Deprecated (16384): The ArrayAccess methods will be removed in 4.0.0.Use getParam(), getData() and getQuery() instead. - /home/brlfuser/public_html/src/Controller/ArtileDetailController.php, line: 73
 You can disable deprecation warnings by setting `Error.errorLevel` to `E_ALL & ~E_USER_DEPRECATED` in your config/app.php. [CORE/src/Core/functions.php, line 311]
Code Context


        trigger_error($message, E_USER_DEPRECATED);

    }
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 You can disable deprecation warnings by setting `Error.errorLevel` to `E_ALL & ~E_USER_DEPRECATED` in your config/app.php.'
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deprecationWarning - CORE/src/Core/functions.php, line 311
Cake\Http\ServerRequest::offsetGet() - CORE/src/Http/ServerRequest.php, line 2421
App\Controller\ArtileDetailController::printArticle() - APP/Controller/ArtileDetailController.php, line 73
Cake\Controller\Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/src/Controller/Controller.php, line 610
Cake\Http\ActionDispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/src/Http/ActionDispatcher.php, line 120
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Cake\Http\Runner::__invoke() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 65
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Cake\Http\Runner::__invoke() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 65
Cake\Routing\Middleware\AssetMiddleware::__invoke() - CORE/src/Routing/Middleware/AssetMiddleware.php, line 88
Cake\Http\Runner::__invoke() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 65
Cake\Error\Middleware\ErrorHandlerMiddleware::__invoke() - CORE/src/Error/Middleware/ErrorHandlerMiddleware.php, line 96
Cake\Http\Runner::__invoke() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 65
Cake\Http\Runner::run() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 51
Cake\Http\Server::run() - CORE/src/Http/Server.php, line 98

Deprecated (16384): The ArrayAccess methods will be removed in 4.0.0.Use getParam(), getData() and getQuery() instead. - /home/brlfuser/public_html/src/Controller/ArtileDetailController.php, line: 74
 You can disable deprecation warnings by setting `Error.errorLevel` to `E_ALL & ~E_USER_DEPRECATED` in your config/app.php. [CORE/src/Core/functions.php, line 311]
Code Context


        trigger_error($message, E_USER_DEPRECATED);

    }
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 You can disable deprecation warnings by setting `Error.errorLevel` to `E_ALL & ~E_USER_DEPRECATED` in your config/app.php.'
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deprecationWarning - CORE/src/Core/functions.php, line 311
Cake\Http\ServerRequest::offsetGet() - CORE/src/Http/ServerRequest.php, line 2421
App\Controller\ArtileDetailController::printArticle() - APP/Controller/ArtileDetailController.php, line 74
Cake\Controller\Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/src/Controller/Controller.php, line 610
Cake\Http\ActionDispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/src/Http/ActionDispatcher.php, line 120
Cake\Http\ActionDispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/src/Http/ActionDispatcher.php, line 94
Cake\Http\BaseApplication::__invoke() - CORE/src/Http/BaseApplication.php, line 235
Cake\Http\Runner::__invoke() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 65
Cake\Routing\Middleware\RoutingMiddleware::__invoke() - CORE/src/Routing/Middleware/RoutingMiddleware.php, line 162
Cake\Http\Runner::__invoke() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 65
Cake\Routing\Middleware\AssetMiddleware::__invoke() - CORE/src/Routing/Middleware/AssetMiddleware.php, line 88
Cake\Http\Runner::__invoke() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 65
Cake\Error\Middleware\ErrorHandlerMiddleware::__invoke() - CORE/src/Error/Middleware/ErrorHandlerMiddleware.php, line 96
Cake\Http\Runner::__invoke() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 65
Cake\Http\Runner::run() - CORE/src/Http/Runner.php, line 51
Cake\Http\Server::run() - CORE/src/Http/Server.php, line 98

Warning (512): Unable to emit headers. Headers sent in file=/home/brlfuser/public_html/vendor/cakephp/cakephp/src/Error/Debugger.php line=853 [CORE/src/Http/ResponseEmitter.php, line 48]
Code Context
            if (Configure::read('debug')) {

                trigger_error($message, E_USER_WARNING);

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&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;
customers.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;
scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;&lt;em&gt;The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&amp;nbsp; &lt;br /&gt;
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Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has...&#039;,
	&#039;disp&#039; =&gt; &#039;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;font &gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;font &gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;customers.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;&lt;em&gt;The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&amp;nbsp; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&#039;,
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	&#039;description&#039; =&gt; &#039;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;
customers.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;
scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;&lt;em&gt;The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&amp;nbsp; &lt;br /&gt;
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Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has...&#039;
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To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;customers.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. 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It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. 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Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has..."/>
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                <strong>Bottlenecks in organic farming by SS Chahal</strong></h1>
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                <p align="justify"><br /><font >Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.</font></p><p align="justify"><br /><font >Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large <br />customers.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on <br />scientific data.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. </font></p><p align="justify"><font >In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. </font></p><p align="justify"><font >There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation </font></p><p align="justify"><font >Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.</font></p><p align="justify"><font ><em>The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&nbsp; <br /></em></font></p>               </font>
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.&lt;/font&gt;
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.&lt;/font&gt;
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;
scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
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&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;&lt;em&gt;The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&amp;nbsp; &lt;br /&gt;
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	&#039;metaTitle&#039; =&gt; &#039;LATEST NEWS UPDATES | Bottlenecks in organic farming by SS Chahal&#039;,
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Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has...&#039;,
	&#039;disp&#039; =&gt; &#039;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;font &gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;font &gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;customers.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. 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	&#039;id&#039; =&gt; (int) 2089,
	&#039;title&#039; =&gt; &#039;Bottlenecks in organic farming by SS Chahal&#039;,
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&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;
customers.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;
scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;&lt;em&gt;The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&amp;nbsp; &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
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Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has...&#039;
$disp = &#039;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;font &gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;font &gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. 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To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;customers.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;&lt;em&gt;The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&amp;nbsp; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&#039;
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Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has..."/>
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                <strong>Bottlenecks in organic farming by SS Chahal</strong></h1>
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                <p align="justify"><br /><font >Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.</font></p><p align="justify"><br /><font >Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large <br />customers.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on <br />scientific data.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. </font></p><p align="justify"><font >In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. </font></p><p align="justify"><font >There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation </font></p><p align="justify"><font >Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.</font></p><p align="justify"><font ><em>The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&nbsp; <br /></em></font></p>               </font>
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&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;
customers.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;
scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;&lt;em&gt;The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&amp;nbsp; &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
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Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has...&#039;,
	&#039;disp&#039; =&gt; &#039;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;font &gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;font &gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;customers.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. 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	&#039;title&#039; =&gt; &#039;Bottlenecks in organic farming by SS Chahal&#039;,
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	&#039;description&#039; =&gt; &#039;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;br /&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;
customers.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on &lt;br /&gt;
scientific data.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;
&lt;font face=&quot;arial,helvetica,sans-serif&quot; size=&quot;3&quot;&gt;&lt;em&gt;The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&amp;nbsp; &lt;br /&gt;
&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/font&gt;
&lt;/p&gt;
&#039;,
	&#039;credit_writer&#039; =&gt; &#039;The Tribune, 9 June, 2010, http://www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20100609/edit.htm#6&#039;,
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Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has...&#039;
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To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large &lt;br /&gt;customers.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. 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The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&amp;rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.&lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation &lt;/font&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p align=&quot;justify&quot;&gt;&lt;font &gt;Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. 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                <strong>Bottlenecks in organic farming by SS Chahal</strong></h1>
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                <p align="justify"><br /><font >Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.</font></p><p align="justify"><br /><font >Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large <br />customers.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on <br />scientific data.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. </font></p><p align="justify"><font >In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. </font></p><p align="justify"><font >There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation </font></p><p align="justify"><font >Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.</font></p><p align="justify"><font ><em>The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&nbsp; <br /></em></font></p>               </font>
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<br />
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<br />
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large <br />
customers.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on <br />
scientific data.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. </font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. </font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation </font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3"><em>The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&nbsp; <br />
</em></font>
</p>
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But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on <br />scientific data.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. 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Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. </font></p><p align="justify"><font >In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. 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<br />
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<br />
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large <br />
customers.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on <br />
scientific data.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. </font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. </font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation </font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3">Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.</font>
</p>
<p align="justify">
<font face="arial,helvetica,sans-serif" size="3"><em>The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&nbsp; <br />
</em></font>
</p>
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Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has...'
$disp = '<p align="justify"><br /><font >Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources.</font></p><p align="justify"><br /><font >Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large <br />customers.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on <br />scientific data.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers&rsquo; cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives.</font></p><p align="justify"><font >Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. </font></p><p align="justify"><font >In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. </font></p><p align="justify"><font >There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation </font></p><p align="justify"><font >Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources.</font></p><p align="justify"><font ><em>The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur&nbsp; <br /></em></font></p>'
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Bottlenecks in organic farming by SS Chahal

Indian agriculture was mostly organic before the advent of the Green Revolution. However, the widespread adoption of nutrient-responsive and high-yielding varieties greatly promoted the use of inorganic fertilisers, weedicides and insecticides. The compulsion to grow more for food security has led farmers to overlook food quality norms and an indiscriminate use of natural resources. Based on three principal factors viz., mixed cropping, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers, the National Organic Agriculture Centre under the Union Ministry of Agriculture is pushing organic farming because it reduces the input cost of farmers, gives higher prices of organic produce and ameliorates soil health. The area under organic agriculture has increased from 73,000 hectares in 2003 to 8,65,000 hectares in 2008 but still only about 0.6 per cent area of cultivated land is under organic farming in India. No systematic research has been carried out to substantially provide data to support that organic agriculture gives equal or more production as well as that organic produce is more nutritive. Neither there are well-defined parameters and standardised procedures to differentiate organically and inorganically produced food. Apparently all foodgrains, vegetables and fruits look alike. The unavailability of such standards is a major constraint and setback to the marketing of organic produce. The organic produce fetches higher prices. But the meager organic market has yet to win the confidence of even elite customers with sufficient purchasing power. To push the sale of organic produce it is essential to develop a reliable organic market. It is thus prudent to determine minimum standards and a reliable accreditation system for the establishment of accredited organic outlets to inspire and attract large customers. At present certification is a cumbersome and costly process. There are six authorised accreditation agencies, including the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which accord certification apart from 18 inspection certification bodies in different states. Spending Rs 30,000 for a certification per unit land is a major impediment for small and marginal farmers. It is however possible through cooperative or contract farming, which have some inherent problems. Organic farming can be profitable through the production and export of high-value, low-volume crops. But for commercial success it is important that the product is certified by an internationally accredited agency as well. Conventional practices are not suitable for growing crops organically. A specific technology package is required which includes land preparation, selection of variety, organic fertilization, biological control of pest and diseases and weeds, harvest, storage etc. The package developed for certain crops requires refinement based on scientific data. It is necessary to remove the inadequacy of infrastructural support. Recognized green markets are still non-existent and effective trade channels are yet to be formed. The development of robust supply chains and related infrastructure for grading, packaging, storage and transportation will contribute greatly for the competitive price of organic produce to the growers in domestic and international markets. Scant demand, erratic supplies, lack of organized marketing and a distribution network are certain deterrents to instill interest in retailers. Therefore, it is worthwhile to establish linkages between growers and consumers, minimizing the influence of middlemen, promoting producers’ cooperative marketing societies and credible marketing channels for a steady flow of organic foods in accordance with the demand. It will be immensely useful to safeguard the interest of farmers opting for organic farming. India has developed national standards under the National Programme on Organic Products which have checked the exorbitant fees charged by certain international agencies. However, adequate financial support to promote organic farming is still wanted. Small and marginal farmers cannot take the risk of low yields. Simply the price premium of organic products is generally insufficient. Special gestation period support schemes should be framed to provide support in the initial period to avoid mid-stream abandoning of organic initiatives. Certain realities, considerations and viabilities are different in areas where intensive cultivation has established its roots and soil replenishment is critically difficult by omitting one crop. Though such areas are experiencing soil fatigue, the prevalence of changed and virulent insect pest population and organic matter depletion in soil, an indiscriminate use of insecticide, fungicides and herbicides, yet it is a compulsion to continue intensive cropping for the sake of food security in the country. In this respect, the Punjab Farmers Commission is not totally out of place when it says that organic farming is not suitable in Punjab as much as it is for other states. Besides the above factors, this state has no large pasture land, largely farmers have small land-holdings and prevalent mechanisation has reduced the animal population, thus putting a limitation on resources for organic manurey. But surely Punjab agriculture needs a relook in respect of over-exploitation of inorganics in agriculture. There are no two opinions that there is an acute need to supplement organic matter in soil and reduce the use of inorganics. The bringing of about 3,000 hectare area in Punjab under organic farming through a cluster approach by the National Horticulture Mission through NAFED and initiative of certain farmers individually deserves appreciation Going back to old practices has no meaning in modern agriculture when the fear of food insecurity is looms large. However, the need is to adopt new technologies, taking the ecological, environmental, food and health safety into consideration and caring for the sustainability of natural resources. The writer is the Vice Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur