ORGANIC FARMING

Organic farming is an agricultural system that produces food using

natural processes, avoiding synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, genetically
modified organisms (GMOs), and growth hormones. It relies on
methods such as crop rotation, composting, and beneficial insect
populations to build healthy soil, enhance biodiversity, and manage
pests, aiming for sustainable food production that is in harmony with
nature.

.HISTORY

the traditional and sustainable farming practices he encountered there

and advocated for their adoption in the West. Such practices were
further promoted by various advocates—such as J.I. Rodale and his son
Robert, in the 1940s and onward, published Organic Gardening and
Farming magazine and a number of texts on organic farming. The
demand for organic food was stimulated in the 1960s by the publication
of Silent Spring, by Rachel Carson, which documented the extent of
environmental damage caused by insecticides.

Organic food sales increased steadily from the late 20th century. Greater
environmental awareness, coupled with concerns over the health impacts of
pesticide residues and consumption of genetically modified (GMO) crops,
fostered the growth of the organic sector
●​ 19th century:
The use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides began to gain popularity in
th
the mid-19 century. However, several pioneers, such as Sir Albert
Howard, recognized the importance of organic farming and began
experimenting with composting and other natural methods.
th
●​ 20 century:
In which year did the organic farming movement started?
 th
The modern organic farming movement began in the early 20
century, with the introduction of biodynamic farming by Austrian
philosopher Rudolf Steiner. In the 1930s, J.J. Rodale founded the
Rodale Institute and began promoting the benefits of organic farming in
the United States.
In the 1960s, the organic farming movement began. The organic
farming movement gained momentum as a response to concerns about
environmental and health impacts of Industrial agriculture.
st
●​ 21 century:
Today, organic farming is a growing movement, with increasing demand
for organic products around the world. Many countries have established
certification programs to regulate and promote organic farming
practices.
Overall, the organic farming history is a story of farmers and activists
recognizing the importance of working with nature to produce healthy
and sustainable food.
Sir Albert Howard:

●​ While the concept of organic farming has deep roots in India, the
British botanist Sir Albert Howard is considered the father of modern
organic agriculture because his research in India inspired his work
promoting traditional, sustainable practices and composting. Within
India, Subhash Palekar is recognized for promoting Zero Budget
Natural Farming and training farmers in natural methods without
chemicals.
●​ Influence from India:​
Howard was an agricultural researcher in India and was significantly
inspired by the traditional and sustainable farming practices he
observed there.
●​ Key Contributions:​
He advocated for these traditional methods, emphasizing soil health,
composting, and the principles of integrated farming systems. His work
laid the foundation for modern organic agriculture globally.
 ●​ The Indore Method:​
He developed the Indore Method of composting, which was influential
in the early development of organic farming in the West.

Subhash Palekar (for India):

●​ Focus on Natural Farming:​

Palekar is an Indian agriculturist who champions Zero Budget Natural
Farming (ZBNF) in India.
●​ Promoter of Chemical-Free Farming:​
His methods are based on using natural inputs and minimizing external
inputs like chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
●​ Farmer Education:​
He has trained thousands of farmers in India and internationally,
helping to popularize natural farming approaches

Advantages of Organic Farming

Here’s the list of remarkable benefits of organic farming in India:

1. Nutrient-dense and Flavorful Produce

Organic produce, fruits, and vegetables are grown on healthy soil; hence, they are
capable of realizing their full taste. These crops do not require synthetic fertilizers and
are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other antioxidants that nature has to offer.

2. No Harmful Chemicals Usage

Industrial farming today utilizes a combination of synthetic chemicals, including
pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, that may end up in the food you consume and the
water you drink. Organic farming does not use such dangerous chemicals. Hence, you,
your family, and the environment are shielded from health complications and pollution.
 3. Environmental Preservation
Organic farming is all about maintaining a natural system of agriculture that does not
harm the soil or the environment as a whole. Organic farms do not use synthetic input
and pesticides and thus create a sanctuary for pollinators, beneficial insects, and wildlife
that enhance ecosystem services and improve ecosystem health.

4. Soil Conservation

A healthy soil base is of effectual importance for an improved and sustainable farming
method, and organic farming is all about the soil. Such practices cover the use of
crops, crop rotation, and natural manure, which are among the various types of
agricultural practices in India, all serve to enrich the soil, conserve it from washing away,
and serve future generations’ fertility needs.

5. Water Conservation
Beyond that, organic farming practices are less likely to demand much water and, at the
same time, provide special attention to the management of small concave features that
control water infiltration. Also, since there is no use of synthetic fertilizers and
pesticides, water pollution is avoided, hence protecting water resources.

6. Climate-Friendly Practices
Organic farming cultivation has been found to be efficient in that it does not harm the
natural environment in the way that usual methods do. Synthetic fertilizers are products
of highly energetic processes; organic farming prohibits their use and advocates for
such as crop rotation and minimum turning of the soilhence; , it aids in climate change
management.

7. Ethical and Humane Treatment of Animals

Before animals and their produce can be classified as organic, there are a few
conditions regarding animal welfare that must be fulfilled. Organic farmers highly
consider the welfare of animals as they provide the animals with adequate space to
move and be healthy without hormonal enhancement or antibiotics.i

8. Supports Local Communities

In this respect, organic farming can become one of the means through which local
economic and social systems are strengthened. By choosing to consume organically
farmed fruits, vegetables, or other farm produce directly from farmers or through CSA
shares, one becomes a stakeholder and a customer with regard to the food basket

. Disadvantages of Organic Farming

Organic farming comes with certain challenges and disadvantages; here’s the list:

1. Lower Yields
The very first disadvantage of organic farming is that farming yields less than
conventional agriculture. This, however, is important since although organic farmers
who do not use Artificial fertilizers and pesticides may have some problems with pest
and disease control, weeds, and soil fertility, they will be able to offer less yield per unit
area.

2. Higher Production Costs

Organic farming practices are normally more difficult and, hence, are expensive to carry
out. Some of the factors that could result in a variation in the operation cost include the
timing operations, intensity, and direction of operations, the type of operations such as
manual weeding and natural pest control, the frequency of the operations, and the type
of inputs such as the organic fertilizer.
3. Certification and Compliance Costs
Farmers wishing to produce something that they will label as organic and sell in the
market need to undergo certification and meet some conditions that the state sets. This
is because the approach can be expensive and time-consuming, thus placing an extra
cost factor on organic farming ventures.

4. Vulnerability to Pests and Diseases

As for organic farms, synthetic pesticides are not allowed to be used in the rearing of
the farms. Hence, the farms could be easily affected by pests and plant diseases.
Farmers generally apply natural pest control, which is not effective in severe outbreaks
and leads to crop losses.

5. Limited Availability and Higher Prices

The demand for organic products is much higher than the actual supply due to certain
barriers, and therefore, the prices for these products are also high. This can reduce the
availability of organic foods to those who might be financially strained due to the higher
prices.

6. Longer Transition Period

It is not easy for a regular farmer to start organic farming. Farmers need to bear the
costs of organic agriculture, and the crop can only be sold as organic once the farmers
have been in the process for several years. Consequently, this transition period could
be financially difficult for farmers.

7. Skilled Labor Requirements

Organic farming techniques are more challenging to master than traditional farming
because they are still developing their methods in many states. The farmers need to
know how to control pests using natural mechanisms, how to execute crop rotation, and
so on, which some may not need to learn.
8. Climate and Weather Challenges
Organic farming usually enjoys good weather and climate; hence, it is very sensitive to
weather conditions. Weather conditions like drought, flood, or change in climate have
negative effects on the production and productivity of organic crops.

techniques of organic farming in india

Soil management and fertilization

●​ Composting and vermicomposting: Farmers convert organic waste, such as crop

residues, kitchen scraps, and cow dung, into nutrient-rich compost and
vermicompost (using earthworms). This enriches the soil, improves its structure,
and promotes microbial activity.
●​ Green manure: This technique involves growing specific plants like dhaincha or
sunhemp and plowing them back into the soil. This adds organic matter and
essential nutrients, which naturally increases soil fertility.
●​ Biofertilizers and microbial inoculants: Farmers use living microorganisms, such
as Rhizobium (for legumes) and Azotobacter (for cereals), to supply nutrients like
nitrogen and phosphorus to the crops. Mycorrhizal fungi are also used to help
plants absorb nutrients.
●​ Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF): Popularized in India, ZBNF uses
farm-sourced materials to create microbial cultures like Jeevamrutha (made from
cow dung, cow urine, and pulses) and seed treatments like Bijamrutha.

Crop and field management

 ●​ Crop rotation and polyculture: This method involves planting different types of
crops in the same area sequentially or simultaneously. This prevents the
depletion of specific soil nutrients, breaks disease cycles, and controls pests.
Intercropping (growing multiple crops together) is also common.
●​ Conservation agriculture: Practices like minimal or zero tillage and mulching with
crop residues are used to prevent soil erosion, conserve moisture, and improve
soil health, especially in dry regions.
●​ Integrated farming systems: Many Indian farmers integrate livestock, such as
cows, goats, and poultry, into their farms. The animals provide manure for
fertilizer, and they can also help control weeds, creating a closed-loop system.
●​ Agroforestry: The practice of growing trees and shrubs alongside crops provides
shade, improves soil structure, and offers additional products like fruits or nuts.
●​ Seed saving and heirloom varieties: Many organic farmers focus on preserving
traditional, indigenous seed varieties, which are better adapted to local conditions
and help maintain genetic diversity.

Pest and weed management

●​ Natural pest control: Organic farmers use neem-based pesticides, biopesticides,

and other botanical extracts to deter pests. They also encourage beneficial
insects, such as ladybugs and spiders, that prey on harmful pests.
●​ Biological pest control: This technique involves using living organisms to control
pest populations. Pheromone traps and trap crops are also used to lure pests
away from cash crops.
●​ Manual weeding and mulching: Instead of chemical herbicides, weeds are
managed through manual removal, mulching (covering the soil with organic
matter to suppress weed growth), and cover crops that outcompete weeds.
Traditional knowledge and government support

●​ Indigenous knowledge: Organic farming in India often incorporates traditional and

indigenous knowledge passed down through generations, which guides
decisions on planting, harvesting, and pest control.
●​ Government initiatives: Programs like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
(PKVY) and the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North East
Regions (MOVCD-NER) promote organic farming by providing support for farmer
clusters, input procurement, certification, and marketing.
●​ Certification: For commercial organic production, farmers in India can get
certified under the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), a
framework provided by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export
Development Authority (APEDA).

economic benefits of organic farming

The economic benefits of organic farming arise from

reduced input costs, premium prices for organic goods, and higher resilience to market

fluctuations. These advantages can strengthen local economies and create a more

sustainable and profitable agricultural system over the long term.

Benefits for farmers

●​ Reduced costs for inputs: Organic farming relies on natural fertilizers, such as
compost and manure, and uses biological methods for pest control. This allows
 farmers to significantly cut expenses on expensive synthetic fertilizers,
pesticides, and herbicides, leading to higher profit margins.
●​ Access to premium pricing: As consumer awareness of health and environmental
benefits grows, demand for organic products has risen. Consumers are willing to
pay a premium of 20%–40% or more for certified organic produce, allowing
organic farmers to generate higher income compared to conventional farmers.
●​ Increased soil health and productivity: Organic practices like crop rotation and
composting improve soil structure, fertility, and water retention over time. This
leads to more stable and sustained yields, reducing the need for costly soil
treatments and building long-term agricultural productivity.
●​ Diversification and reduced risk: Many organic farmers practice crop rotation and
raise a variety of crops or livestock. This diversification helps improve soil health
while creating multiple income streams, which mitigates financial risk associated
with market volatility or pest outbreaks affecting a single crop.
●​ Government support: Many governments offer financial incentives, subsidies,
and training programs to encourage the transition to organic farming. These
programs can help offset initial costs associated with certification and adopting
new farming methods.
●​ Improved market access: The growing global demand for organic products allows
farmers to access both new domestic markets and lucrative export opportunities.
Certification acts as a gateway to these markets, which often have high
standards and offer better returns.

Benefits for local economies

●​ Boosts local economic development: Studies have shown that organic farming
can boost local economies. In "organic hotspots," or counties with high
 concentrations of organic agricultural activity, poverty rates drop and median
household incomes increase.
●​ Increases employment: Organic farming is often more labor-intensive than
conventional farming, as it requires manual labor for tasks like weeding and pest
control. This leads to increased employment opportunities in rural communities
where jobs might otherwise be limited.
●​ Strengthens community food systems: Organic farming often involves a
community-oriented approach that emphasizes local markets and food systems.
This helps strengthen local economies by promoting local food sourcing and
preserving traditional agricultural practices.
●​ Reduced health costs for farmers: Organic farmers and their families have
reduced exposure to potentially harmful chemical pesticides, which may lead to
improved health outcomes and lower healthcare costs.

social benefits of organic farming

Organic farming provides social benefits by

creating jobs, improving farm workers' health, strengthening local food systems, and
empowering communities through traditional knowledge. As an alternative to industrial
agriculture, which can harm communities with chemical pollution and economic
pressures, organic farming promotes social sustainability by focusing on the well-being
of people and local economies.

Improved health and safety

 ●​ Reduces exposure to harmful chemicals: Organic farming prohibits synthetic
pesticides and fertilizers, which minimizes health hazards for farmers, their
families, and farmworkers. This can lead to improved health outcomes and lower
healthcare costs associated with chemical exposure.
●​ Enhances food quality: Organic produce is often richer in nutrients and free of
pesticide residues, contributing to better overall health for consumers. This is
especially important for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and
children.

Economic opportunities and rural development

●​ Creates more jobs: Because organic farming is often more labor-intensive than
conventional agriculture, it generates more employment opportunities,
particularly in rural areas. This provides stable livelihoods for more people,
especially in regions with limited job options.
●​ Increases farmer income: The growing consumer demand for organic products
allows farmers to access niche markets and command premium prices. This
provides better economic returns, making farming a more viable and aspirational
career, particularly for small-scale farmers.
●​ Empowers women and marginalized groups: Community-based organic farming
initiatives have shown to empower women and other marginalized groups by
providing them with opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.
●​ Reduces input costs: Organic farmers avoid the high costs of synthetic fertilizers
and pesticides by relying on natural, on-farm inputs like compost and green
manure

Stronger communities and local food systems

 ●​ Builds stronger local economies: Organic farms often operate within local food
systems, selling their products directly to consumers through farmers' markets
and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. This helps keep money
circulating within the local economy and strengthens community connections.
●​ Preserves traditional farming knowledge: Many organic practices are rooted in
traditional agricultural methods passed down through generations. The organic
movement helps preserve this cultural heritage and knowledge, fostering a sense
of shared purpose and cultural identity within farming communities.
●​ Enhances resilience to crises: Stronger, community-oriented local food systems
are more resilient to global crises, such as pandemics, that can disrupt larger
supply chains.

Potential for greater equity

●​ Fosters fair relationships: The principles of organic agriculture emphasize

fairness, which includes equitable relationships in production, distribution, and
trade.
●​ Promotes ethical consumerism: The rise of organic food has fostered ethical
consumerism, as consumers consciously support food produced in an
environmentally safe and socially responsible manner.

political benefits of organic farming

Organic farming offers significant political benefits by

increasing food security, empowering rural communities, and reducing dependence on
multinational corporations. These outcomes enhance political stability, provide
governments with opportunities for strategic policy and trade, and strengthen local
economies.

Domestic political benefits

Enhances food security and sovereignty

●​ Reduced dependence: By relying on on-farm inputs and natural processes,

organic farming reduces a nation's dependence on foreign supplies of synthetic
fertilizers and pesticides. This protects food production from geopolitical supply
chain disruptions.
●​ Climate resilience: Organic practices like biodiversity and improved soil health
make food systems more resilient to climate-related shocks such as droughts,
and extreme weather. A stable food supply helps prevent social unrest and mass
migration caused by shortages

Empowers farmers and rural communities

●​ Strengthens local food systems: Organic farming often supports local food
systems and markets, such as farmers' markets and community-supported
agriculture (CSA). This reduces dependency on long, global supply chains,
increasing community self-reliance and stability.
●​ Creates jobs: Organic farming can be more labor-intensive than conventional
methods, which generates more employment opportunities, particularly in rural
 areas. This provides a political advantage by stimulating rural economies and
increasing farmer incomes.
●​ Increases community participation: Organic agriculture encourages the formation
of farmer groups and cooperatives for certification and marketing, which
strengthens community organization. It can also increase women's participation
in leadership roles and collective activities

International political benefits

Improves global market access

●​ Increases exports: With growing global demand for organic products, certified
organic status allows a country's farmers to access lucrative international
markets. This creates new trade opportunities and boosts the agricultural
economy.
●​ Strengthens trade relations: Harmonized organic standards and mutual
recognition agreements can strengthen trade relations with key partners.
Compliance with international standards also enhances a country's reputation as
a producer of high-quality, safe food.

Positions a country as an environmental leader

●​ Contributes to climate goals: By promoting carbon-sequestering farming

practices, a government can position itself as a leader in combating climate
change on the world stage. This strengthens diplomatic ties with other nations
focused on environmental action.
●​ Enhances reputation: The development of a strong organic sector can enhance a
 ●​ country's international reputation for prioritizing public health, sustainability, and
small-farmer livelihoods. This can improve its standing in international forums
and aid negotiations on other issues.

Leverages alternative development models

●​ Offers a democratic alternative: The organic movement and its focus on

community empowerment offer a democratic, bottom-up model for agricultural
development, which can serve as a political contrast to top-down,
corporate-driven food systems.
●​ Strengthens negotiating power: A strong domestic organic sector reduces
dependence on multinational chemical and seed corporations, which can

improve a government's leverage in international trade negotiations and food

policy discussions.

Environmental impact

●​ Improved Soil Health:​

Organic methods like crop rotation, cover cropping, and agroforestry

improve soil fertility, increase organic matter, and enhance water

retention, while also reducing soil erosion.

●​ Water Conservation:​

By eliminating synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, organic farming

reduces chemical runoff into rivers and groundwater, protecting water

bodies from pollution.

 ●​ Enhanced Biodiversity:​

Organic farms support natural ecosystems, providing habitats for

beneficial insects, pollinators, and wildlife, which helps to maintain

ecological balance and genetic diversity.

●​ Climate Change Mitigation:​

Organic farming practices help increase carbon sequestration in the soil

and reduce the reliance on fossil fuels for synthetic fertilizer production,

thereby lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

●​ Health Impacts

●​ Reduced Chemical Exposure:​

Organic food has lower levels of pesticide residues and is produced

without synthetic additives, hormones, or antibiotics, reducing the

health risks associated with synthetic chemicals.

●​ Safer Working Conditions:​

The absence of harmful chemicals creates safer working environments

for farmers and farm workers.

Socio-Economic Impacts

●​ Increased Food Security:​

By building soil health and resilience, organic farming contributes to a

more sustainable and adaptable agricultural system to combat climate

change and secure food supply.

 ●​ Economic Opportunities:​

The growing consumer demand for organic products presents

opportunities for farmers to diversify their income and enter new

markets.

●​ Job Creation:​

Organic farming is often more labor-intensive, creating more

employment opportunities in rural communities.

organic farming present scenario in india,

As of 2024, organic farming in India is experiencing rapid growth driven by increasing

consumer health awareness and strong government support, despite challenges like

certification costs and market access. India holds the unique distinction of having the

highest number of organic farmers in the world, though the area under organic

cultivation still represents a small fraction of the country's total agricultural land

Key statistics

●​ Certified area: As of March 2024, India has 1.76 million hectares of certified
organic farmland, with another 3.63 million hectares transitioning to organic
cultivation.
●​ Total area: Including cultivated land and wild harvest collection areas, the total
area under organic certification was 101.72 lakh hectares as of March 31, 2023.
 ●​ Top states: While Sikkim is the first fully organic state, Madhya Pradesh,
Maharashtra, and Rajasthan lead in the total area under certified organic
farming.
●​ Export market: The sector is a major exporter of organic products, with exports
projected to reach ₹20,000 crore within the next three years. Major export items
include oilseeds, cereals, pulses, and tea

Growth drivers

●​ Consumer demand: Rising health consciousness among Indian consumers is a

significant driver, as they seek chemical-free food options.
●​ Government initiatives: Several government schemes have been instrumental in
promoting organic farming.
○​ Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Supports organic farming
through a cluster approach and offers financial aid and certification.
○​ Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North East Regions
(MOVCD-NER): Focuses on developing certified organic production in the
northeastern states.
○​ National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP): Provides the
institutional framework for organic certification, with standards recognized
by international bodies like the EU and USA.
●​ Environmental sustainability: As awareness of the harmful effects of conventional
farming grows, organic practices are gaining traction for their benefits to soil
health, biodiversity, and water conservation.

Major challenges
 ●​ High costs: The initial costs of training, certification, and organic inputs can be
prohibitive for many farmers.
●​ Market access: Despite growing demand, many small-scale farmers lack access
to established market channels, which limits profitability.
●​ Low initial yields: During the transition period to organic farming, yields often
decrease temporarily, creating financial challenges for farmers.
●​ Certification barriers: The process for obtaining and maintaining organic
certification can be complex and expensive, particularly for small farmers.

future scenario of organic farming in india

The future of organic farming in India is marked by a strong push towards sustainability,
driven by rising consumer demand for healthier food, supportive government policies,
and increasing technological integration. However, significant challenges related to
scaling up, farmer education, and market linkages must be addressed for this transition
to be successful.

The future growth of organic farming

Market expansion

●​ Rising domestic demand: India's organic food market is projected to reach $10.8
billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 20%. This
growth is fueled by an increasingly health-conscious urban population willing to
pay premium prices.
 ●​ Export opportunities: India, already a major exporter of organic products, is set to
expand its global footprint. International demand for organic goods like spices,
tea, coffee, and cotton continues to grow, providing lucrative opportunities for
farmers who can meet compliance and traceability standards.
●​ Expanded product variety: Consumer interest is pushing the market beyond
traditional fruits and vegetables into organic processed foods, millets, pulses, and
beverages. This diversification offers new revenue streams for farmers and
businesses.

Technological integration

●​ Precision organic farming: Technology such as satellite monitoring, AI-based

advisory services, and remote sensing will help farmers optimize organic
practices, manage resources efficiently, and improve yields.
●​ Improved traceability and trust: Blockchain technology and digital certification
workflows will enhance transparency in the supply chain. This builds consumer
confidence by allowing them to trace products from farm to store, which is crucial
for premium pricing and market credibility.
●​ New organic inputs: Innovations in bio-inputs, such as high-quality biofertilizers,
biopesticides, and advanced formulations like biochar, will help improve soil
health and increase yields to compete with conventional farming

Government support

●​ New financial initiatives: Schemes like the "Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi
Yojana" introduced in 2025 demonstrate the government's long-term commitment
to boosting organic farming and supporting farmers.
 ●​ Strengthened schemes: Ongoing programs like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas
Yojana (PKVY) and the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North
Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) provide financial aid, training, and marketing
support to farmers, especially in cluster-based projects.
●​ Digital infrastructure: The government's AgriStack initiative and Jaivik Kheti portal
are creating digital registries of farmers and providing online market access,
streamlining the process of transitioning to and sustaining organic practices

Climate resilience

●​ Natural adaptation: Organic farming methods like cover cropping, composting,

and agroforestry can increase soil organic matter, improve water retention, and
enhance biodiversity. This makes farms more resilient to erratic rainfall, droughts,
and other climate stressors.
●​ Mitigation of climate change: By sequestering carbon in the soil and reducing
dependence on energy-intensive synthetic fertilizers, organic farming systems
contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with India's climate goals.

Challenges to overcome

●​
●​ Yield drop during transition: Farmers transitioning from conventional methods
often experience an initial drop in yields, posing a financial risk that discourages
adoption.
●​ Higher input and labor costs: Organic inputs can be more expensive, and
practices like weeding are more labor-intensive. This increases production costs,
a significant hurdle for small and marginal farmers.
 ●​ Certification complexity: The cost and complex paperwork involved in third-party
organic certification are prohibitive for many small-scale farmers. While the
Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) is an alternative, more simplified systems
are needed.
●​ Market access and infrastructure: Weak supply chains, inadequate storage, and
poor market linkages hinder organic farmers from realizing fair prices for their
produce. The market remains fragmented, favoring large farms and exporters.
●​ Lack of farmer awareness: Despite government efforts, many farmers,
particularly in rural areas, lack sufficient knowledge of organic farming
techniques, pest management, and the long-term benefits.
●​ Threats from climate change: While organic farming offers climate resilience,
climate change also poses direct threats, including new pest patterns and
disruptions in quality and supply, which could affect export

future scenario of organic farming in Indian

markets

Market expansion

●​ Rising domestic demand: India's organic food market is projected to reach $10.8
billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 20%. This
growth is fueled by an increasingly health-conscious urban population willing to
pay premium prices.
●​ Export opportunities: India, already a major exporter of organic products, is set to
expand its global footprint. International demand for organic goods like spices,
 tea, coffee, and cotton continues to grow, providing lucrative opportunities for
farmers who can meet compliance and traceability standards.
●​ Expanded product variety: Consumer interest is pushing the market beyond
traditional fruits and vegetables into organic processed foods, millets, pulses, and
beverages. This diversification offers new revenue streams for farmers and
businesses.

Technological integration

●​ Precision organic farming: Technology such as satellite monitoring, AI-based

advisory services, and remote sensing will help farmers optimize organic
practices, manage resources efficiently, and improve yields.
●​ Improved traceability and trust: Blockchain technology and digital certification
workflows will enhance transparency in the supply chain. This builds consumer
confidence by allowing them to trace products from farm to store, which is crucial
for premium pricing and market credibility.
●​ New organic inputs: Innovations in bio-inputs, such as high-quality biofertilizers,
biopesticides, and advanced formulations like biochar, will help improve soil
health and increase yields to compete with conventional farming

Government support

●​ New financial initiatives: Schemes like the "Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi
Yojana" introduced in 2025 demonstrate the government's long-term commitment
to boosting organic farming and supporting farmers.
●​ Strengthened schemes: Ongoing programs like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas
Yojana (PKVY) and the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North
 Eastern Region (MOVCDNER) provide financial aid, training, and marketing
support to farmers, especially in cluster-based projects.
●​ Digital infrastructure: The government's AgriStack initiative and Jaivik Kheti portal
are creating digital registries of farmers and providing online market access,
streamlining the process of transitioning to and sustaining organic practices.

Climate resilience

●​ Natural adaptation: Organic farming methods like cover cropping, composting,

and agroforestry can increase soil organic matter, improve water retention, and
enhance biodiversity. This makes farms more resilient to erratic rainfall, droughts,
and other climate stressors.
●​ Mitigation of climate change: By sequestering carbon in the soil and reducing
dependence on energy-intensive synthetic fertilizers, organic farming systems
contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with India's climate goals.

Challenges to overcome

●​ Yield drop during transition: Farmers transitioning from conventional methods

often experience an initial drop in yields, posing a financial risk that discourages
adoption.
●​ Higher input and labor costs: Organic inputs can be more expensive, and
practices like weeding are more labor-intensive. This increases production costs,
a significant hurdle for small and marginal farmers.
●​ Certification complexity: The cost and complex paperwork involved in third-party
organic certification are prohibitive for many small-scale farmers. While the
 Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) is an alternative, more simplified systems
are needed.
●​ Market access and infrastructure: Weak supply chains, inadequate storage, and
poor market linkages hinder organic farmers from realizing fair prices for their
produce. The market remains fragmented, favoringlarge farms and exporters.
●​ Lack of farmer awareness: Despite government efforts, many farmers,
particularly in rural areas, lack sufficient knowledge of organic farming
techniques, pest management, and the long-term benefits.
●​ Threats from climate change: While organic farming offers climate resilience,
climate change also poses direct threats, including new pest patterns and
disruptions in quality and supply, which could affect export markets

In , organic farming plays a pivotal role in achieving agricultural sustainability, offering

substantial environmental and socio-economic benefits. Environmentally, it significantly

reduces the use of synthetic chemicals, leading to improved soil health, enhanced

biodiversity, and reduced water pollution