Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) achieved higher yield in Andhra Pradesh
According to a recent assessment of the state’s natural farming programme, Zero Budget Natural Farming in Andhra Pradesh has produced noticeably greater crop yields than organic or conventional (synthetic fertilisers and pesticides) farming.
- This study has highlighted significantly higher yield and unaffected availability of nutrients through ZBNF as compared to organic or conventional farming. Organic or conventional farming is based on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
- The Government of Andhra Pradesh is emphasizing on chemical free farming under the ‘Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming’ (APCNF) programme.
Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)
- It is a technique of natural farming. Chemicals are not used in this. There is no need to spend a lot of money or take loans for the purchase of inputs.
- It is a method based on 4 pillars. It is a method of chemical free agriculture based on traditional Indian practices.
- ZBNF reduces the cost of production to zero. This is because it makes use of the natural resources available in or around the farm.
- It was originally promoted by Subhash Palekar, an agricultural expert from Maharashtra.
- ZBNF was introduced in the Union Budget 2019-20.
Benefits of ZBNF:
- Compared to chemical agriculture, ZBNF requires very small amounts of water and electricity.
- It reduces the cost of cultivation by using locally available resources.
- It manages the nutrition, fertility, pests and seeds of the soil.
Four Pillars of Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)
- Jivamrita: Preparation of organic fertilizers and pesticides from locally available cow dung and cow urine.
- Mulching: Activities carried out to ensure a favorable micro-climate in the soil.
- Bijamrit: Seed treatment with cow dung and cow urine.
- Whapasa – moisture: The availability of air and water molecules in the soil is ensured.
Source – Down to Earth
