Madam. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) through its Plan Scheme “Network Project on Organic Farming” (NPOF) is undertaking research to develop location specific organic farming package of practices for crops and cropping systems. Presently, the project is being implemented in 20 centres covering 16 states. Organic farming packages of practices for 18 crops/ cropping systems have been developed.

Besides, the Council under Network project on “Soil Biodiversity – Biofertilisers” has developed improved and effective strains of biofertilisers that are specific to different crops and soil types. Liquid Biofertiliser technology with higher shelf-life has also been developed. The Council has also developed technologies to prepare various types of organic manures, such as phosphocompost, vermin
compost, municipal solid waste compost, bio-enriched compost etc from various organic wates.

The ICAR also imparts training, organizes Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) to educate farmers on all these aspects.

Agricultural scientists visit abroad for study and research in the field of bio/organic farming under various bilaterial programme/ Work Plan/ Foreign collaborative projects/ World Bank aided projects etc. as and when required.
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