Himachal’s Green Revolution: How Natural Farming is Transforming Rural Lives

In recent years, Himachal Pradesh has been quietly witnessing a powerful shift in its agricultural landscape. More and more farmers and horticulturists across the state are turning to natural, chemical-free farming. This growing interest isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a movement. Today, over 2.23 lakh farmers have embraced natural farming, either fully or partially, across nearly every panchayat in the state.

What’s fueling this transformation? It’s the consistent push by the state government to empower farmers, boost the rural economy, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. From offering quality seeds and fair prices for crops to expanding irrigation and providing insurance, the government’s support has been comprehensive. Even the current budget, presented by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, puts a strong emphasis on strengthening the agrarian sector.

One of the most remarkable steps taken has been the introduction of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops grown through natural farming. In a first-of-its-kind decision, the government set an MSP of Rs. 30 per kg for maize last year, which was increased to Rs. 40 per kg this year. Already, around 400 metric tons of maize have been procured from over 1,500 farmers. Wheat is also being purchased at an MSP of Rs. 60 per kg, and in an encouraging move, raw turmeric grown using natural methods will now fetch an MSP of Rs. 90 per kg. This turmeric will be marketed under the brand ‘Himachal Haldi’, adding further value to the farmers’ produce.

Looking ahead, the state aims to connect nearly 9.61 lakh farmers with natural farming practices in a phased manner. To support this, dedicated market spaces are being set up in 10 different locations, ensuring farmers have the right infrastructure to sell their naturally grown produce.

Under the Prakritik Kheti Khushal Yojana, significant investments have been made—Rs. 27.60 crore over the past two years, with another Rs. 7.28 crore allocated for the current financial year. A high-level committee led by the Chief Minister and a dedicated task force under the Chief Secretary are ensuring that the schemes are implemented efficiently and benefits reach farmers without red tape.

To further ease the transition to natural farming, the government is offering a variety of subsidies—Rs. 750 per drum (up to Rs. 2,250) for composting, Rs. 8,000 for building concrete floors and urine pits in cowsheds, and a 50% subsidy (up to Rs. 25,000) for purchasing indigenous cows, with an added Rs. 5,000 for transportation.

Natural farming is not only good for the environment and consumer health, but it’s also a zero-budget method that drastically reduces input costs. As a result, farmers are seeing a rise in income and an improved quality of life. Chemical-free crops are richer in nutrients, and the soil retains its fertility, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Himachal Pradesh’s ongoing efforts to promote natural farming represent more than just agricultural reform—they are sowing the seeds of a greener, healthier, and more prosperous future for its farmers.