Inaugural programme of five days Natural Farming capacity development programme for 50 no. Krishi Sakhis-Community Resource persons in collaboration with Dept. of Agriculture, Kodagu and SAMETI, Directorate of Extension, UAS, Bengaluru under National Mission on Natural Farming conducted at ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Gonikoppal, Kodagu from 13 to 17 October 2025. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Chandrashekar. B.S, Joint Director of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture, Kodagu District on 13 October 2025. Speaking on the occasion, he opined that, natural farming is a traditional method of farming using the locally available resources at very low cost. This type of farming is able to produce chemical free food and can provide lifestyle among the population to promote the natural farming among the farmers.

Natural farming is important because it enhances soil fertility, boosts farmer income by reducing costs, and improves human and environmental health by eliminating synthetic chemicals. It works with nature to create sustainable agricultural systems that conserve water, protect biodiversity, and mitigate climate change. Practices like using natural inputs and minimizing soil disturbance rejuvenate soil biology, increase organic matter, and improve its structure and water-holding capacity. Mulching and other natural methods help the soil retain moisture, reducing the need for excessive irrigation and improving resilience in dry conditions. By eliminating synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, it prevents chemical runoff from contaminating soil, water bodies, and the atmosphere. Healthy soil acts as a carbon sink, and overall practices have a lower carbon footprint than conventional methods. It significantly reduces the cost of cultivation by relying on on-farm, natural, and home-grown inputs instead of expensive chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The reduction in costs and potential for better yields can lead to increased profits and greater economic stability for farmers. It can create jobs across the agricultural value chain, from production to distribution. The Department has initiated the demonstrations in 25 clusters and he stressed for speedy adoption of the natural farming practices among the farmers.