In a big decision, the Union Cabinet has approved the launch of National Mission on Natural Farming with a total outlay of Rs 2481 crore. The mission, which aims to promote natural farming in a mission mode across the country, will reduce input costs for farmers and promote biodiversity. This decision reflects the government's commitment to the welfare of farmers and sustainable agricultural practices.
Unlocking the Potential of Natural Farming: India's National Mission
Background
As the global population continues to expand, the demand for food and agricultural products is skyrocketing. However, conventional farming practices have taken a toll on the environment, leading to soil degradation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss.
To address these challenges, India has embarked on a revolutionary mission to promote natural farming across the country. The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) was launched in 2021 with an ambitious goal of converting 10 million hectares of farmland to natural farming by 2025.
Objectives of the NMNF
The NMNF aims to revolutionize Indian agriculture by transforming conventional practices into sustainable, eco-friendly, and farmer-centric approaches. Its core objectives include:
Mission Implementation
The NMNF will be implemented through a phased approach, with the first phase focusing on establishing 15 clusters in different agro-climatic zones. Farmers will be provided with training, inputs, and guidance to transition to natural farming.
The mission will also promote research and development, market linkages, and farmer-to-farmer knowledge exchange.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is natural farming?
Natural farming is a holistic farming system that relies on natural processes and inputs to maintain soil health, crop productivity, and biodiversity without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides.
2. Why is natural farming important?
Natural farming practices improve soil health, reduce input costs for farmers, enhance crop resilience to climate change, and promote biodiversity.
3. How does the NMNF benefit farmers?
Farmers participating in the NMNF will receive training, inputs, and guidance to transition to natural farming. The mission aims to reduce their input costs, increase their income, and improve their overall livelihoods.
4. What are the key features of the NMNF?
The NMNF focuses on promoting a holistic approach to farming, including the use of indigenous breeds of livestock, integrated pest management, and water conservation techniques.
5. How can I participate in the NMNF?
Interested farmers can contact their local agricultural extension offices or visit the NMNF website for information on training and support programs.
Conclusion
The National Mission on Natural Farming is a bold and transformative initiative that has the potential to revolutionize agriculture in India. By promoting sustainable, farmer-centric practices, it aims to ensure food security, protect the environment, and improve the livelihoods of farmers. As the mission progresses, it will be essential to provide continued support to farmers and ensure that the benefits of natural farming are disseminated widely.
BR Patil, Congress MLA from Karnataka's Aland, has claimed that there was an attempt by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to steal votes leading up to the 2023 elections in the state. This allegation, backed by evidence of over 6,000 voter deletions, has been supported by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi who has accused the BJP of systematically deleting the names of Congress voters. The BJP has denied these allegations, calling it a ploy by the Congress to discredit them and gain political mileage. However, Gandhi has hinted at more significant revelations to come.
Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, slammed the Karnataka government for the deteriorating state of Bengaluru's infrastructure, which has resulted in an IT company moving out of the city. He criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for their negligence and corruption. Kumaraswamy appealed to the industries not to leave Bengaluru and promised to rebuild the city. He also called out the government for their failure in utilizing taxpayers' money for development and demanded answers for the same.
In a press conference, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi unveiled evidence showing a widespread conspiracy to delete voters from electoral rolls in India. He presented examples and detailed data indicating that the alleged operations were carried out through automated systems and coordinated at a centralized level. Gandhi claimed that these tactics were used to manipulate elections in several states, and also accused the Election Commission of facilitating this voter deletion.
During a press conference, Rahul Gandhi accused Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar of aiding the suppression of votes belonging to marginalized communities like Dalits and minorities. The Election Commission denied the allegations, stating that no vote can be deleted online without proper procedures and investigation. However, the poll body did acknowledge failed attempts to delete votes in Karnataka's Aland constituency in 2023 and an FIR has been filed to investigate. The Congress leader claimed that the Election Commission is purposely obstructing investigations to hide the truth about these deletions.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi once again stirred up controversy by accusing the BJP and Election Commission of systematic voter fraud through manipulation of electoral rolls. In response, BJP MP Anurag Thakur fired back, accusing Gandhi of spreading baseless allegations and undermining democracy. The Election Commission has dismissed all of Gandhi's claims, citing that no voter's name can be deleted through online means without proper procedure.
Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi is set to address a press conference on Thursday, where he is expected to present evidence of alleged vote theft in Indian elections. Gandhi has been vocal about the issue in previous speeches, accusing the government of using unfair means to form their power. He also claimed that the Election Commission is working in collaboration with the ruling party. The Congress promised to provide proof to back their claims and expose corruption in the Mahadevapura Assembly segment in Karnataka.
The centre has directed the removal of 138 YouTube videos and 83 Instagram posts related to Adani, citing a Delhi court order. The move comes amid ongoing disputes over the Adani Group's involvement in various projects. This action has been met with criticism, with some questioning the government's interference in online content.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi revealed that the party has uncovered over 6,000 voter deletions in Aland constituency, Karnataka, ahead of the 2023 Assembly elections. According to their investigation, these deletions were not random or accidental but specifically targeted booths where the party was performing strongly. The deletions were carried out through fake applications and mobile numbers from outside Karnataka, raising concerns of an organized effort to manipulate the election process. Congress is calling for a thorough investigation to uphold the integrity of the democratic process.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of protecting those involved in "vote chori" (vote stealing) and undermining democracy. He cited recent instances of voter deletions in Karnataka's Aland and fraudulent additions in Maharashtra's Rajura as evidence of systematic targeting of Congress voters. Speaking at a press conference, Gandhi urged for a fair and transparent election process to uphold the principles of democracy.
Congress MP and leader of opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, held a news conference and claimed that the Chief Election Commissioner is protecting those who are destroying the Constitution and democracy in India. He also alleged that a group of people is systematically cutting the votes of minority groups who vote for the Congress party. In response, politicians from different parties have dismissed his accusations and stated that he is making these statements out of desperation and frustration.