The Gujarat government has decided to recognize the B.Sc. (Honours) Natural Farming degree from Gujarat Natural Farming Science University as equivalent to the B.Sc. (Honours) Agriculture degree provided by other agricultural universities in the state. This move aims to ensure equal academic acknowledgment and opportunities for students pursuing higher education in natural farming. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
Government spokesperson and Minister Jitu Vaghani, in a statement post the meeting, confirmed the approval of equivalence between the two undergraduate degree programs. The decision intends to promote natural farming and ensure that students graduating in this field receive the same academic recognition and prospects as those in traditional agriculture programs. Vaghani highlighted that the assessment for equivalence considered various aspects such as course structure, credit system, curriculum, practical training, and academic qualifications based on set standards.
The natural farming program, rooted in Indian natural farming practices and a “Back to Basics” ideology, emphasizes nature-based cultivation, indigenous knowledge systems, cow-based agricultural methods, and sustainable agriculture. Vaghani mentioned that natural farming aligns with the national movement endorsed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, positioning Gujarat as a leading state in embracing natural farming practices. The government expects this decision to boost students’ confidence and opportunities in the field of natural farming, promoting a scientific approach that aims to lower production costs for farmers while fostering environmental conservation and self-reliant agriculture.
