Himachal Pradesh: First State to Introduce MSP for Natural Farming

Himachal Pradesh has taken a significant step in natural farming by being the first state in India to offer a minimum support price for products cultivated through these practices, according to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. During a meeting with four scientists from the French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment (INRAE), Sukhu highlighted that wheat is procured at Rs 40 per kg and maize at Rs 30 per kg. Additionally, cow milk is purchased at Rs 45 per litre, and buffalo milk at Rs 55 per litre.

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The delegation, led by Prof Allison Marie Loconto, Deputy Director of Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire Sciences Innovations Societes (LISIS), visited Himachal Pradesh to study advancements in natural farming. Other members included researchers Prof Mireille Matt, Dr Evelyne Lhoste, and Dr Renee Van Dis. They are on a three-week mission to YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, and other locations in the state as part of the European Commission-funded ACROPICS project.

Natural Farming Certification

Sukhu emphasised the importance of product certification in natural farming. He mentioned that the Certified Evaluation Tool for Agriculture Resource Analysis-Natural Farming (CETARA) certification system has been introduced in the state. This system aims to ensure fair prices for farmers by certifying their produce. The chief minister also stated that Himachal Pradesh aims to become a leading state in natural farming within the next five to six years.

Cluster-Based Approach

The Him Unnati scheme is being implemented with a cluster-based approach to produce and certify chemical-free produce. The plan includes establishing 2,600 agricultural groups involving approximately 50,000 farmers. This initiative aims to boost natural farming practices and ensure that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce.

The visiting INRAE scientists praised the state government's efforts in promoting natural farming and lauded the CETARA certification system. They expressed interest in exploring the possibility of adopting this certification system in other countries. Their visit is part of the ACROPICS project, which aims to advance co-innovation in agroecological crop protection.

The delegation's mission includes studying various locations in Himachal Pradesh to understand better the state's advancements in natural farming. Their visit aims to gather insights that could be applied internationally to promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Himachal Pradesh's pioneering efforts in natural farming are expected to set a precedent for other states in India. The state's initiatives aim to ensure fair prices for farmers while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.