Natural Farming Revolutionizes Agriculture in Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley
In Himachal Pradesh’s pursuit to liberate the agricultural sector from harmful chemicals, the Agriculture Department is actively promoting natural farming. The impact of this sustainable approach has reached the cold desert of Spiti Valley in Lahaul Spiti district, where farmers have embraced natural farming practices. This year, Spiti Valley farmers achieved a significant milestone by selling chemical-free pea crops worth Rs 12 crore, with individual farmers reaping profits ranging from Rs 4 to 5 lakh. The shift to natural farming has not only increased market prices for peas, reaching Rs 70 to Rs 90 per kg, but also elevated overall agricultural productivity.
Initiated under the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (Atma) Project, the campaign to encourage natural farming in Spiti Valley began in 2020. A total of 314 farmers registered and underwent training in natural farming methods, including the preparation of Jeevamrit and other organic fertilizers. Beyond peas, farmers are now cultivating cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, radish, and spinach through natural farming techniques.
The produce from natural farming has gained traction among operators of hotels, restaurants, and homestays, with tourists visiting Spiti Valley showing a growing demand for these chemical-free products. Encouraged by the success, Spiti Valley farmers are also venturing into apple production using the same eco-friendly technology. Krishi Vigyan Kendra Tabo has played a role in training 15 gardeners in Spiti Valley on apple cultivation through natural farming.
The Block Technical Manager of the Atma Project, highlighted the increasing awareness among Spiti Valley farmers about the benefits of natural farming. With 314 farmers actively participating, producing and selling vegetables through natural farming, financial gains are evident. Many Farmers like emphasize their abandonment of pesticides and chemicals in favor of natural farming techniques, using cow urine and other organic products to cultivate and sell vegetables in the market. The success in Spiti Valley serves as a promising example for the broader adoption of natural farming practices in the region.
