Nowadays, there is a growing concern regarding sustainable agriculture and human health. That is why farmers now look for safe practices like organic and natural farming. Both have received significant attention as they serve as valuable ways to improve the ecosystem. These two methods also promote the gradual withdrawal of synthetically produced chemical inputs to improve soil quality.
However, organic farming depends on certified processes and external inputs. But natural farming is all about following the natural ways with no interference from external inputs. Though they are pretty much the same, let’s look at the difference between natural farming vs organic farming.
Understanding Natural Farming
Natural farming looks similar to an agricultural practice that aligns more with nature’s teachings. The practice was initially launched in Japan by great thinkers like Masanobu Fukuoka and Mokichi Okada. This technique is far different from conventional farming strategies. This is because it eliminates human interference and external inputs. Among many natural farming methods in India, the prominent one is Subhash Palekar Natural Farming.
Individuals know this by its old name, Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF). Now, many states in India, including Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh, have implemented it. It has been adopted by more than 700 villages, which has helped many farmers. This farming method utilises live mulching, cow dung, intercropping, weed, Indigenous seeds, and others to promote eco-friendly farming.
Key Differences Between Natural and Organic Farming
Both farming methods ensure sustainable agriculture. But, they both are different in terms of inputs, outcomes, and methods. So, let’s know about natural farming vs organic farming in detail.
- Inputs
Organic farming consists of manures and organic fertilisers. It uses cow dung, compost, and other external sources for manures. Natural farming, on the other hand, concentrates more on improving the soil without adding external fertilisers.
- Practices
Natural farming encourages the decomposition of organic matter by microbes and earthworms on the surface of the soil. It also requires agro practices such as ploughing, tilting, and weeding, among others. However, this method imitates natural ecosystems.
- Cost
Bulk manures are costly in organic farming, and this has ecological consequences. Natural farming is affordable and compatible with the natural ecosystem. One of the most popular methods of natural farming is Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF).
| Aspect | Natural Farming | Organic Farming |
| Farming Practices | Concentrates more on natural way of farming without external inputs | Involves the uses of the external things |
| Inputs | Indigenous seeds, cow dung, cow urine, botanical extracts. | Organic fertilizers, compost, certified seeds. |
| Outcomes | Through biodiversity and decomposition, it builds soil fertility. | It improves the soil health through organic methods. |
| Certification | It does not require any certificates. | This requires a third-party certification. |
| Cost | Affordable | High cost |
Benefits of Natural and Organic Farming
Natural and organic farming are eco-friendly agricultural practices. They aim to improve the health of the soil and the produce. Plus, they form a more sustainable approach to farming.
- Improves Soil Health
Among the benefits of natural farming organic farming improves the nutrient content of the soil. This helps to enhance the soil structure. In addition, these methods provide long-term sustainability.
- Sustainable Water Management
The best part is that these farming methods can conserve water through minimal use of water. Also, they follow practices such as mulching, planting, and crop interchanging. They ensure moisture conservation benefits. So this further proves that farmers can prevent water wastage.
- Biodiversity Conservation
One of the top benefits of organic farming and natural farming is biodiversity conservation. They eliminate the frequent use of dangerous chemicals that can pose a threat to wildlife. In addition, they support the rehabilitation of habitats and enhance the range of pollinators and other natural enemies.
- Ethical Animal Welfare
Both organic and natural farming aim to improve the welfare of animals in many ways. This ensures that the livestock is handled appropriately, further helping to give animals a better life.
Challenges and Considerations
There are challenges when it comes to natural farming vs. organic farming. But it won’t be a problem if farmers consider them and seek solutions. Let’s understand the challenges and considerations for better understanding.
- First challenge is the managing pests and diseases without any kind of chemicals. It may sound good for the environment, but in the long run, it affects crop yields. So, it would be better if farmers use organic-approved pest control methods.
- Another challenge of organic farming is the slow release of nutrients. However, combining organic fertilisers and green manures can be a solid solution.
- One challenge of organic farming is the high certification costs. But as this method has yielded good results, some individuals ignore the costs.
Government Initiatives and Support
The following are the Indian government’s policies towards creating sustainable farming. These two are Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) and Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY).
- ZBNF is an agro ecological practice that does not require chemical fertiliser and pest control. The “Zero Budget” term indicates low cost production. So, this method makes use of locally available inputs. So, it means cow dung, cow urine and natural insecticides.
- Starting in 2015, PKVY is a centrally sponsored scheme under the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA). The goal of this program is to persuade farmers to adopt organic farming. Bio-fertilizer, bio-pesticides, and organic manure required by the PKVY farmers are sourced through this programme.
Therefore, the ZBNF and PKVY are two bigger strategies for the adoption of improved soil health and the reduction of chemicals used. They are there for the support of the promotion of sustainable farming system agriculture in the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both natural farming and organic farming give environment-friendly methods to the conventional farming system. So, their focus is on soil health, biological variety and environmental conservation. They are similar in some aspects.
But, there is still something that opens the debate of natural farming vs organic farming. So, adopt any of the sustainable methods to participate in the improvement of the Agriculture system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main difference between natural and organic farming?
Natural farming includes the complete avoidance of synthetic inputs. The aim of natural farming is self-reliance. However, organic farming needs external inputs and certification.
Can natural farming be practised on a large scale?
Of course, the application of natural farming is possible in large-scale farming. It deals with retaining production from local resources.
Is organic food more nutritious than conventionally grown food?
Organic food is generally believed to be more nutrient-rich, specifically in vitamins and minerals, than conventionally grown food. However, the total nutrient variation between genetically modified food and conventional food is comparatively small.
What are the cost implications of switching to natural or organic farming?
One of the best benefits of natural farming is that it is usually cheaper than other types of farming because it requires little or no input. However, the cost of organic farming includes certification and inputs.
How do certification processes differ between natural and organic farming?
Organic farming requires third-party assurance for health safety. However, farmers can easily choose it as it does not require any certifications.
What role do animals play in natural and organic farming systems?
Animals provide natural fertilisers like manure that help fertilise the soil. They also help enhance a balanced ecosystem that supports biodiversity and raises support for sustainable nature.
