Organic or ecological or biological farming is a holistic approach which relies mainly on organic sources of fertilizers— compost manure, green manure, bone meal, bio-fertilizers and agronomic practices like crop rotation and companion planting. Apart from it, biological pest control, ecological engineering, mixed cropping and the fostering of insect predators is also emphasized. Besides, prohibition of synthetic substances and use of only naturally occurring substances is regulated by organic standards.
As far as Jammu and Kashmir is concerned, the Central Government has given priority in promoting organic agriculture. As of now, an area of 1180 hectares stands identified for organic farming and around 3000 farmers have been given the training in organic farming, as per officials.
As per experts, organic farming advocates sustainability, self-sufficiency, autonomy, health, food security, food safety and also promotes crop diversity in terms of polyculture. Due to inhibition of herbicides and pesticides, a boost in biodiversity fitness and population density is observed. Organic farming not only builds healthy soil but also helps combat erosion, supports water conservation and water health, the experts underline. Food safety is also ameliorated on account of lower nitrogen application, minimal use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers which in turn reduces the incidences of cancer, coronary heart disease and stroke. Organic food is healthier, tastier, authentic, natural, free from pesticides, antibiotics and Genetically Modified Organisms, low in nitrate content, safe and certified over non-organic food. It has the potential to support biodiversity conservation by augmenting the number as well as the diversity of the wild species on farms, maintaining soil health and thus soil flora and fauna, reducing the risk of water pollution and being energy efficient.
Earlier this year, the Lieutenant Governor asked the Agriculture Universities of J&K to work on mission mode to connect more farmers with organic farming and horticulture. There is a need for the officials and agricultural scientists to consistently disseminate relevant and authentic information to the farmers regarding organic farming so that small and marginal farmers can also take advantage of it.
In meeting the endeavor, the government must lend support to the farmers as organic farming has significant costs at the beginning, pest issues, expensive products for small farmers, strict regulatory standards, high certification costs, need of expert knowledge, etc. With all the benefits, the organic should not be seen as an isolated technology but as a systematic approach for sustainable development.
