Modern farming practices: Organic Farming and farm mechanization

Organic Farming

The agricultural procedures used in organic farming do not affect the environment, which is why it is sometimes referred to as ecological farming or biodynamic farming. Organic farming also works in harmony with nature. In a situation where excessive use of chemical-based fertilizers and pesticides has created concerns for eco-toxicity and health dangers, organic farming is seen as a potential option to chemical-based farming due to its eco-friendly nature. In organic agriculture, nutrient management is focused on agronomic methods including crop rotation, nutrient recycling utilizing organic material like crop wastes and farmyard manure, and soil fertility building with nitrogen. Chemical fertilizers are also used sparingly.

In organic agriculture, nutrient management is focused on agronomic methods including crop rotation, nutrient recycling utilizing organic material like crop wastes and farmyard manure, and soil fertility building with nitrogen. Chemical fertilizers are also used sparingly. Organic farming relies on the use of pest-resistant crops, crop rotation, an increase in predators for pest management that is natural, an increase in genetic diversity, wise use of water resources, and good animal husbandry to reduce pest populations.

Techniques used in Organic Farming

For organic farming, a variety of methods are used, some frequently and others infrequently. When it comes to the ethical treatment of animals, food quality, and soil health, biodynamic farming emphasizes biological processes (such as green manures, cover crops and composting).

Natural farming is the alternate strategy. Except for seed sowing, no water, pesticides, fertilizers, or herbicides are used. It is often referred to as farming that was started just by a Japanese farmer. Another farming method, known as "bio intensive," focuses on healthy soils, space conservation, and low energy input while maximizing yields and boosting sustainability. Perm culture, no-till farming, holistic management, etc. are some further methods.

Because there is an "additional cost," known as the "organic premium," that must be paid in addition to the "reference price," organic products are often more expensive than "conventional" agricultural products. Concerns about one's health and nutrition, superior flavor, worries about one's food safety, and environmental friendliness are a few of the main reasons why organic products are more expensive. The readiness of consumers to pay more indicates that they are willing to pay more for environmental quality and health.

However, the land, soil, and environment are not as nice when a farmer begins organic farming as they should be. The land and atmosphere become completely poison-free and healthy for growing healthy crops as a result of organic farming practices over time, and the farmer also gains experience with organic farming.

The results of organic farming are therefore equivalent to those of contemporary synthetic agriculture practices at the beginning of the nearly fifth year. If we evaluate the inputs attentively, we can see that organic farming is less expensive because no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides are used. However, because of its superior quality, it is sold for 3–4 times more than other products and generates 3–4 times more profit for farmers.

Farm Mechanization

The utilization of animal and human power for agriculturally related tasks has significantly decreased in India's agriculture industry. The fad has made room for a variety of agricultural implements. The majority of these are powered by fossil fuels. However, India's rate of agriculture mechanization is only between 40 and 45 percent, which is still low when compared to the United States (95%), Brazil (75%), and China (57 percent). Although the level of automation is lower than in other affluent nations, it has increased significantly during the past ten years. 

The degree of farm mechanization varies widely among regions in India. Due to the region's extremely productive terrain and a shrinking worker force, northern states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh have a high level of mechanization. The state governments in these states have also timely supported efforts to encourage farm mechanization.

Read more: https://tractornews.in/articles/best-farm-machinery-in-india-with-uses-and-benefits/