“Boosting Sustainability: Indian Farmers Embrace Zero-Budget Natural Farming”
A growing number of farmers across India are shifting toward Zero-Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), a technique that eliminates the need for costly chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The ZBNF approach, promoted by the Indian government and pioneered by agricultural expert Subhash Palekar, encourages farmers to use locally sourced, natural inputs like cow dung, cow urine, and plant-based fertilizers. This method not only reduces farming costs but also improves soil health and biodiversity.
Farmers adopting ZBNF practices report healthier soil and higher crop resilience against pests and diseases. In states like Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh, ZBNF has gained substantial traction, and state governments have launched programs to support farmers in making the transition.
ZBNF is seen as a sustainable alternative to conventional farming, addressing the issues of soil degradation and high input costs that have affected India’s agricultural productivity. As more farmers embrace ZBNF, the technique is expected to boost crop quality and yield, reduce the ecological footprint of farming, and help rural communities achieve economic stability while protecting India’s natural resources.