A Healthier Harvest: Amit Shah Calls on Saurashtra Farmers to Embrace Organic Revolution

Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently issued a powerful appeal to the farming community of Saurashtra, urging them to pivot towards organic farming and significantly reduce their reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Speaking from Gandhidham, Kutch, after inaugurating a cutting-edge IFFCO nano urea plant, Shah addressed farmers in Amreli via video conference, emphasizing that this shift is not just about agricultural practice, but a crucial step towards safeguarding public health and ensuring a sustainable future for the land.

Shah articulated a clear and compelling vision: “Adopt organic farming and reduce the use of fertilisers and pesticides to improve people’s health.” He highlighted a pressing concern, noting that the excessive application of chemical inputs has led to a noticeable decline in human health, a consequence that impacts communities far beyond the farm gate.

His address underscored the urgency of reversing this trend, positioning organic practices as the cornerstone of a healthier society.

Beyond the immediate health benefits, Shah presented a strong economic incentive for farmers. He confidently stated, “The day the farmers of Gujarat adopt organic farming, the income will improve as prices of organic produce are higher.” This promise of enhanced profitability offers a tangible motivation for farmers, suggesting that while the transition may require effort, the long-term rewards—both for health and wealth—are substantial.

He believes that the market for organic produce is growing, and by meeting this demand, local farmers can command better prices for their hard-earned produce.

The call to action was particularly directed at the farmers of Saurashtra, a region renowned for its agricultural prowess, especially in groundnut and cotton cultivation.

Shah urged them directly, saying, “I appeal to farmers of Saurashtra to shift to organic farming.” This direct appeal signifies the government’s serious commitment to promoting natural farming methods, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader vision for sustainable agriculture across the nation.

Shah also touched upon broader national agricultural strategies, acknowledging India’s significant import dependency on crucial fertilizers like urea, DAP, and potash.

He lauded the establishment of the nano urea plant as a step towards reducing this reliance, but stressed that the ultimate goal should be to minimize the need for external inputs altogether through organic and natural farming. The minister also reiterated the importance of initiatives like soil health cards, which empower farmers with crucial information about their land, enabling more informed and sustainable cultivation choices.

This holistic approach aims not only to improve immediate yields but also to ensure the long-term vitality of agricultural land, preserving it for future generations while nurturing the health of the present.