Basics of Organic Farming

Organic farming is now recognized as the best known alternative to the conventional agriculture, where cultivation and raising of crops and best quality of food is grown without any harm to the soil health, environment and also to the human life itself. It helps in protecting the long-term fertility of soils by maintaining organic matter levels, encouraging soil biological activity and mechanical interventions. In organic agriculture the pests, weeds and diseases are managed primarily through crop rotations, natural predators, diversity, organic manuring, resistant varieties and limited thermal, biological and chemical interventions. India is now known to grow certified organic products which include basmati rice, pulses, honey, tea, spices, coffee, oilseeds, fruits, cereals, herbal medicines, cotton, garments, cosmetics,body care and other similar products. This book aims to promote building of simple but workable technologies in organic farming. The book should be of interest to agricultural, ecology and environmental populace; concerned educational institutions and universities; as well as organic growers,NGOs, trainers and different types of stakeholders and various organizations working in the field of organic agriculture. It is intended to be a unique and indispensable resource that offers a diverse range of value information, data and perspectives of the organic agricultural. Organic farming can provide quality food without adversely affecting the soil’s health and the environment; though raising a concern whether largescale organic farming will produce enough food for India’s large population.