Bhopal: More than 3,000 farmers in Singrauli have adopted natural farming, putting the district at the centre of Madhya Pradesh’s efforts to combine traditional agriculture with technology, crop diversification and value addition.
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav highlighted the development while virtually addressing the Balram Krishi Mahotsav organised in Singrauli. He said collective efforts would be made to develop Singrauli as a leading agricultural district and a major centre for natural farming alongside its identity as the state’s energy capital.
The Chief Minister also interacted with progressive farmers through video conference and discussed their experiences with natural farming, Shree Anna production and turmeric cultivation.
Natural Farming Gains Ground in Singrauli
During the interaction, farmers shared their experiences of using natural farming practices, including organic manure. They told the Chief Minister that these methods were proving more beneficial than conventional farming in their experience.
Natural farming is also receiving wider policy attention nationally. Under the National Mission on Natural Farming, the Centre has been promoting chemical-free, livestock-integrated and diversified farming practices, with an emphasis on soil health, lower input costs and climate resilience.
For Singrauli, the growing adoption of natural farming could create opportunities beyond conventional crop production. The district has potential in horticulture, food processing and allied activities, giving farmers more avenues to diversify their income sources.
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Focus on Technology and Higher Farm Income
Dr. Yadav said the state government is working to increase both agricultural production and farmers’ income through technology and innovation.
He said irrigation capacity in Madhya Pradesh would be expanded to 10 million hectares, while food processing and value addition would receive greater attention. The One District-One Product initiative will also be used to promote local production.
The government also plans to strengthen agriculture-linked activities such as animal husbandry and dairy, making them a more integral part of the rural economy.
Another focus is creating a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs. According to the Chief Minister, 1 lakh farmers, youth and women associated with agriculture will receive specialised training to develop skills and entrepreneurship opportunities in the sector.
Singrauli’s Shree Anna and Traditional Crops
Singrauli lies at the confluence of the Son and Gopad rivers and has emerged as an important producer of Shree Anna.
Kodo and Sama are among the major crops grown in the region. The Chief Minister also referred to the state government’s decision to procure Kodo-Kutki at Minimum Support Price, which followed initiatives taken by farmers from Singrauli and Dindori.
The focus on millets fits into the broader push towards crop diversification. Recent national agricultural programmes have also promoted diversification through pulses, oilseeds, horticulture and natural farming.
For farmers, diversification can mean moving beyond dependence on a single crop and exploring combinations of cereals, horticulture, livestock, fisheries and processing activities.
Turmeric, Horticulture and New Crops
During the virtual interaction, Dr. Yadav specifically asked farmers about turmeric cultivation along with natural farming and Shree Anna production.
The discussion reflected a wider shift in Singrauli, where farmers are increasingly experimenting with new crops and technologies while continuing traditional farming practices.
The district also has considerable potential in horticulture and food processing. Several units have already been established, including flour mills, rice mills, oil mills, dairy product units, bakeries and other food-processing facilities.
Such facilities can help connect farm production with local processing and value addition, allowing agricultural products to move beyond primary production.
Daytime Power Supply to Support Farming
The state government has also completed feeder separation in the area to facilitate 10 hours of daytime electricity supply to farmers.
Reliable daytime power can support irrigation and other agricultural operations, particularly for farmers dependent on electric pumps and irrigation infrastructure.
The Chief Minister urged farmers to make greater use of this support by adopting crop diversification and exploring horticulture, natural farming, animal husbandry and fisheries.
From Farming to Agricultural Entrepreneurship
The emerging agricultural model in Singrauli is therefore not limited to increasing crop output. The state’s approach combines farming with processing, livestock, dairy, fisheries, horticulture and entrepreneurship.
The emphasis on technology also follows a broader shift in agricultural policy towards scientific and climate-resilient practices. Government programmes increasingly focus on efficient water use, soil health, integrated farming and modern agricultural technologies.
For Singrauli, the growing adoption of natural farming could provide a foundation for building local agricultural value chains, particularly if farmers gain better access to training, processing facilities and markets.
With more than 3,000 farmers already adopting natural farming, the district is beginning to add a new dimension to its agricultural identity. The challenge ahead will be to expand these practices while connecting production with processing, markets and sustainable income opportunities.
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