Himachal Pradesh Leads the Way in Natural Farming

Himachal Pradesh is pioneering natural farming in India, introducing a minimum support price for naturally grown produce. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted the advancements and certification system during a meeting with French scientists. The state aims to be a leader in natural farming within five to six years.

Himachal Pradesh stands at the forefront of natural farming in India, becoming the first state to introduce a minimum support price for products grown under natural farming practices, according to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

During a meeting with a delegation from the French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment (INRAE), Sukhu announced that the state procures wheat at Rs 40 per kg and maize at Rs 30 per kg, with cow milk purchased at Rs 45 per litre and buffalo milk at Rs 55 per litre.

The delegation's visit, as part of the European Commission-funded ACROPICS project, aims to study advancements in natural farming. The French scientists praised the state's efforts and the CETARA certification system, which ensures fair prices for farmers. INRAE may consider adopting this certification system internationally.

(With inputs from agencies.)