 The southern Indian state of Kerala has officially announced a new farming policy that aims to convert all agriculture in the state to organic methods over the next 10 years. In the first phase 30,000 hectares will be converted.
There is need for ensuring organic farming approach in all the watershed development areas and extend support. Facilitating the transition, the policy highlights the need to provide interest-free loans to small and marginal farmers.
The Kerala Agriculture University and other research institutions should develop suitable crop combinations and locally suitable technology through participatory research with the farmers. The policy calls for ensuring the availability of biomass in the organic farm itself, through programs such as crop rotation, tree crops, cover crops, leguminous crops and green manure.
Separate and decentralized storage facilities for farm produce have to be established to protect their organic integrity and help the farmers in certification processes. A state-led insurance scheme for small and marginal farmers may also be introduced.
(Source: www.thehindubusinessline.com) |
