Zero Budget Natural Farming
Natural Farming: transforming agriculture from chemical-dependent to cost-effective & climate-resilient system.
The over-reliance on resource-intensive chemical farming practices has led to a multitude of challenges, including financial losses, mounting debts for farmers, degradation of soil health, contamination of waterways, encroachment on forest land, loss of biodiversity, and exacerbation of water scarcity over time.
Summary tagline
Solutions
Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) is a holistic alternative agriculture method that combines the twin goals of global food security and conservation of the environment. ZBNF principles are in sync with the principles of agroecology and aim to achieve the welfare of farmers and consumers while striving for a larger social good. ZBNF was pioneered by a Padma Sree Awardee called Mr. Subhash Palekar who believes in the cultivation of crops naturally without using Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), chemical fertilizers, and synthetic pesticides.
Impact
Natural Farming has brought a crucial shift away from chemical-dependent practices, benefiting small and marginal farmers in Khazipeta, Vallur, Muddanur, and Chintakomma Dinne, who are vulnerable to pesticide poisoning and debt cycles. By integrating animal husbandry and focusing on agroecological principles, this approach enriches soil nutrients, manages pests naturally, and enhances dietary diversity.
Grameena Vikas Kendram has empowered and trained 2,500 farmers, successfully eliminating chemical inputs and GMOs from 3,000 acres, creating healthier, climate-resilient farm systems.
