Andhra Pradesh Minister Advocates for Zero-Budget Natural Farming to Support Farmers
Lokesh urges farmers to adopt zero-budget natural farming
Image: The Times Of India
During a visit to Kadapa district, Nara Lokesh, Andhra Pradesh's HRD and IT minister, urged farmers to adopt zero-budget natural farming (ZBNF) practices. He highlighted the success of local farmers, who have created a self-sustaining ecosystem, and emphasized the government's commitment to promote organic farming and improve irrigation infrastructure.
- 01Nara Lokesh visited Penikalapadu village and interacted with farmer Munagala Dwarakanatha Reddy, who practices natural farming on 17 acres.
- 02The Reddy family integrates fruit crops, poultry, and aquaculture, generating a monthly income and eliminating the need for synthetic fertilizers.
- 03They earn between ₹3 lakh and ₹3.5 lakh (approximately $3,600 to $4,200 USD) annually from mangoes alone.
- 04Lokesh noted that chemical farming has degraded soil fertility and increased farmer debt due to high input costs.
- 05The state government is focusing on expanding natural farming, millet cultivation, and improving irrigation in the Rayalaseema region.
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Nara Lokesh, the HRD and IT minister of Andhra Pradesh, emphasized the importance of adopting zero-budget natural farming (ZBNF) during his recent visit to Kadapa district. He visited an integrated natural farming estate in Penikalapadu village, where he met progressive farmer Munagala Dwarakanatha Reddy, who has successfully practiced natural farming on 17 acres for five years. Reddy's family has created a self-sustaining ecosystem by integrating diverse fruit crops, poultry, and aquaculture, which has led to a monthly income without relying on synthetic fertilizers. Lokesh highlighted that the family earns between ₹3 lakh and ₹3.5 lakh (approximately $3,600 to $4,200 USD) annually from their mango harvest. He pointed out that the excessive use of chemical inputs has degraded soil fertility and increased farmers' debt. The government is committed to promoting natural farming and millet cultivation while improving irrigation infrastructure in the arid Rayalaseema region, aiming to build a robust organic farming network.
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The promotion of zero-budget natural farming could lead to improved soil health and financial stability for local farmers, reducing reliance on costly chemical inputs.
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