PM Modi Champions Natural Farming at South India Summit: India's Vision for Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Conservation

India stands at a pivotal moment in its agricultural journey, where ancient wisdom meets modern necessity. At the South India Natural Farming Summit held in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, on 19 November 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated a compelling vision that positions natural farming not merely as an alternative agricultural practice but as India's indigenous contribution to global food security and environmental sustainability. His address underscored a fundamental truth that resonates across generations: natural farming is deeply rooted in Indian traditions and perfectly suited to the country's diverse ecological landscape.

The summit in Coimbatore, a city renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit and agricultural innovation, provided the perfect backdrop for this transformative dialogue. PM Modi's presence at the event signalled the government's unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices that honour traditional knowledge whilst embracing scientific validation. His interaction with farmers, agricultural experts, and young entrepreneurs demonstrated a hands-on approach to understanding the challenges and opportunities within the natural farming sector.

Understanding Natural Farming: India's Indigenous Agricultural Wisdom

Natural farming represents a paradigm shift from chemical-intensive agriculture to a system that works harmoniously with nature's rhythms. Unlike conventional farming methods that rely heavily on synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, natural farming employs traditional techniques that have sustained Indian agriculture for millennia. These methods focus on maintaining soil health, promoting biodiversity, and creating self-sustaining agricultural ecosystems that require minimal external inputs.

PM Modi emphasised during his address that natural farming is not an imported concept but rather an indigenous practice born from India's rich agricultural traditions. This distinction is crucial, as it positions India not as a follower in the global sustainable agriculture movement but as a knowledge leader with centuries of accumulated wisdom. The traditional practices of crop rotation, intercropping, use of organic manures, and biological pest control form the foundation of natural farming, techniques that modern science is now validating through rigorous research.

The principles of natural farming align perfectly with India's diverse agro-climatic zones, from the fertile plains of Punjab to the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu. This adaptability makes natural farming particularly relevant for Indian farmers who operate across varied geographical and climatic conditions. The system respects local ecosystems, preserves indigenous seed varieties, and maintains the delicate balance between agricultural productivity and environmental conservation.

Coimbatore: A Hub of Innovation and Agricultural Excellence

Describing Coimbatore as a land of culture, compassion, and creativity, PM Modi highlighted the city's unique position as a powerhouse of South India's entrepreneurial strength. This characterisation is well-deserved, as Coimbatore has long been recognised for its industrial prowess, educational institutions, and progressive agricultural practices. The city's selection as the venue for the South India Natural Farming Summit reflects its strategic importance in India's agricultural transformation.

Coimbatore's agricultural landscape is characterised by diverse farming practices, from traditional paddy cultivation to modern horticultural ventures. The region's farmers have demonstrated remarkable adaptability, embracing new technologies whilst maintaining respect for traditional knowledge. This balance between innovation and tradition makes Coimbatore an ideal testing ground for scaling natural farming practices across South India and beyond.

The city's robust network of agricultural universities, research institutions, and farmer collectives creates an ecosystem conducive to knowledge sharing and practical implementation of sustainable farming techniques. During his visit, PM Modi interacted with local farmers who have successfully transitioned to natural farming, witnessing firsthand the tangible benefits of reduced input costs, improved soil health, and enhanced crop resilience. These success stories from Coimbatore serve as powerful examples for farmers across the country contemplating the shift to natural farming.

Natural Farming: Vision and Necessity for 21st Century Agriculture

PM Modi's assertion that natural farming is both India's vision and necessity encapsulates the urgency of transitioning to sustainable agricultural practices. The vision aspect relates to India's aspiration to become the global hub of natural farming, sharing its traditional knowledge with the world and leading the movement towards chemical-free agriculture. The necessity aspect stems from the pressing need to address soil degradation, water scarcity, declining farm incomes, and environmental concerns associated with intensive chemical farming.

The expansion of natural farming addresses critical challenges facing 21st-century agriculture. Decades of chemical-intensive farming have left many Indian soils depleted of organic matter and beneficial microorganisms, reducing their natural fertility and water-holding capacity. Natural farming practices restore soil health by increasing organic carbon content, improving soil structure, and promoting the proliferation of beneficial soil organisms. This restoration is essential not just for agricultural productivity but also for environmental health and climate change mitigation.

Furthermore, natural farming offers a pathway to preserve India's rich biodiversity for future generations. The monoculture practices associated with conventional agriculture have led to the loss of numerous indigenous crop varieties, reducing agricultural resilience and nutritional diversity. Natural farming encourages the cultivation of diverse crops, preservation of traditional seed varieties, and maintenance of complex agricultural ecosystems that support pollinators, beneficial insects, and other wildlife. This approach ensures that the biological wealth inherited from previous generations can be passed on to those who follow.

The Youth Perspective: Agriculture as Modern Scalable Opportunity

One of the most significant shifts in Indian agriculture is the changing perception among youth, who increasingly view farming as a modern, scalable opportunity rather than a traditional occupation of last resort. PM Modi highlighted this transformation, noting that it would provide tremendous strength to the nation's rural economy. This attitudinal change is crucial for the long-term sustainability of Indian agriculture and the revitalisation of rural areas.

Young farmers bring fresh perspectives, technological savvy, and entrepreneurial energy to agriculture. They are more willing to experiment with innovative practices, adopt digital tools for farm management, and explore value-addition opportunities that increase farm incomes. The natural farming movement has particularly attracted educated youth who appreciate its scientific basis, environmental benefits, and potential for creating differentiated, premium agricultural products.

The government's support for agricultural entrepreneurship, including training programmes, financial assistance, and market linkages, has created an enabling environment for youth participation in farming. Natural farming, with its lower input costs and potential for organic certification, offers young farmers an economically viable and environmentally responsible entry point into agriculture. Their enthusiasm and innovation are essential for scaling natural farming practices and integrating them with modern technologies such as precision agriculture, digital marketing, and sustainable supply chains.

Combining Natural Farming with Shree Anna Cultivation

PM Modi emphasised the synergistic relationship between natural farming and the cultivation of Shree Anna, or millets, highlighting how this combination significantly contributes to protecting Mother Earth. Millets, once staple crops in many parts of India, fell out of favour during the Green Revolution as farmers shifted to rice and wheat cultivation. However, these ancient grains are experiencing a renaissance due to their exceptional nutritional value, climate resilience, and minimal water requirements.

Natural farming methods are particularly well-suited for millet cultivation. These hardy crops thrive without intensive irrigation or chemical inputs, making them ideal for rainfed agriculture and marginal lands. The deep root systems of many millet varieties improve soil structure, prevent erosion, and enhance water infiltration. Additionally, millets require shorter growing seasons and demonstrate remarkable tolerance to pests and diseases, reducing the need for external interventions.

The nutritional benefits of millets complement the health advantages of chemical-free natural farming. Rich in dietary fibre, minerals, and micronutrients, millets offer superior nutrition compared to rice and wheat whilst supporting sustainable agricultural practices. The government's promotion of millets through initiatives like the International Year of Millets has created market opportunities for farmers who combine millet cultivation with natural farming techniques. This combination addresses multiple objectives simultaneously: improving farmer incomes, enhancing nutritional security, promoting environmental sustainability, and reviving traditional crops adapted to local conditions.

One Acre, One Season: A Practical Approach to Transition

PM Modi's call for farmers to try adopting natural farming on one acre of land for just one season represents a pragmatic approach to encouraging widespread adoption. This recommendation acknowledges the risks and uncertainties farmers face when contemplating significant changes to their farming practices. By suggesting a limited trial, the Prime Minister reduces the perceived risk whilst allowing farmers to experience the benefits of natural farming firsthand.

This gradual approach respects farmers' expertise and decision-making autonomy. Farmers can compare the performance of natural farming plots with their conventional fields, evaluating factors such as input costs, labour requirements, yield outcomes, and soil health improvements. Many farmers who have undertaken such trials report positive experiences, noting reduced expenses on seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides alongside comparable or even superior yields once soil health improves.

The one acre, one season strategy also facilitates knowledge building and skill development. Natural farming requires different management approaches compared to conventional agriculture, including careful observation of natural processes, timing of interventions based on biological cycles, and integration of diverse farming elements. A limited trial allows farmers to develop these skills gradually without overwhelming their existing operations. Success in small-scale trials often leads to expanded adoption in subsequent seasons, creating a organic growth pattern for natural farming across Indian agriculture.

Integrating Traditional Knowledge with Scientific Research

The most powerful aspect of India's natural farming movement is the synergistic combination of farmers' traditional knowledge, scientific research, and government support. PM Modi emphasised that when these three elements join hands, they lead to farmer prosperity and environmental well-being. This integration represents a departure from top-down agricultural development approaches that often dismissed traditional practices as unscientific or outdated.

Scientific research institutions across India are now rigorously studying traditional farming practices, validating their effectiveness, and understanding the biological mechanisms that make them work. Studies on practices such as Jeevamrutha (microbial culture), Bijamrutha (seed treatment), and mulching have demonstrated their positive impacts on soil microbiology, nutrient availability, and plant health. This scientific validation lends credibility to traditional practices whilst also identifying opportunities for refinement and optimisation.

Government support manifests through various channels, including training programmes for farmers, certification systems for organic products, market development initiatives, and financial incentives for transitioning to natural farming. The Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) scheme and the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) provide institutional frameworks and resources for scaling natural farming. Research funding for natural farming studies, establishment of demonstration farms, and integration of natural farming concepts into agricultural education curricula further strengthen the ecosystem supporting this transition.

Building India as the Global Natural Farming Hub

PM Modi's vision of India becoming the global hub of natural farming reflects ambitious yet achievable aspirations rooted in the country's agricultural heritage and contemporary capabilities. India possesses several advantages that position it favourably for this role, including vast agricultural landscapes, diverse agro-climatic zones, rich traditional knowledge, growing scientific research capacity, and the world's second-largest population of farmers.

Establishing India as a global natural farming hub involves multiple dimensions. Firstly, it requires demonstrating successful large-scale implementation within the country, proving that natural farming can meet food security needs whilst delivering environmental and economic benefits. Secondly, it involves developing India as a knowledge centre that can train international farmers, agricultural professionals, and policymakers in natural farming techniques adapted to various contexts. Thirdly, it encompasses creating market mechanisms that reward farmers for producing chemical-free agricultural products and connect them with domestic and international consumers willing to pay premium prices for sustainably grown food.

The global demand for organic and natural products is growing rapidly, driven by increasing consumer awareness about health, environmental sustainability, and ethical production practices. India's natural farming movement can tap into these markets whilst also influencing global agricultural policies and practices. By sharing its traditional knowledge and contemporary experiences, India can contribute to worldwide efforts to develop more sustainable, resilient, and equitable food systems. This leadership role aligns with India's broader aspirations for global influence based on wisdom, sustainability, and inclusive development.

Transforming Natural Farming into a Science-Backed Movement

For natural farming to achieve its full potential, it must evolve from a collection of traditional practices into a comprehensive, science-backed movement supported by research, data, and evidence. PM Modi's call to transform natural farming into a science-backed movement recognises this imperative. Scientific validation addresses scepticism, provides evidence for policy decisions, enables continuous improvement, and facilitates knowledge transfer across different contexts.

Research priorities for the natural farming movement include long-term studies comparing productivity, profitability, and environmental impacts of natural versus conventional farming systems across diverse agro-climatic zones. Understanding the soil microbiome changes associated with natural farming practices, optimising input formulations for different crop requirements, and developing natural pest and disease management strategies suited to various agricultural contexts are crucial research areas.

Technology integration offers opportunities to enhance natural farming practices. Digital platforms can connect farmers with experts, facilitate knowledge sharing, and provide decision support based on local conditions and crop requirements. Remote sensing and soil testing technologies can help monitor soil health improvements over time, providing tangible evidence of natural farming benefits. Mobile applications can guide farmers through the transition process, offering season-specific advice and connecting them with input suppliers and markets for their produce.

Educational institutions play a vital role in this transformation by incorporating natural farming into agricultural curricula, training the next generation of agricultural professionals, and conducting community outreach programmes. When agricultural graduates understand both conventional and natural farming systems, they can provide informed guidance to farmers and contribute to evidence-based policy development. Research institutions, agricultural universities, and farmer training centres must collaborate to create a robust knowledge ecosystem supporting the natural farming movement.

Conclusion: A Sustainable Future Rooted in Traditional Wisdom

PM Modi's address at the South India Natural Farming Summit articulated a compelling vision for Indian agriculture that honours traditional wisdom whilst embracing modern scientific understanding and technological capabilities. His message resonated with the fundamental truth that sustainable agriculture is not about rejecting progress but about redefining it to include environmental health, farmer welfare, and intergenerational equity alongside productivity.

The path forward requires sustained commitment from multiple stakeholders. Farmers must be willing to experiment with natural farming techniques, sharing their experiences and learning from peers. Scientists must continue researching traditional practices, validating their effectiveness, and identifying opportunities for improvement. Policymakers must create supportive frameworks that reduce transition risks, provide market access, and reward environmental stewardship. Consumers must recognise the value of naturally grown products and support farmers making the transition through their purchasing choices.

India's natural farming movement represents more than agricultural reform; it embodies a philosophical shift towards harmonious coexistence with nature, recognition of traditional knowledge systems, and commitment to leaving a healthy planet for future generations. As PM Modi emphasised, natural farming is perfectly suited to India's environment and born from its traditions. By embracing this indigenous wisdom whilst enhancing it with contemporary science and technology, India can indeed become the global hub of natural farming, leading the world towards more sustainable, resilient, and equitable food systems.

The journey from Coimbatore, where culture, compassion, and creativity converge, to a nationwide natural farming movement represents India's commitment to agricultural sustainability. With government support, scientific validation, farmer enthusiasm, and youth participation, the vision of widespread natural farming adoption is within reach. The call to try natural farming on one acre for one season may seem modest, but it represents the first step in a transformative journey towards agricultural practices that nourish both people and planet, ensuring prosperity today without compromising the possibilities of tomorrow.

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