India has been fostering natural farming since 2019-20 through Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP), a part of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY). Due to its success in select states, BPKP is elevated to a mission mode as the “National Mission on Natural Farming” (NMNF). NMNF’s expansion involves engaging Community Based Organizations, particularly women’s Self Help Groups (SHGs) and their federations, such as Krishi Sakhis and Pashu Sakhis. These organizations are envisioned to operate Bio-input Resource Centers and serve as extended branches for mission implementation.
Addressing gender gaps in agricultural extension services, the “Agriculture Technology Management Agency” (ATMA) scheme allocates provisions for women in farming. It promotes women’s food security groups, establishing Farm Women’s Food Security Groups (FSGs) in each block annually, providing training and Rs. 10,000/group for inputs. FSGs also serve as “Model Food Security Hubs” by establishing various initiatives like kitchen gardens, poultry, animal husbandry, and more.
ATMA guidelines ensure at least 30% of beneficiaries are women farmers, with a similar allocation of resources for women’s programs. Committees at various levels, such as Block Farmer Advisory, State Farmers Advisory, and District Farmers Advisory, mandate one-third representation of women.
The Gender Coordinator under ATMA ensures benefits reach women farmers, collects gender-disaggregated data, documents best practices, and addresses women’s agricultural needs. Additionally, women participate in innovative activities under ATMA and receive higher subsidies (44%) under the Agri. Clinics and Agri. Business Centres Scheme.
The National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) conducted numerous awareness programs for Gram Pradhans on Natural Farming, with a focus on women participants. A web page and repository have been created, housing natural farming information from various sources, including material in 22 regional languages for the benefit of women farmers.
This information was shared by Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, in a written Lok Sabha reply.