Sri Vijaya Puram, July 3: The Department of Agriculture, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, has expanded the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) by launching orientation and awareness programmes for farmers in newly identified farming clusters at Karmatang and Webi villages under Rampur Gram Panchayat in Mayabunder Block. The initiative aims to encourage wider adoption of sustainable, climate-resilient and chemical-free farming practices while strengthening the transition towards environmentally responsible agriculture across the islands.
The awareness programmes were organised to equip farmers with practical knowledge and technical understanding of natural farming methods before implementation of the mission in the newly sanctioned clusters. Around 250 farmers, including Krishi Sakhis, participated in the programmes, reflecting growing interest in sustainable agricultural practices among the farming community.
The National Mission on Natural Farming is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Government of India implemented through the Department of Agriculture to promote eco-friendly cultivation by encouraging the use of locally available natural resources. The mission seeks to reduce dependence on chemical inputs while improving soil health, lowering cultivation costs and enhancing long-term agricultural sustainability.
Officials stated that during 2025-26, the mission covered 100 hectares across two clusters located at Ferrargunj in South Andaman and Adazig in North and Middle Andaman, benefiting around 250 farmers. Following the progress recorded under the initial phase, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has sanctioned an additional 100 hectares under the programme for 2026-27. This expansion has resulted in the identification of two new clusters at Karmatang and Webi in North and Middle Andaman.
Addressing the participants, Director of Agriculture Debabrata Basantia outlined the objectives of the National Mission on Natural Farming and highlighted its potential to promote climate-resilient, low-input and sustainable agricultural practices. He encouraged farmers to adopt natural farming techniques by making effective use of locally available resources to restore soil fertility, reduce production expenses and improve long-term farm profitability.
The programmes also featured technical sessions conducted by subject experts and progressive farmers. Participants received practical demonstrations on preparing bio-inputs, mulching techniques, moisture conservation methods and sustainable crop management practices aimed at improving productivity without dependence on synthetic chemicals.
Farmers were also informed about the formation of Natural Farming clusters, enrolment procedures, the role of Community Resource Persons known as Krishi Sakhis, establishment of Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs) and the simplified certification process for naturally cultivated produce. Interactive sessions enabled farmers to seek clarification on natural farming practices, institutional support mechanisms and market linkages available under the mission.
Officials from the Department of Agriculture, scientists from ICAR-KVK Nimbudera, Subject Matter Specialists and progressive farmers also attended the programme. The Department said the expansion of the National Mission on Natural Farming is intended to strengthen sustainable agricultural practices while encouraging greater farmer participation in environmentally responsible farming systems across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
