Andhra Pradesh chief urges shift to natural farming for biodiversity gains

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu used a ceremony in Kuppam to press the case for natural farming, urging Andhra Pradesh’s cultivators to cut reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The Hindu reported that Naidu highlighted the link between reduced chemical use, healthier soils and the preservation of local biodiversity, framing the appeal as part of a broader development agenda for the district.

During the launch of several infrastructure works, the chief minister said that moving toward natural farming methods would not only safeguard the environment but also improve farmers’ long‑term earnings. He pointed to the mounting costs of chemical inputs and the mounting evidence that over‑use degrades soil structure, reduces water retention and harms beneficial insects.

The call comes as Indian states experiment with low‑input agriculture. Telangana’s “Zero Budget Natural Farming” (ZBNF) model, introduced in 2016, has drawn both praise for higher yields in some areas and criticism for inconsistent results. Andhra Pradesh, traditionally a major rice and cash‑crop producer, has seen a steady rise in fertilizer consumption, prompting concerns about groundwater depletion and soil acidity. By promoting biodiversity‑friendly practices—such as inter‑cropping, use of organic manures and seed preservation—Naidu hopes to align the state’s agrarian policies with national sustainability goals.

Experts note that a shift to natural farming requires robust extension services, access to quality organic inputs and market linkages for produce that meets consumer demand for “clean” food. The state’s agricultural department has begun training programs and pilot plots, but scaling up will depend on farmer confidence and financial incentives. If successful, the initiative could reduce input costs for smallholders, lower greenhouse‑gas emissions from fertilizer production and contribute to India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Naidu’s message underscores a growing political consensus that agriculture must evolve to protect ecosystems while feeding a rising population. As the monsoon season approaches, the chief minister’s appeal may shape planting decisions across Andhra’s fertile plains, setting a precedent for other regions grappling with the environmental toll of intensive farming.