It is perturbing that despite fully equipped with all that is required and having suitable conditions for organic farming, why the vast farm lands in Jammu and Kashmir are still relying on the conventional ways of cultivating crops with extensive use of inorganic fertilizers and acerbic pesticides, which without any iota of doubt are harmful for the consumers and allegedly forms the basis for many diseases which have become prevalent with the advent of so-called modern ways of farming.
The disproportionate use of synthetic chemicals and pesticides in agriculture is ruining the soils and thereby killing the organic materials that they contain. Furthermore, the practice decreases crop sustainability and increases input costs. The favourable environmental conditions such as suitable temperature and easy availability of water make Jammu and Kashmir an apt place for organic farming. With proper implementation and development of organic farming, this agriculture system has all the potential to become a lucrative and sustainable means of livelihood in Jammu and Kashmir.
The scope of organic farming in Jammu and Kashmir is promising, given the region's agro-climatic conditions and growing global demand for organic products. With its fertile land and diverse crops, adopting organic practices can enhance sustainability, protect the environment, and offer economic benefits to local farmers. The unique geographical features of Jammu and Kashmir provide an opportunity to establish a niche market for high-quality organic produce, contributing to both environmental conservation and the economic well-being of the region.
The economy of J&K is heavily dependent on the agriculture sector as it contributes the lion's share of the revenue to J&K. The agri-sector is the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir's economy as it also engages over 50 percent of the population, directly or indirectly. Furthermore, Jammu and Kashmir is blessed with varied agro-climatic zones, cultivating several varieties of agricultural and horticultural crops, some of which are unique.
Unfortunately, the Environment Sustainability Index of Jammu and Kashmir is deteriorating very fast due to various reasons including extensive utilization of fertilizers and other agrochemicals that have led to the worsening of soil health. It is utmost necessary for the UT to embark on the path of organic farming to rectify agricultural practices. No doubt that there is a lot of pressure on farmers over the adoption of organic farming but how many have given the nod is yet to be seen as consumption of fertilizers and pesticides in large proportions is still in vogue and until J&K goes the Mizoram way, things will remain odd and awry.
It is pertinent to mention that Mizoram state made history by becoming the first in the country to legislate for turning its entire agricultural produce organic. It passed the Mizoram Organic Farming Act, 2004 on July 12, 2004.
It is imperative that J&K should also take cue for becoming a healthy farming state in the country by following Mizoram and educating the tiller community about the advantages of becoming organic.
The region's rich biodiversity and conducive climate provides an ideal canvas for cultivating organic crops. This shift will not only foster soil health and minimize chemical impact but also position Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for premium organic produce, potentially boosting the economy. By championing organic farming, the region can forge a sustainable and responsible agricultural future.
