Himachal Governor Acharya Devvrat on Monday stressed to switch over to zero budget natural farming as chemical or organic farming was not acceptable in present scenario for the benefit of farmers. He said the agri-scientists had a great role to play in it and they need to start a movement from village level.
Speaking as chief guest during a programme organized on zero budget natural farming at Chaudhary Sarvan Kumar Agriculture University, Palampur, the Governor said zero budget natural farming system was the only alternative for chemical and organic farming as it was safe and had capacity to double the income of farmers. Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur presided over the function. The Governor congratulated the Chief Minister for executing natural farming project in the state and expressed hope that it would strengthen the farm sector.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said that with 13 research stations and eight Krishi Vigyan Kendras located in different parts of the State, the University was catering to basic needs of the farmers after thorough training thus assisting the agriculturalists to improve their economy.
"With launching of this pilot project, I believe that the farming community will benefit a lot from zero budget natural farming projects," said the Chief Minister.
He lauded the efforts of Sikkim state for taking lead in organic farming and said that we have to surpass Sikkim in zero budget natural farming instead of using insecticides and pesticides.
Thakur reiterated his government’s resolve to root out corruption from the state and mafia of all types. He assured to redress the grievances and problems being faced by the University.