Shift Towards Sustainable Agriculture: Prof Chandel
2 min read
October 7, 2025
Kisan Goshti on natural farming held at Vasni
Vasni, Sirmaur: A Kisan Goshti on natural farming was organised at Village Vasni in the Pachhad development block of District Sirmaur. The programme was jointly organised by the State Agriculture Department and ATMA, bringing together progressive farmers, agricultural officials and scientists.
Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel, Vice-Chancellor of Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF), Nauni (Solan) graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address, Prof. Chandel called for a collective effort to reduce dependence on chemical inputs in agriculture and to adopt the concept of ‘One Health’. He highlighted that natural farming not only lowers the cost of cultivation but also safeguards the health of producers, consumers, and the environment.
Citing examples from across the state, Prof. Chandel shared success stories of farmers who have improved the quality and marketability of their produce through natural farming. He also emphasized that this methodology has played a significant role in empowering rural women by enhancing their participation in agricultural decision-making. He encouraged farmers to visit nearby farms practicing natural farming to gain firsthand experience of this eco-friendly approach. He also highlighted the pioneering research work done by the university in natural farming and how it is collaborating with several reputed national and international research organisations to generate scientific data on this methodology and increase its adoptability.
Dr. Sahib Singh, PD ATMA, briefed the participants about the initiatives being implemented by the department in the district. He informed that out of nearly 60,000 farmers in Sirmaur, over 19,000 have already adopted natural farming, either partially or fully. He also outlined the state government’s efforts to promote natural farming through MSP support and market linkages for products grown under this system. Dr. Raj Kumar, Deputy Director of Agriculture, termed agriculture as the backbone of India’s rural economy. He elaborated on several government schemes designed to benefit farmers, including crop insurance, Kisan Credit Cards, and infrastructure development support initiatives.
Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Programme Coordinator, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Sirmaur, Dhaulakuan, highlighted the KVK’s efforts in promoting location-specific crops and supporting farmers through training and demonstrations. Om Prakash Sharma, BFAC Pachhad member, appreciated the Agriculture Department’s ongoing efforts to expand the area under natural farming and to organize regular training programmes for farmers. An exhibition of natural farming products and inputs was also displayed during the event.
The event saw participation from local panchayat representatives, including Pradhan Sanjeev Tomar, officials from Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, KVK scientists, lock Technology Manager Vinod, Assistant Technology Managers and over 100 farmers including progressive farmers from the area.
