Assam To Promote Scientific Research In Natural Farming

According to Atul Bora, the Agriculture Minister of Assam, there are extensive regions in the north-eastern states, including Assam, where the use of various fertilizers, pesticides, and other synthetic chemicals has not yet been implemented.

Bora mentioned that in mountainous regions, particularly among tribal farmers, there has been a long-standing tradition of natural farming spanning several generations. To increase productivity, these farmers currently require only scientific techniques that are consistent with their traditional farming practices.

During a one-day workshop on 'National Mission on Natural Farming' hosted by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Assam in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare at Assam Administrative Staff College in Guwahati, Bora highlighted the adverse effects of climate change on the agricultural sector worldwide. The minister suggested that agricultural officials should prioritize the implementation of long-term agricultural production systems to prevent irreversible consequences on the agro-ecosystem.

Bora drew attention to the perilous impact of uncontrolled application of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in farming on human health. Consequently, Bora urged the Assam Agricultural University and other agricultural research institutions in the North Eastern region to equip farmers with appropriate technical knowledge on organic and natural farming methods.

The Minister of Agriculture has made a statement that natural farming could be a more lucrative option for the majority of farmers in the state, who are mostly considered marginal. This is because the cost of production associated with chemical-based farming systems is on the rise. In addition, the minister has requested experts to concentrate their efforts on creating a comprehensive, sustainable, and safe natural farming management system.

Sources familiar with the matter have revealed that state-owned banks are set to present a comprehensive plan mapping-out various business risks within the next two weeks. The plan will also include a strategy for communicating effectively in case of emergencies. Meanwhile, mutual funds are making concerted efforts to attract clients to invest in their debt schemes before the current tax benefits associated with these products expire on March 31.

The lenders of Reliance Capital, which is currently bankrupt, are worried about the amount they will be able to recover from the loans they have given. This is because the two bidders for the financial services company, Hinduja Group and Torrent Investments, are not willing to increase their offers, and as a result, the recovery amount may fall below the estimated liquidation value of 12,500-13,000 crore. This situation is causing concern among the bankers who are familiar with the matter.

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