Gujarat: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel distributed ₹6.97 crore to 35,829 farmers across Gujarat who have adopted natural farming practices. The financial assistance of ₹2,000 per acre for the Kharif season was transferred directly into farmers’ bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
The support was provided under the National Mission on Natural Farming, covering all 33 districts of the state. According to the Gujarat Chief Minister’s Office, the initiative aims to expand the reach of chemical-free agriculture and encourage more farmers to shift toward sustainable farming methods.
The funds were transferred with a single click during a ceremony held in Gandhinagar in the presence of Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani and Minister of State for Agriculture Ramesh Katara.
Cluster-Based Model to Expand Natural Farming
To systematically promote natural farming, the Gujarat government has adopted a cluster-based approach.
- 1,015 clusters comprising three Gram Panchayats each have been formed under the mission.
- Farmers in these clusters receive training, technical guidance, and financial incentives.
Additionally, the government plans to establish 3,875 non-mission clusters in the remaining Gram Panchayats. Once implemented, the total number of clusters promoting natural farming will rise to approximately 4,890.
To provide hands-on experience, 7,100 model farms have also been set up across the state.
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‘Back to Basics’ Approach for Sustainable Agriculture
Addressing the gathering, CM Bhupendra Patel emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to return “back to basics” for ensuring healthy living. He urged farmers to adopt natural farming in mission mode and promote the widespread use of naturally grown produce.
The Chief Minister noted that by adopting natural agriculture, farmers are safeguarding the health and future of coming generations.
He also acknowledged the efforts of Governor Acharya Devvrat, who has been actively promoting cow-based natural farming and encouraging farmers through grassroots outreach across villages.
₹392 Crore Budget Provision for Natural Farming
The Gujarat government has made significant budgetary provisions to strengthen the natural farming ecosystem.
For the current financial year, ₹392 crore has been allocated for various activities related to natural farming, including training, awareness campaigns, and infrastructure support.
Boost to Chemical-Free Farming in Gujarat
With financial incentives, cluster expansion, and strong policy backing, Gujarat is accelerating its transition toward chemical-free and sustainable agriculture. The initiative is expected to improve soil health, reduce input costs for farmers, and promote environmentally friendly farming practices across the state.
