Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel visits natural farming farm in Mahundra
Gandhinagar, July 18
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel adopted an innovative approach to take Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Back to Basics" vision to rural farmers by visiting natural farming farms.
In this context, the Chief Minister visited the farm of farmer Alpesh Patel, who practices natural farming in Mahundra village of Gandhinagar taluka. He also showed keen interest in understanding cattle management at the gaushala and learning about cow-based natural farming practices.
During this visit, CM sat on a Charpoi with the villagers of Mahundra and held an inspiring interaction with them. He said that natural farming is the only way to safeguard future generations. He added that reducing the excessive use of chemical fertilisers will help protect people from serious diseases while improving the health of both the soil and society, said a release.
Expressing concern over the declining health of the soil, he added that carbon levels in the soil have fallen to an alarming level. He said that natural farming is the only strong solution to improve the health of both the soil and the human body. He urged every citizen to take responsibility for conserving natural resources.
Referring to the nationwide 'Amrit Sarovar' and 'Khet Talavadi' campaigns inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide a long-term solution to water scarcity and irregular rainfall, he said that under schemes such as Sujalam Sufalam, the earlier limit of filling lakes from a distance of 3 kilometres has now been increased by the government to 7 kilometres.
Referring to the hydrogen train launched by the Prime Minister on Friday, the Chief Minister said that as the world moves towards green energy, India will also lead the way in this sector.
The Chief Minister urged citizens to adopt eco-friendly habits in their daily lives. He encouraged the use of paper bags instead of plastic bags for vegetables and other goods. He added that the state government is committed to balanced development by giving equal importance to both industry and the environment.
During the interaction programme, farmers practising natural farming shared their personal experiences and inspired other farmers to adopt chemical-free natural farming. They also appreciated the continuous guidance provided by agricultural scientists and government officials.
The Chief Minister also visited the model farm of farmer Shantilalbhai Patel at Shivpura Kampa.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good initiative but I hope this isn't just a photo-op. Chemical fertilizers have helped feed our growing population - we need a practical transition plan, not just slogans. The soil carbon issue is real though, and moving towards natural farming step by step makes sense.
As someone who works in agri-tech, this "Back to Basics" approach combined with modern thinking like green hydrogen trains is actually very smart. India needs both traditional wisdom and innovation to tackle climate change and food security simultaneously. CM Patel seems to get that balance.
I appreciate the emphasis on reducing plastic bags and conserving water - these are small things every household can do. But increasing lake filling distance to 7 km without addressing groundwater overuse? That needs more concrete action. Still, glad to see environmental consciousness in politics.
It's encouraging to see state governments taking natural farming seriously. The Amrit Sarovar and Khet Talavadi campaigns sound like practical solutions for water-scarce regions. Let's hope the farmers who transition get proper market support and fair prices for their organic produce.
"Reduce chemical fertilizers to protect from serious diseases" - nicely said CM sahab! Our grandparents farmed without chemicals and lived long healthy lives. It's time to return to those roots. But government must also ensure farmers don't face losses during this transition period. 🙏
R