From Chemicals to Organics: Tripura Farmers embrace change

Tripura’s agricultural landscape is undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation as farmers steadily shift from chemical-intensive practices to natural and organic farming. 

The change was highlighted at the district-level “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” and workshop on natural farming, inaugurated by State Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath at Ragna Higher Secondary School on Tuesday.

The campaign, part of a nationwide initiative running through June, aims to protect farmland from declining fertility and pollution caused by excessive chemical use. 

Minister Nath reminded participants that before 2018, natural farming was virtually absent in Tripura. Today, more than 5,000 hectares are under natural farming, with a target of 16,000 hectares by year-end, while organic farming has expanded from 2,000 hectares to over 26,000 hectares.

“Many believe chemicals guarantee higher yields, but natural farming can deliver productivity while cutting costs and safeguarding soil health,” Nath said, stressing that the government is committed to supporting farmers with exposure, training, and incentives.

The initiative is not limited to farmers alone. Public representatives and landowners are being encouraged to adopt natural farming practices to inspire wider participation. Meetings are being held at Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, and Zilla Parishad levels, with scientists from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) actively involved in guiding farmers.

Minister Nath also linked the campaign to India’s broader economic vision, noting that protecting farmland is essential for sustainable growth. “Our goal is to make India the number one nation by 2047. Agriculture must remain strong to achieve that,” he said.

However, for state's farmers, the shift from chemicals to organics is more than a policy directive — it is a step toward resilient farming, healthier soil, and a sustainable future.