Kerala Initiates Organic Farming Mission, Aims to Convert 5,000 Hectares of Land to Organic Farms in Five Years

In a major effort to encourage organic farming throughout the state, the Kerala government has set out to convert 5,000 hectares of land into flourishing organic farms within the next five years. This initiative, officially inaugurated on November 8, 2023, by Agriculture Minister P. Prasad, represents a substantial step toward achieving sustainable agriculture and climate-smart farming practices.

The Organic Farming Mission builds upon the Kerala Government's Organic Farming Policy, introduced in 2010. In line with the Left Democratic Front's (LDF) election pledge to promote organic farming, this mission marks a tangible step toward establishing organic farming practices as a cornerstone of the state's agricultural landscape.

To achieve its ambitious goal, the mission will designate a minimum of 10% of land on farms operated by the State Agriculture Department for organic farming. Additionally, the mission emphasizes long-term commitment from participating farmers, requiring them to adhere to organic farming practices for at least five years.

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Recognizing the importance of quality inputs, the mission will ensure farmers have access to high-quality seeds and production equipment/materials through small-scale units, Krishikoottam collectives, Karshika Karma Sena, Kudumbasree, Krishisree Centre, and Agro Service Centres.

The Organic Farming Mission, coupled with the Poshaka Samriddhi Mission launched in September 2023 aimed at boosting millet and vegetable production, demonstrates Kerala's commitment to sustainable and economically viable agricultural practices.

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The mission will extend its reach to every Assembly constituency in Kerala, collaborating closely with Krishikoottam collectives and farmer producer organizations (FPOs) to formulate organic farming schemes tailored to local needs. To oversee the mission's activities effectively, a governing council led by the Agriculture Minister and an executive committee comprising representatives from government departments and farm sector institutions will be established.

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