Organic Farming: A Sustainable Strategy for Farmers and Natural Resource Conservation

Abstract

The Green Revolution in Haryana, initiated in the 1960s, reached its peak during the 1990s. However, in recent decades, it has begun to reveal the limitations and unsustainable aspects of intensive agricultural practices. The excessive dependence on synthetic inputs such as chemical fertilizers, pesticides and high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds has not only degraded soil health and fertility but has also posed serious risks to human and environmental well-being. Growing awareness of these adverse impacts has prompted policymakers, environmentalists and researchers to search for sustainable alternatives. Among these, organic farming has emerged as a viable and holistic solution that minimizes or eliminates the use of synthetic inputs while relying on natural soil-enriching methods such as crop rotation, composting, animal manure, crop residues and bio-fertilizers to restore ecological balance and soil productivity.From an economic standpoint, organic farming offers significant benefits to farmers. The global and domestic demand for organic produce has risen steadily, creating lucrative market opportunities.

Haryana, owing to its proximity to the National Capital Region (NCR), holds great potential to capitalize on this growing demand, thereby enhancing farm incomes. Moreover, the reduced reliance on expensive chemical inputs fertilizers, pesticides and synthetic growth enhancers can substantially lower production costs, easing the financial burden on farmers. Thus, both in terms of economic returns and environmental sustainability, organic farming represents a promising alternative for the agricultural community. The present study aims to examine the existing agricultural practices in Haryana, assess the policy framework promoting organic farming and evaluate the current market conditions influencing its adoption in the state. By analyzing these dimensions, the paper seeks to highlight organic farming as a sustainable pathway for agricultural growth, environmental conservation and improved farmer livelihoods in Haryana.