Introduction

Indian agriculture is increasingly focusing on sustainable, low-input and climate-resilient farming systems. Rising cultivation costs, declining soil health, excessive dependence on external agricultural inputs and concerns about environmental sustainability have increased interest in natural farming.

To promote this approach on a larger scale, the Government of India launched the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme.

The Union Cabinet approved the National Mission on Natural Farming on 25 November 2024, with a total financial outlay of ₹2,481 crore. The mission is designed to encourage farmers to progressively adopt natural farming practices, improve soil health, reduce dependence on externally purchased inputs and promote sustainable agriculture.

The NMNF builds upon the experience of the earlier Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Paddhati (BPKP) implemented under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY).

What is the National Mission on Natural Farming?

The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) is a Government of India initiative aimed at promoting nature-based, chemical-free and low-input farming systems.

Natural farming emphasizes the use of locally available resources, on-farm natural inputs, livestock integration, diversified cropping systems and practices based on local agro-ecological conditions.

According to the Government, natural farming is rooted in traditional agricultural knowledge while also incorporating scientifically supported approaches and location-specific technologies.

The mission focuses not simply on replacing one agricultural input with another, but on creating a farming ecosystem in which farmers can progressively reduce dependence on externally purchased inputs.

Key Highlights of NMNF

 

The initial mission design targeted 1 crore farmers, 7.5 lakh hectares and 15,000 clusters, along with 10,000 need-based Bio-Input Resource Centres. 

Why Was the National Mission on Natural Farming Introduced?

Agriculture faces several challenges, including increasing input costs, soil degradation, water stress and climate variability.

The NMNF aims to address some of these challenges by encouraging farming systems that:

• Reduce dependence on purchased agricultural inputs
• Improve soil health
• Promote biodiversity
• Encourage locally available farm resources
• Integrate livestock with agriculture
• Improve resilience to climate-related stresses
• Encourage sustainable agricultural practices
• Support production of naturally grown chemical-free produce

The Government specifically identifies soil health improvement, ecosystem restoration, input-cost reduction and climate resilience among the major goals of the mission.

Main Objectives of National Mission on Natural Farming

The NMNF has several important objectives.

1. Promote Sustainable Natural Farming

One of the primary objectives is to encourage farmers to adopt nature-based and sustainable farming systems.

Farmers are encouraged to use natural farming bio-inputs prepared using locally available resources wherever appropriate.

2. Reduce Input Costs

A major objective is to reduce farmers' dependency on externally purchased inputs.

Natural farming can utilize farm- and locally available resources for preparing certain bio-inputs, potentially reducing expenditure on purchased inputs.

However, actual savings can vary significantly depending on the crop, location, farm size, existing practices and availability of resources.

3. Improve Soil Health

Healthy soil is the foundation of sustainable agriculture.

Natural farming practices promoted under the mission are intended to support soil biological activity, organic matter management and overall soil health.

The government is also integrating soil-health-related training and awareness into the natural farming ecosystem.

4. Promote Livestock-Integrated Farming

The mission encourages livestock-integrated agriculture and animal husbandry models, with preference for locally adapted livestock breeds.

Livestock can play an important role in farm nutrient cycling and preparation of certain natural farming inputs.

5. Develop Location-Specific Farming Practices

There is no single natural farming package that is necessarily suitable for every crop, soil and climate.

Therefore, NMNF emphasizes learning from practicing natural farmers along with scientific institutions to develop and improve location-specific natural farming practices.

6. Strengthen Farmer Training and Extension

Natural farming is knowledge-intensive. Farmers need practical information about:

• Crop planning
• Soil management
• Natural inputs
• Pest management
• Disease management
• Water management
• Crop diversification
• Livestock integration
• Harvest and post-harvest management

The mission therefore emphasizes farmer training, field demonstrations and continuous handholding.

What Are the Main Components of NMNF?

The National Mission on Natural Farming is designed around a support ecosystem rather than only providing financial assistance.

1. Natural Farming Clusters

Farmers are organized into clusters to facilitate training, knowledge sharing, demonstrations and adoption of natural farming practices.

The initial mission target was 15,000 clusters covering 7.5 lakh hectares.

The latest government update indicates that implementation has expanded considerably. During FY 2025-26, 18,893 clusters covering 10.32 lakh hectares and involving 20.93 lakh farmers were formed under the mission.

2. Bio-Input Resource Centres

One of the important components of NMNF is the establishment of Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs).

These centres are intended to improve farmers' access to natural farming bio-inputs and related resources.

The mission initially targeted 10,000 need-based Bio-Input Resource Centres across the country.

Examples of natural farming inputs may include locally prepared formulations such as Jeevamrit and Beejamrit, depending on the recommended natural farming package and local practices.

3. Krishi Sakhis and Community Resource Persons

Farmers often need local, practical guidance rather than information only through written material.

NMNF therefore uses trained Krishi Sakhis/Community Resource Persons (CRPs) to support farmers at the field level.

According to a recent government update, 33,257 Krishi Sakhis/Community Resource Persons had been trained under the mission during FY 2025-26.

These field-level workers can help with awareness, training and adoption of natural farming practices.

4. Model Demonstration Farms

Demonstration farms are important because farmers can observe natural farming practices under real field conditions.

The NMNF approach includes development of Natural Farming Model Demonstration Farms where farmers can learn through practical experience.

This helps farmers understand how natural farming practices can be implemented in their own agro-climatic conditions.

5. Farmer Training

Training is a major part of the mission.

Farmers may receive information and practical training related to:

• Natural farming principles
• Preparation and use of natural farming inputs
• Soil health
• Crop diversification
• Pest and disease management
• Livestock integration
• Water management
• Farm-level resource recycling

The Government has also established training through Centers of Natural Farming (CoNF) and other institutions.

₹4,000 Incentive Under National Mission on Natural Farming

One of the most important questions among farmers is whether the government provides financial assistance for adopting natural farming.

Under NMNF, an output-based incentive of ₹4,000 per acre per year for two years is provided to farmers practicing natural farming, subject to the scheme's conditions.

The benefit is limited to one acre per farmer.

Maximum incentive calculation

If a farmer qualifies for the full incentive:

₹4,000 × 2 years = ₹8,000

Therefore, the maximum incentive under this component is ₹8,000 per farmer over two years, for up to one acre.

Importantly, this should not be interpreted as a general ₹4,000-per-acre subsidy available automatically to every farmer. Eligibility, enrollment, adoption and other scheme conditions apply.

Who Can Benefit From NMNF?

The mission is intended to encourage farmers to adopt natural farming practices through an organized support system.

Farmers participating through the mission's implementation structure may receive support such as:

• Natural farming training
• Field-level guidance
• Access to demonstrations
• Access to natural farming bio-input resources
• Support for adoption of natural farming
• Certification-related support
• Output-based incentive, subject to eligibility and scheme conditions

The exact enrollment and implementation process can vary by State/UT and local agriculture department arrangements.

Therefore, farmers should contact their local Agriculture Department, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), designated natural farming officials or other authorized implementing agencies for current enrollment information.

What Is Natural Farming?

Natural farming is an approach to agriculture that aims to work with natural ecological processes and reduce dependence on externally purchased agricultural inputs.

It generally emphasizes:

Local Resources

Farmers make greater use of resources available on or near the farm.

Soil Biology

Maintaining a biologically active and healthy soil ecosystem is an important principle.

Crop Diversity

Diversified cropping systems can support resilience and biodiversity.

Livestock Integration

Livestock can be integrated into farming systems for nutrient cycling and resource utilization.

On-Farm Inputs

Farmers may prepare certain natural farming inputs using locally available materials.

Ecological Pest Management

Natural farming encourages ecological approaches to crop protection rather than relying solely on external chemical inputs.

Natural Farming vs Conventional Farming

This comparison should not be interpreted to mean that conventional farming always damages soil or that natural farming always produces higher yields. Outcomes depend on management, crop, climate, soil and local conditions.

Natural Farming and Soil Health

Soil health is one of the central themes of the National Mission on Natural Farming.

Healthy soil contains a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, organic matter, minerals, water and air.

Good soil management can help farmers maintain:

• Nutrient cycling
• Soil structure
• Water-holding capacity
• Biological activity
• Root development
• Long-term productivity

The NMNF aims to promote farming systems that improve soil health while reducing excessive dependence on external inputs.

Natural Farming and Climate Resilience

Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of agricultural challenges such as:

• Irregular rainfall
• Heat stress
• Drought
• Flooding
• Soil degradation
• Pest outbreaks

Natural farming is being promoted as one component of India's broader effort toward climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture.

The government describes NMNF as a mission aimed at improving sustainability and climate resilience alongside soil health and input-cost reduction.

Natural Farming Certification System

An important development under NMNF is the introduction of a certification system for natural farming produce.

The Natural Farming Certification System (NFCS) was initiated as “Participatory Guarantee System (PGS)-INDIA NATURAL” from 2025-26.

The Government has provided ₹2,100 per hectare for two years toward certification costs under NMNF.

Certification can help establish greater credibility and traceability for naturally grown produce.

National Brand for Natural Farming Produce

Another objective of NMNF is to establish and promote a common national brand for naturally grown chemical-free produce.

A common branding and certification framework can potentially help consumers identify naturally grown products more easily and improve market recognition.

The mission specifically includes developing scientifically supported standards, farmer-friendly certification procedures and a national brand.

Latest Progress of National Mission on Natural Farming

The implementation of NMNF has expanded significantly.

According to Government of India information for FY 2025-26:

• 18,893 clusters were formed.
• 10.32 lakh hectares were covered.
• 20.93 lakh farmers were involved.
• 33.89 lakh farmers were made aware of natural farming.
• More than 22.47 lakh farmers were registered under the Natural Farming Certification System.
• More than 14.43 lakh farmers had been certified.
• 7,601 Bio-Input Resource Centres had been established.
• 33,257 Krishi Sakhis/CRPs had been trained.

These figures show that natural farming is moving beyond isolated demonstrations toward a larger organized national programme.

NMNF vs Organic Farming: Are They the Same?

No. Natural farming and organic farming are related but they are not exactly the same concept.

Organic farming generally operates under defined organic production standards and certification systems and places restrictions on permitted inputs.

Natural farming, as promoted under NMNF, focuses strongly on:

• Ecological farming
• On-farm natural inputs
• Local resources
• Livestock integration
• Reduced external input dependence
• Agro-ecological principles
• Traditional knowledge combined with scientific validation

Therefore, farmers should not automatically assume that a farm practicing natural farming is certified organic.

Certification requirements depend on the relevant certification system and market requirements.

Benefits of the National Mission on Natural Farming

The NMNF can provide several potential benefits.

For Farmers

• Training and technical guidance
• Reduced dependence on purchased inputs
• Potential reduction in cultivation costs
• Access to natural farming resources
• Financial incentive subject to eligibility
• Certification support
• Better access to natural farming knowledge

For Soil

• Greater emphasis on soil biological health
• Recycling of farm resources
• Reduced dependence on external inputs
• Improved soil management practices

For Environment

• Promotion of ecosystem-based agriculture
• Greater emphasis on biodiversity
• Reduced dependence on synthetic external inputs
• Better resource recycling

For Consumers

Certification and traceability systems can potentially improve consumer confidence in naturally grown produce.

Challenges in Adopting Natural Farming

Although natural farming has significant potential, farmers should understand that adoption is not always easy.

1. Knowledge Requirement

Natural farming requires farmers to understand crop-specific and location-specific management practices.

2. Transition Period

Changing from one farming system to another may require careful planning.

3. Availability of Resources

Farmers need access to appropriate local resources and knowledge for preparing and using natural inputs.

4. Pest and Disease Management

Natural approaches to pest and disease management require timely observation and correct decision-making.

5. Market Access

Producing naturally grown crops is only one part of the process. Farmers also need reliable markets and appropriate certification or branding where required.

6. Crop-Specific Results

The economic and yield outcomes of natural farming can vary depending on crop, region, soil, climate and management.

Therefore, farmers should ideally begin adoption with proper training, demonstrations and local technical guidance rather than changing their entire farm management system without preparation.

How Can Farmers Get Started With Natural Farming?

Farmers interested in adopting natural farming can follow a practical approach:

Step 1: Contact the Local Agriculture Department

Ask about NMNF implementation in your district or block.

Step 2: Identify Nearby Natural Farming Clusters

Find out whether your village or nearby villages are covered under an NMNF cluster.

Step 3: Attend Training

Participate in natural farming training and demonstrations.

Step 4: Understand Your Soil

Soil testing can help farmers understand their soil condition and make informed management decisions.

Step 5: Start Gradually

Farmers can consider starting with a manageable portion of their land and gaining experience before expanding.

Step 6: Learn On-Farm Input Preparation

Learn the recommended methods for preparing and applying natural farming inputs under local technical guidance.

Step 7: Maintain Farm Records

Record:

• Input costs
• Labour costs
• Yield
• Pest incidence
• Disease incidence
• Selling price
• Net returns

This allows farmers to objectively evaluate whether the new farming system is beneficial.

Step 8: Explore Certification and Markets

Farmers interested in selling produce as certified natural farming produce should understand the applicable certification and market requirements.

Role of KVKs and Agricultural Universities

Agricultural institutions have an important role in the NMNF ecosystem.

The mission aims to strengthen agro-ecological research and knowledge-based extension through organizations such as:

• Indian Council of Agricultural Research institutions
• Krishi Vigyan Kendras
• Agricultural Universities
• Natural farming institutions
• State agriculture departments

This combination of farmer experience and scientific knowledge is intended to improve natural farming practices according to local conditions.

Future of Natural Farming in India

The expansion of NMNF indicates that natural farming is becoming an important part of India's sustainable agriculture strategy.

The mission's approach combines:

Traditional knowledge + Scientific research + Farmer training + Local resources + Certification + Market development

This can help create a more integrated natural farming ecosystem.

However, the long-term success of natural farming will depend on factors such as:

• Farmer profitability
• Crop productivity
• Reliable technical guidance
• Market demand
• Certification credibility
• Availability of local resources
• Climate conditions
• Effective implementation at the state and district levels

Frequently Asked Questions About NMNF

What is NMNF?

NMNF stands for National Mission on Natural Farming. It is a Government of India scheme designed to promote natural farming practices across the country.

When was NMNF launched?

The Union Cabinet approved the National Mission on Natural Farming on 25 November 2024.

What is the total budget of NMNF?

The mission has a total outlay of ₹2,481 crore.

How much incentive is provided to farmers?

An output-based incentive of ₹4,000 per acre per year for two years, limited to one acre per farmer, is provided under the scheme subject to applicable conditions.

What is the maximum incentive for one farmer?

For one acre, the maximum over two years is ₹8,000, subject to eligibility and scheme conditions.

What are Bio-Input Resource Centres?

BRCs are centres intended to help farmers access natural farming bio-inputs and related resources.

Is natural farming the same as organic farming?

No. Natural farming and organic farming have different concepts, standards and implementation approaches.

Is certification available for natural farming?

Yes. The Natural Farming Certification System (NFCS) has been initiated under the programme, including PGS-INDIA NATURAL.

How can a farmer join NMNF?

Farmers should contact their State/District Agriculture Department, KVK or designated natural farming implementing agency to check current enrollment and cluster availability.

Conclusion

The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) represents a major government effort to encourage sustainable, low-input and ecosystem-based agriculture in India.

With an outlay of ₹2,481 crore, farmer incentives, natural farming clusters, Bio-Input Resource Centres, training, field-level support and certification mechanisms, the mission aims to create an ecosystem that enables farmers to progressively adopt natural farming.

For farmers, natural farming should not simply be viewed as a way to eliminate purchased inputs. It is a knowledge-intensive farming approach that requires appropriate crop planning, soil management, biological understanding, timely pest and disease management and good market planning.

With proper training and location-specific guidance, NMNF can play an important role in India's transition toward more sustainable, climate-resilient and resource-efficient agriculture.

Farmers interested in the scheme should verify current eligibility, enrollment procedures and available benefits with their local agriculture authorities before making financial or farm-management decisions.