Six universities namely, Sardar Krishi Nagar Dantewada, Navsari Krishi University, Anand Krishi University, Junagarh Krishi University, the Gujarat Prakrutik ane Jaivik Krishi University and Gujarat University will begin to offer graduate and post-graduate programs in natural farming.
The final discussions on beginning these academic programs on natural farming were attended by the senior advisor (Agriculture), Niti Aayog, Dr Neelam Patel, Chancellors of these six universities, Agri- scientists, and subject experts. The meeting was helmed by governor Acharya Devarat.
All subjects from ancient times to modern ages, have been thoroughly gone through, before crafting the programs on natural farming. It was seen that real-life experiences of a lot of farmers were included. The programs are based on scientific research and references.
Acharya Devarat emphasized the importance of seeds, as he said that improving the quality of seeds will only lead to optimum production. He addressed the chancellors of the agricultural universities regarding the same and talked about the conservation of such seeds at the university level. He also encouraged the universities to urge more students to take up PhDs in natural farming as that would brighten the future of farming.
Besides graduate and post-graduate programs, these universities will also offer 3-month certificate programs in the area of natural farming. Any ordinary person or farmer can apply for this course. Plans are also ongoing to start offering graduate and post-graduate programs in natural farming in Himachal Pradesh and Haryana besides Gujarat.
Acharya strongly believes that Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh should emerge as leaders in popularising natural farming as a subject.
