Farmers should avoid excessive use of pesticides: Governor

Shimla, June 8, 2017: Governor Acharya Devvrat stressed upon promoting zero budgeting natural farming in the State besides educating the people and farmers about its benefits. He said natural farming would not only double the income of farmers but also reduce the cost of production.

He was addressing a gathering during Kisan Mela organized by Pragati Yuva Sangathan at Gumma in Shimla district today.

The Governor said that number of diseases had increased due to excessive use of chemical farming. The best part of adopting natural system of farming was that it has no financial implication and the farmers would not have to outsource from the market as it was prepared naturally. He said the farmers should be encouraged to rear domestic cows instead of hybrid one imported from abroad. He said that the cows found in hilly areas were significant in many ways.

He said that initially to adopt natural farming was a challenge but large number of farmers in India was adopting zero budget farming. He asked the local farmers to avoid chemical fertilizers and excessive use of pesticides as it decrease the crop productivity. He stressed on soil testing and adopting floriculture, off-season vegetables and fruit production which would be helpful in increasing their income. He appealed them to start Kiwi plantation in the area which would change the economy of the area.

Acharya Devvrat said that more farmers should be encouraged to practice natural farming besides educating consumers to buy only natural products. He said that pesticides presently being used were not only harmful for health of consumers but were also destroying the fertility of soil. He said that farmers should adopt cycle of crops which was part of traditional farming which not only provided natural pesticides, but diversification of crops also contributed towards the increase in income. He said that use of natural pesticides should be encouraged and the farmers should be made aware regarding their usage.

He announced rupees one lakh for promoting zero budget natural farming in the area to by Pragati Yuva Sangathan and Rs. 11000 to the school children who performed cultural programme on the occasion.

The Governor also visited the exhibition put up by Horticulture and Agriculture departments, Self-Help Groups.

The Governor also honored the progressive farmers on the occasion.

Dr. H.C. Sharma, Vice Chancellor Horticulture University Nauni (Solan) said the University had already introduced the concept of natural farming and the scientist of the University would assist the farmers of the area for Kiwi and Mushroom production.

Dr. Sushma Bhardwaj, Associate Director, Horticulture Research Station, Mashobra detailed out various programmes being run by the center for the benefit of farmers and horticulturists.

Shri Pardeep Thakur, President, Pragati Yuva Sangathan, Gumma welcomed the Governor.

A colorful cultural programme and skit was also performed by the students of Gov. Senior Secondary School, Gumma.

Earlier, the Governor also visited old age home at Basantpur and expressed satisfaction over the facilities being provided there.