Port Blair, Sept 25: The unscientific and indiscriminate use of agrochemicals has affected the soil health adversely and brought down the fertility of soil and productivity of crops. In addition it has resulted in the over exploitation of soil leading to nutrient imbalance.
Due to the increased environmental awareness and health consciousness it is necessary to think about organic agriculture as an alternate way for sustainable agriculture with protection to environment and human health. It is essential that all the crops in the organic field follow an organic method of production.
Organic farming is a holistic system of farming which optimizes productivity in a sustainable manner through creation of interdependent agri-eco systems where annual crop plants (e.g. paddy), perennial trees (e.g. horticulture) and animals (including fishes) are integrated on a given field or property. This type of farming hinges on extensive use of naturally available resources, preferably on farm inputs to enhance soil fertility in contrast to chemical fertilizers. A major benefit of organic food is that it is free of contamination with health harming chemicals such as pesticides, fungicides and herbicides.
To promote the organic farming in this Union Territory, Department of Agriculture has already initiated various schemes under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, High Value Agriculture Development Agency and plan programme as well under all these schemes assistance is provided to the farmers of these islands for promoting organic farming.
For further details on organic farming integrated farmers may contact the respective Zonal Agriculture Offices or Kisan Call Centre No. 243434 on all working days.
