115th FoCARS Interaction Session on Natural and Organic Farming Organised

23 August 2025, Hyderabad

ICAR–National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, organized an Interaction Session on “Natural and Organic Farming: Discourses and Experience Sharing by Experts and Practicing Farmers” today, as part of the ongoing 115th Foundation Course for Agricultural Research Service (FoCARS). The session aimed to expose young ARS probationers to sustainable farming concepts, farmer innovations, and field-level experiences.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Gopal Lal, Director, ICAR–NAARM, underscored the critical role of natural and organic farming in ensuring food quality, combating environmental degradation, and restoring soil health. He emphasized that sustainable farming systems are essential not only for maintaining long-term soil fertility but also for securing the nutritional well-being of future generations. Highlighting the harmful consequences of indiscriminate pesticide use on human and ecosystem health, he urged young scientists to focus on developing locally compatible natural and organic farming models.

The keynote session was delivered by Shri Yadlapally Venkateswara Rao, Padma Shri Awardee and Founder of Rythunestham, who shared his inspiring journey of initiating the Rythunestham magazine and foundation. Motivated by the rising incidence of farmer suicides, Shri Rao has worked relentlessly for farmer welfare and the promotion of sustainable farming. He elaborated on the adverse effects of excessive fertilizer and pesticide use on soil, biodiversity, and human health, while showcasing the foundation’s initiatives in training farmers and rural youth on natural farming practices, including Palekar’s Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF). He also stressed the importance of diversification, value addition, millet-based diets, terrace gardening, and the use of modern technologies such as drones to strengthen natural farming systems and improve farmer incomes.

The session witnessed active participation and engaging discussions, enabling ARS probationers to gain valuable insights into the synergy between traditional knowledge, farmer-led innovations, and scientific research for advancing sustainable agriculture.

(Source: ICAR – National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad)