Bihar has emerged as one of the leading states promoting chemical-free and natural farming, with a growing number of farmers shifting away from conventional chemical-based agriculture. Driven by state government initiatives and increasing farmer awareness, more than 50,000 farmers across all 38 districts have adopted natural farming on over 20,000 hectares of land.
Under the natural farming model, farmers are using cow dung, cow urine, and organic formulations in place of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. This transition has significantly reduced cultivation costs, improved soil health, and ensured the supply of poison-free grains, fruits, and vegetables to consumers. Officials say the move is also helping reduce farmers’ dependence on chemical inputs, contributing to environmental conservation.
To support farmers with essential organic inputs, the state has established 266 Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs). These centres provide natural formulations such as Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, Ghanjeevamrit, Neemastra, and Agni Astra. In addition, regular training programmes are being conducted to help farmers prepare and apply these inputs scientifically.
Natural farming is gaining popularity in districts such as Rohtas, Nalanda, and Patna, where farmers are expanding beyond traditional crops like paddy and wheat to cultivate vegetables, including tomatoes, brinjal, okra, cabbage, and chillies, as well as fruits such as dragon fruit, guava, papaya, and banana. Officials say this diversification is boosting farmers’ incomes and helping them adapt to climate-related challenges.
The initiative, launched in 2025 under the Centre’s National Mission on Natural Farming, is being supported by 800 trained “Krishi Sakhis” deployed across the state. These field-level workers provide technical guidance on natural farming techniques, preparation of organic inputs, and crop management, encouraging farmers to adopt innovative practices.
Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav said the widespread adoption of natural farming reflects farmers’ growing awareness of sustainable agriculture and healthy living. He added that efforts to reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers and promote eco-friendly farming are delivering positive results, with natural farming increasingly taking the form of a mass movement in Bihar.
