The Gujarat government recently transferred Rs 6.97 crore directly to the bank accounts of 35,829 farmers across 33 districts. This initiative aims to promote natural farming and encourage chemical-free agriculture in the state. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel oversaw the distribution of funds through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) at a ceremony in Gandhinagar, accompanied by Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani and Minister of State for Agriculture Rameshbhai Katara.
Under the National Mission on Natural Farming, farmers embracing natural farming receive Rs 2,000 per acre for both the Kharif and Rabi seasons. The recent disbursement specifically targeted newly enrolled farmers for the Kharif season. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for ‘Back to Basic’ living to enhance health and advance natural farming was highlighted by Chief Minister Patel during the event. He emphasized the importance of natural farming for future generations and overall well-being.
In his address, Chief Minister Patel stressed the urgency of adopting natural farming practices for improved health outcomes. He commended Governor Acharya Devvrat’s efforts in promoting cow-based natural farming and guiding farmers at the grassroots level. Agriculture Minister Vaghani mentioned the launch of the National Mission on Natural Farming by the Central government to encourage chemical-free cultivation using local resources. In Gujarat, over 1,000 clusters have been established under this mission to train and support interested farmers.
Moreover, Vaghani announced plans to create additional non-mission clusters in gram panchayats to further expand support for natural farming. The state has set up 7,100 model farms to provide practical exposure to farmers. A substantial budget allocation of Rs 392 crore has been earmarked this year for various natural farming activities in Gujarat.
