The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) is a transformative initiative launched by the Government of India to mainstream chemical-free farming practices rooted in traditional knowledge. Approved by the Union Cabinet under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, NMNF is envisioned as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme with a total financial outlay of ₹2,481 crore—the Centre contributing ₹1,584 crore, and the states providing ₹897 crore under the 15th Finance Commission (2025-26). By promoting Natural Farming (NF) across India, NMNF seeks to address critical issues such as soil health degradation, biodiversity loss, and the rising costs of external farming inputs.
This mission is inspired by ancient agricultural wisdom that emphasizes the use of local agro-ecological principles, diversified cropping systems, and inputs derived from livestock and plant resources. Natural farming is characterized by practices like chemical-free cultivation, organic manure preparations (such as Jeevamrit and Beejamrit), and reduced dependency on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The goal is to create a sustainable farming ecosystem that delivers nutritious food, revitalizes soil ecosystems, enhances biodiversity, and reduces environmental risks.
How will the NMNF be implemented?
The NMNF has been designed as a structured and phased implementation program with ambitious targets to cover both farmers and geographical regions. Over the next two years:
- 15,000 clusters will be developed in willing Gram Panchayats to initiate natural farming practices. These clusters will span an additional 7.5 lakh hectares of land.
- The scheme aims to engage 1 crore farmers in natural farming practices, focusing on districts with high fertilizer consumption and regions along the Namami Gange corridor.
- 10,000 Bio-input Resource Centres (BRCs) will be established to ensure farmers have easy access to natural farming inputs like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit.
- 2,000 Model Demonstration Farms will be created across Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Agricultural Universities (AUs), and farmers’ fields to provide practical training.
- 18.75 lakh trained farmers will be supported to prepare natural inputs using their livestock or by sourcing from BRCs.
- A dedicated team of 30,000 Krishi Sakhis/Community Resource Persons (CRPs) will work at the grassroots level to generate awareness, mobilize farmers, and provide technical handholding.
Real-time monitoring and geo-tagging of activities will be conducted through an online portal, ensuring transparency and accountability.
How is NMNF different from earlier initiatives?
NMNF builds on the successes and lessons of earlier schemes like the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhti (BPKP) and the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY). Unlike these programs, NMNF takes a mission-mode approach with a larger budgetary allocation, expanded farmer outreach, and systematic integration with scientific and market-support frameworks. It also emphasizes:
- Certification and Branding: A simplified certification process will help farmers market their produce under a common national brand, ensuring premium returns for their chemical-free crops.
- Comprehensive Ecosystem Support: By converging with existing government schemes and involving national and international organizations, NMNF provides infrastructural, financial, and educational support.
- Capacity Building: Dedicated training programs and RAWE (Rural Agricultural Work Experience) initiatives will engage students and institutions in advancing natural farming methodologies.
What are the benefits of Natural Farming under NMNF?
The adoption of natural farming practices under NMNF promises transformative benefits across ecological, economic, and social dimensions:
- Environmental Sustainability: By reducing dependency on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, natural farming revitalizes soil fertility, improves carbon content, and enhances water-use efficiency. It also promotes biodiversity, contributing to resilient agricultural ecosystems.
- Economic Savings for Farmers: Natural farming reduces input costs significantly by eliminating the need for externally purchased chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This makes farming more profitable and less resource-intensive.
- Climate Resilience: Natural farming strengthens agricultural systems against climate risks such as droughts, floods, and waterlogging, ensuring stability in production.
- Health Benefits: By eliminating chemical residues in food, natural farming contributes to better health for farmers, their families, and consumers. It also minimizes the risk of occupational exposure to hazardous agrochemicals.
- Legacy for Future Generations: Sustainable farming practices under NMNF ensure a healthier planet and better agricultural opportunities for the coming generations.
How will NMNF ensure market access and scalability?
To ensure the success of natural farming produce in the marketplace, NMNF incorporates several forward-looking strategies:
- Dedicated Branding and Certification: The scheme introduces farmer-friendly certification standards and a unified branding strategy to enhance marketability.
- Market Linkages: Convergence with schemes such as APMC Mandis, local Haats, and depots will strengthen supply chains. District- and block-level support will facilitate farmer-to-consumer connections.
- Public-Private Collaboration: Partnerships with state governments, private entities, and international organizations will provide robust infrastructure and market opportunities.
In addition, NMNF envisions engaging students through dedicated courses and research programs, fostering a generation of agricultural professionals equipped with skills in sustainable farming.
What progress has been achieved so far?
As of now, 22 lakh hectares of land have been brought under natural farming practices, involving over 34 lakh farmers. This includes:
- 4 lakh hectares under BPKP.
- 88,000 hectares under the Namami Gange initiative.
- 17 lakh hectares covered through state-level natural farming programs.
The NMNF aims to add 7.5 lakh hectares more to this area in the coming years, with a strong focus on districts with high chemical fertilizer use.
Why is NMNF crucial for India’s agricultural future?
India’s agriculture faces significant challenges, including soil depletion, rising input costs, and ecological imbalances. Excessive fertilizer use not only threatens environmental sustainability but also endangers public health through contaminated food systems. NMNF provides a comprehensive solution by promoting practices that are economically viable, environmentally friendly, and socially equitable. By empowering farmers with the tools and knowledge for chemical-free farming, the mission ensures better livelihoods, healthier food systems, and a sustainable future.