Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): Haryana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana announced on Wednesday that the provincial government is taking decisive steps to promote natural and organic farming on a large scale. Under this new initiative, farmers who transition to these sustainable methods will be eligible for an annual grant of 10,000 Rupees per acre for a period of five years. This financial support is designed to boost agricultural income while protecting soil fertility by reducing the heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. To ensure the credibility and quality of the produce, farmers are required to obtain certification from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) before they can access the grant.
In a move to create a stable foundation for the sector, the government has designated approximately 800 acres of land owned by the Department of Agriculture for organic cultivation. This land will be leased specifically to farmers who commit to practicing natural or organic farming for a minimum of ten years. This long-term approach is intended to provide a permanent base for chemical-free agriculture in the region. To assist farmers with the often-daunting certification process, the Haryana State Seed Certification Agency will be developed as the primary authorized body for organic verification within the province. This local institutional support aims to save farmers time and reduce the costs associated with hiring external agencies.
The Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board will also play a crucial role by developing modern laboratories and dedicated spaces in various district mandis, including those in Panchkula, Karnal, Gurugram, and Hisar. These facilities will allow for the immediate testing and verification of organic products, ensuring that they meet the necessary standards for both national and international markets. Minister Rana emphasized that these efforts are not just about improving farmer livelihoods but are also a vital step toward environmental conservation and providing healthy food options to increasingly health-conscious consumers. By integrating testing and marketing infrastructure, Haryana hopes to establish its organic produce as a trusted brand globally.
