Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Padhati (BPKP) is a progressive step towards sustainable agriculture in India, launched as a sub-scheme of the centrally sponsored Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) during the fiscal year 2020-21. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to reviving traditional farming techniques that are eco-friendly and cost-effective. By focusing on natural farming methods, BPKP aims to reduce farmers’ dependency on external inputs like synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which can be expensive and harmful to the environment.
Objective of BPKP
The primary objective of the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Padhati is to promote traditional indigenous practices of farming. These practices are rooted in the wisdom passed down through generations and are adapted to local conditions and ecosystems. The emphasis is on using natural resources effectively while maintaining soil health and biodiversity. By doing so, the scheme intends to support the ecological balance and enhance the sustainability of agricultural practices.
Natural Farming at the Core
Natural farming stands at the core of BPKP. It is an approach that eschews the use of synthetic chemicals and relies on the principles of nature to grow crops. This method is not only gentle on the earth but also ensures the production of wholesome and healthy food. Natural farming includes practices such as using locally available resources for manure and pest control, thus reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting agricultural inputs.
Implementation Across States
The scheme has been rolled out in various states across India, including Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka. These states have been chosen based on their readiness to adopt natural farming methods and the presence of farmers willing to transition from conventional to natural farming practices. The success of the scheme in these states could serve as a model for expansion to other parts of the country.
Promotion of On-Farm Practices
One of the key components of BPKP is the promotion of on-farm biomass recycling. This involves using crop residues and other organic matter to create compost, which can then be used to enrich the soil. Additionally, the scheme encourages the use of cow dung and urine formulations, which are traditional sources of nutrients for crops. These practices not only provide a cost-effective source of fertilizer but also help in reducing waste.
Periodic soil aeration is another practice promoted under BPKP. Aeration helps improve soil structure, allowing roots to penetrate deeper and access more nutrients and water. This can lead to healthier crops that are more resilient to drought and disease.
Benefits to Smallholder Farmers
Smallholder farmers, who often operate on tight budgets, stand to benefit significantly from the implementation of BPKP. The reduction in the need for purchased inputs relieves them of a considerable financial burden. Furthermore, by adopting these natural farming practices, they can improve the fertility of their land and the quality of their produce, which can lead to better market prices and improved livelihoods.
Enhancing Credit Accessibility
Another important aspect of BPKP is its potential in enhancing credit accessibility for smallholder farmers. By reducing input costs and increasing productivity naturally, farmers may be able to improve their creditworthiness. Financial institutions might be more inclined to extend credit to farmers who engage in sustainable and low-risk farming practices, thus further supporting the growth of natural farming in India.
In summary, the Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Padhati is a forward-thinking initiative that seeks to empower Indian farmers by reviving traditional agricultural practices. Through its various components, it aims to promote sustainability, reduce costs, and support the economic well-being of farmers, particularly smallholders. As the scheme progresses, it has the potential to transform the agricultural landscape of India by making it more eco-friendly and economically viable.