eChapters

Historical Perspective

Organic Farming was initiated in about 10,000 years back when ancient farmers started cultivation depending on natural sources only. There is a brief mention of several organic inputs in our ancient literature like Rigveda, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Kautilya Arthashastra etc. In fact, organic agriculture has its roots in traditional agricultural practices that evolved in countless villages and farming communities over the millennium.

Organic Movement

The organic movement began in the 1930s and 1940s as a reaction to agriculture’s growing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Artificial fertilizers had been created during the 18th century, initially with superphosphates and then ammonia derived fertilizers mass-produced using the Haber-Bosch process developed during World War I. These early fertilizers were cheap, powerful, and easy to transport in bulk. The 1940s has been referred to as the ‘pesticide era’. Sir Albert Howard is widely considered to be the father of organic farming. Rudolf Steiner, an Austrian philosopher, made important strides in the earliest organic theory with his biodynamic agriculture. More work was done by J.I. Rodale in the United States, Lady Eve Balfour in the United Kingdom, and many others across the world. As a percentage of total agricultural output, organic farming has remained tiny since its beginning. As environmental awareness and concern increased, the originally supply-driven movement became demand driven. Standardized certification brought premium prices, and in some cases government subsidies attracted many farmers converting into organic farming. In the developing world, many farmers started organic farming according to traditional methods but are not certified. In other cases, farmers in the developing world have converted out of necessity. As a proportion of total global agricultural output, organic output remains small, but it has been growing rapidly in many countries, notably in Europe.

Organic farming primarily aimed at cultivating the land and raising crops in such a way so as to keep the soil alive and in good health by use of organic wastes and beneficial microbes. Organic farming is performed with an intension for maintaining diversity of crops, keeping soil healthy for future years, producing high quality products and recycling nutrients. Unlike modern agriculture, organic farming is not depended on synthetic chemicals. Instead, it depends on natural products to boost soil fertility through microbial activity. Organic farming uses a multiple cropping system, which benefits from growing several crops. This crop diversity supports a range of plants, insects, soil micro-organisms and animals that add to a healthy farming system. Organic farmings are of different types such as bio-farming, nature farming, eco-farming and biodynamic farming. Organic agriculture is developed with concented efforts by various people to create the symbiotic relationship between the nature and man. In the present day, organic agriculture has shown potentiality in commercial, social and environmental sector.

Organic farming is a production management system, which promotes agro-ecosystem and agrobiodiversity. The objective of organic farming is to generate all the required plant nutrients inside the farm and adopt crop protection using local resources. Organic farming emphasizes on the use of farm yard manure, crop residues, composts, vermi-compost and bio-fertilizers to enrich soil fertility and use of bio-control measures to manage insect and diseases. In particular, organic agriculture is intended to produce high quality, nutritious food which helps in preventive health care. Organic farming increases biodiversity at every level i.e. from micro-organism to mammals. It strengthens biodiversity by using bio-pesticides and inorganic fertilizers.

Globally, organic oilseeds constitute an important element in organic production. Their products are important feedstuffs (oilcake) and also relevant for human consumption (soya products, oils), and demand for these is continually growing. Almost half of the global organic oilseed area is occupied by soybeans, and another almost 20% is for sunflower seeds and sesame. Rape and turnip rape constitute about 6% of the organic oilseed area. Oilseeds are of pivotal significance in the Indian agricultural economy supporting income of millions of farmers practicing mainly rainfed cultivation. Nine annual oilseed crops are cultivated in India that includes groundnut, rapeseed-mustard, soybean, sunflower, sesame, niger and safflower that are edible and non-edible oilseed crops include castor and linseed. Organic agriculture is one among the broad spectrum of production methods that are supportive of the environment. The principal method of organic farming includes crop rotation, green manures and composts, biological pest control and reduced tillage. The performance of annual edible oilseed crops and development of package in relation to organic management for sustainable agriculture are discussed in this chapter.

1. Introduction

In India, both annual and perennial edible oilseed crops are cultivated. Annual edible oilseed crops include groundnut, rapeseed-mustard, soybean, sunflower, sesame, niger and safflower. India, the 4th largest vegetable oil economy in the world, stands first in the production of castor, sesame, safflower, and niger oils, whereas second in groundnut, third in rapeseed mustard, fourth in linseed and fifth in soybean oil. About 14 million farmers are engaged in oilseeds production and another million in their processing. Whereas, the perennial edible oil seed crops include oil palm and coconut. Edible oils are also produced domestically from secondary sources such as rice bran, cotton seed, corn, and other tree-borne oilseeds (TBOs), besides some minor oil producing species of forest origin.

Introduction

The goals and ideas of organic farming and regenerative agriculture are quite similar. Organic farming is a method of cultivating crops that prioritizes ecological sustainability by eschewing the use of artificial chemicals and genetically modified organisms in favor of more traditional practices. Producing residue- free food while also improving soil health, biodiversity, and ecological balance is the primary goal of this method. To restore and improve the health of the soil, ecosystems, and communities involved in agricultural systems, regenerative agriculture goes above and beyond organic farming. The ultimate goal is the development of resilient and sustainable agricultural systems that can deal with the effects of climate change.

Regenerative agriculture and organic farming share a common set of values, including an emphasis on the importance of good soils to successful and sustainable farming. Crop rotation, cover crops, and composting are some of the methods advocated by these people to improve soil fertility, structure, and biological activity. Preservation and promotion of a wide variety of plant and animal life on and around farms is an aim of both organic and regenerative farming practices. Pest and disease management, pollination, and ecosystem stability are all bolstered by biodiversity. Both methods encourage using less or no man- made chemicals, such as those found in pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Organic matter, compost, and biological pest management are just some of the natural inputs that these farmers rely on. Water, energy, and material resource conservation are fundamental to both organic farming and regenerative agriculture. To lessen agriculture’s impact on the environment, they advocate for methods including water management, efficient irrigation systems, and the use of renewable energy. Strong relationships and collaborations between farmers, customers, and local communities are prioritized by these methods. All along the agricultural supply chain, they are committed to fair trade, social equity, and transparency. Farmers may grow healthy, resilient, and sustainable farming systems by applying the holistic concepts of regenerative agriculture to conventional organic farming practices. In addition to strengthening the bond between agriculture and its natural surroundings, these methods also improve soil quality, lessen negative effects on the environment, increase biodiversity, and result in more nutritionally dense food.

During the last decade organic agriculture has emerged as a dynamic alternate farming system. This has been necessitated as a consequence of resource degradation because of to achieving high yields in various crops to meet the increasing demand of food by the burgeoning population. These have resulted in change in soil structure, imbalance in soil micro-organisms and organic matter, resistance among various weeds to weedicides, increased salinity, sodicity and have affected the water holding capacity of the soil and brought in health and environmental problems. Organic farming is a specified form of diversified agriculture that not only aims to produce nutritious food of high quality but also lead to the generation of more income and employment opportunities for rural population. In true sense, organic farming is a production system which avoids or largely excludes the use of synthetic fertilizers, growth regulators, livestock feed additives and pesticides. Moreover, it relies on agronomic management practices like crop rotation, crop residues, animal manures, legumes, green manures, off-farming organic wastes and aspect of biological pest control to maintain soil productivity.

The inability of Indian agriculture to meet the demand for food in the country during the two and half decades immediately after independence had been a matter of concern at those times. The system of our agriculture based on the traditional knowledge and practices handed down from generation to generation could not produce enough to feed the increasing population. The ignominy of our dependence for food on the western developed nations and the politics of food aid practiced by them added to our determination to be self-sufficient in food production by modernizing agriculture. The green revolution fulfilled our aspirations by changing India from a food importing to a food exporting nation. However, the achievement was at the expense of ecology and environment and to the detriment of the well-being of the people.

1. INTRODUCTION

India is traditionally rich on agricultural knowledge. Presently modern farming is not sustainable in consonance with economics, ecology, equity, energy and socio–cultural dimensions. Indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides to boost the yields have resulted in various environmental and health hazards along with socio–economic problems. The agricultural production has continued to increase, but the trend in productivity has started declining. The agricultural scientist’s and farming community whole heartedly aim at an alternative sustainable farming system which will be ecologically sound, economically viable and socially acceptable. The answer to the problem lies in refining our own traditional practices based on natural and organic farming methods offering several safe, feasible and cost effective solutions.

The term ‘Organic farming’, a system of farming is one which avoids synthetic fertilizers but rely upon crop rotation also using crop residues, animal manures, legumes, green manures, biofertilizers, organic wastes etc., to maintain the soil fertility and increase productivity. This system enables the nutrients leaching from perennial wood and vegetation and help to maintain organic matter and protect the soil from surface erosion. The world wide awareness for adopting organic farming has paved way for streamlining the production technology and certification by adopting the specified crop production practices. Organic farming practices in agriculture and animal husbandry are native to East Asian countries, like India and China. In China a strong national movement for animal waste recycling is in vogue, minimizing the use of inorganic fertilizers (Xu, 2000), while in our country specific crop production practices are developed in isolation and adopted locally.

The trend of use of chemicals and industrial inputs in intensive farming is increasing which resulted in soil health deterioration and increased environmental pollution which causes a great concern all over the world. Therefore an emphasis on the need to use the organics and other byproducts of agriculture and industry is emerging. Fortunately, the country is already rich with left over crop residues (185 million tonnes) but its use presently is limited. Apart from crop residues, there is an enormous quantity of cattle wastes out of which sixty per cent of the used for fuel purpose in rural areas.

Green revolution technologies such as greater use of synthetic agrochemicals like fertilizers and pesticides, adoption of nutrient-responsive, high-yielding varieties of crops, greater exploitation of irrigation potentials etc. has boosted the production output in most cases. However, continuous use of these high energy inputs indiscriminately now leads to decline in production and productivity of various crops as well as deterioration of soil health and environments.

1. Introduction to Organic Farming

Definition and Principles of Organic Farming

Organic farming is not merely a set of agricultural practices; it is a profound philosophy that seeks to redefine humanity’s relationship with the land. At its core, organic farming is an intricate dance with nature, a commitment to fostering biodiversity, ecological balance, and sustainability.

Defining Organic Farming

Organic farming is a departure from conventional agricultural methods that rely heavily on synthetic inputs. It is an agricultural system that embraces natural and traditional approaches to cultivation.

Organic farming represents a return to traditional agricultural practices that emphasize sustainability, environmental stewardship, and health. This article explores the principles and practices of organic farming, its historical context, and its benefits and challenges. By examining case studies and the global impact of organic agriculture, this comprehensive discussion highlights how organic farming contributes to soil health, biodiversity, and food security while addressing consumer demands for healthier food and environmental protection. It also considers future directions and innovations in organic farming, emphasizing its role in building a sustainable and resilient food system

In last few decades awareness about social and environmental issues has been increased. Agriculture is one of basic enterprise that has major role in these two issues . Organic agriculture is one of the agriculture production system that not only supportive to the environment but also sensitive to the social issues like employment, health, migration etc. Definitions given by two international organizations also verify this concept.

Introduction

Agriculture is an important sector in Indian economy, 58 per cent of India’s population depends on agriculture for their livelihood. Agriculture is main victim of climate change, it can disrupt availability, accessibility and quality of food. Moreover, increase in temperature, reduction in ground water availability, f looding and salinity are the major limiting factors in sustaining and increasing vegetable productivity. As a result of this crop physiology and production both are affected. Organic farming can help to tackle climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and amount of nitrogen fertilizer applied to farming land. In India we have advantage that the agricultural techniques we practiced before green revolution in our country is eco-friendly and today also it is somehow it is in memories of our older and younger farmer generation. Principle of sustainable farming is the base of organic farming. According to OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) “Sustainable agro-ecosystem - agricultural and food systems are economically viable, meet society’s need for food assurance, while they retain and enhance natural resources and environmental quality for future generations” it is very clear from the definition that organic farming mostly emphasizes the environmental aspect and it includes.

Organic farming is one of the several approaches found to meet the objectives of sustainable agriculture. It is often associated and sometimes confused with
‘sustainable farming’. However, policy and ethics-wise ‘organic farming’ is different from ‘sustainable farming’. Organic farming is based on various laws
and certification programmes whereas sustainable agriculture is the practice of farming using principles of ecology.

Agriculture is undoubtedly the largest livelihood provider in rural India. As we enter a new post WTO Scenario and IT revolution, new inventions are happening day by day in every sphere. Agriculture is not culture now, it is agri business! Agriculture constitutes over 25% of India’s GDP. In recent years, much emphasis has been given by the Ministry of Agriculture on commercializing agricultural production in the country. Adequate production and distribution of food has become a high priority and global concern. In the fast changing world and increasing competition in a globalized economy, there is a need for exploiting the available resources to the maximum level and use of best technologies available world over, to cope up with domestic demand of food and also to target export market. This will be particularly relevant in South India, where farmers grow a number of crops, but have technical constraints in enhancing production and productivity because of inadequate exposure to high technology & inputs coupled with advanced production practices, logistics and marketing. In addition, shortage of labour is a major concern for progressive farmers of South India who are ready to offer more wages to labourers. Therefore, they are forced to become machinery-dependent in their farm operations. As a result, Southern India is emerging as one of the hottest destinations as well as a strong market with buying potential for farm machinery and equipment.

19.1 DEFINITION OF ORGANIC FARMING

1.According to IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement), Organic Farming definition includes all agricultural system that promote the environmentally, socially and ecologically sound production system of food and fibres. IFOAM stresses and supports the development of self- supporting system on local and regional level.

2.As per the definition of the USDA study team on organic farming “organic farming is a system which avoids or largely excludes the use of synthetic inputs (such as fertilizers, pesticides, hormones, feed additives etc) and to the maximum extent feasible rely upon crop rotations, crop residues, animal manures, off-farm organic waste, mineral grade rock additives and biological system of nutrient mobilization and plant protection”.

3.In another definition FAO suggested that “Organic agriculture is a unique production management system which promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity, and this is accomplished by using on-farm agronomic, biological and mechanical methods in exclusion of all synthetic off-farm inputs”.

The word ‘organic’, means ‘living’, ‘earth friendly’ or ‘of plant or animal origin’. Organic farming is a very native concept of India and has been followed from ancient times. Soil is a living entity and the focus in organic farming is the soil itself. Of course, it is based on understanding the ways of nature. All organic waste from agriculture and other sources is recycled to enrich the soil. Thus, the health of the soil and its structure is maintained. The natural microorganisms of the soil are protected and nurtureed.

Organic farming is primarily aimed at cultivating the land and raising crops in such a way to keep the soil alive and in good health by use of organic wastes and other biological means of sustainable production in an ecofriendly pollution free environment.

As per the definition of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) study team; organic farming is a system which avoids or largely excludes the use of synthetic inputs namely fertilizers, pesticides, hormones, feed additives, etc. and to the maximum extent feasible rely upon crop rotations, crop residues, animal manures, off farm organic waste, mineral grade rock additives and biological system of nutrient mobilization and plant protection.

1. Who is often referred to as the father of organic farming?

a) J.I. Rodale

c) Rudolf Steiner

b) Sir Albert Howard

 d) Rachel Carson

2. Which organization is responsible for setting and regulating organic farming standards in the United States?

a) United Nations (UN)

 b) World Health Organization (WHO)

 c) United States Department of Agriculture (USDa)

 d) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

1. Introduction

The global aquaculture industry has experienced rapid growth in recent decades, driven by increasing demand for seafood, declining wild fish stocks, and advancements in aquaculture technology. However, along with this expansion comes a heightened awareness of the environmental and social impacts associated with conventional aquaculture practices. Concerns about water pollution, habitat destruction, and the use of antibiotics and chemicals have led consumers to seek more sustainable alternatives. In response to this demand, organic fish farming has emerged as a viable solution that aligns with principles of environmental conservation, animal welfare, and food quality.

Organic fish farming represents a paradigm shift in aquaculture, emphasizing natural and holistic approaches to production while minimizing negative environmental impacts. Unlike conventional methods that often rely on intensive stocking densities, artificial feeds, and chemical inputs, organic fish farming prioritizes ecological balance, biodiversity preservation, and sustainable resource management. By integrating organic principles into aquaculture operations, farmers can mitigate environmental degradation, enhance ecosystem resilience, and produce seafood that meets stringent organic standards.

Flower growing, once used to be a gardener’s activity has today transformed into an astounding business proportion. Globally, more than 140 countries are involved in cultivation of floriculture crops. The global floriculture trade stands at US $ 60 billion with an annual growth rate of 10-15%. But the picture is not all that rosy. The extensive use of pesticides especially in greenhouse grown crops is threatening workers health and safety, besides disturbing environment and may also affect consumers health.

Gaston Dorren and Niala Maharaj, authors of “The Game of the Rose” noted that floriculture consumes more pesticides than any other agricultural sector. Floral workers suffer the brunt of the trade’s pesticide use. About 60% of Colombian flower workers (the sprayers and handlers) suffer from headaches, nausea, impaired vision, rashes and asthma, reports Pesticide Action Network, North America. A study published by the Netherlands ‘Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment’, reports that Dutch floral workers are exposed to pesticide concentrations of up to 60 times the amount considered safe.

Dr. Marion Moses of the San Francisco-based Pesticide Education Center says that many of the pesticides in use are highly toxic. “One of the chemicals widely used in greenhouses for flowers is temik (aldicarb), and that has caused serious problems”. Methyl bromide, an ozone destroyer and a category I acute toxin, among the most dangerous toxic substances known, is also heavily used in Latin America and the U.S. on flower crops. According to a 1997 EWG (Environmental Working Group) study, California-grown roses have 1000 times the level of cancer causing pesticides as comparable food products. Consumers are buying roses that, toxicity levels suggest, should be handled by workers wearing protective gear. Testing the leaves and petals of roses from California, New Hampshire, Colorado, Canada and Colombia, EWG found two probable human carcinogens, three Category I pesticides (the most hazardous) and three neurotoxins at up to 50 times the amount allowed in food.

Food and Agriculture Organization defines organic agriculture is a unique production system which promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity, and this is accomplished by using on-farm agronomic, biological and mechanical methods in exclusion of all synthetic off-farm inputs.

The beauty of organic agriculture production is dependency three elements namely soil, plants and animals. It is also called animal agriculture in which, animal depends on plants, plants depends on soil and soil depends on animals for their fertile life.

Goats are the backbone of the Indian rural economy as it helps in sustaining the livelihood of rural poor in difficult terrains. The value output from the sheep and goat meat sector has been worth Rs123177 crores during 2020 2021 (Central Statistical Organisation, GoI ). India has diverse small ruminant genetic resources with 44 sheep and 37 goat breeds registered with the ICAR National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal. The goat population has colossally increased by 215% (47.2 vs 148.9 million) from 1951 to 2019. Of late, the last two censuses revealed that the goat population in the country increased by 10.1% (135.17 to 148.88 million). The goats are 27.8% of the total livestock population in the country. Their contribution to total meat production is 13.63%. The goat and sheep contributed 1467 million kg of meat in 2021-22 (BAHS, 2022). Goat meat is increasing and is mostly preferred in North and Western India. Meat consumption in India is showing an upward trend but still, there is a lot of scope for improvement in per capita availability. The global Covid-19 pandemic altered the food preferences of the consumer with more demand for safe foods produced under the natural system. The organic food production system may be aptly suited and has potential to meet out demands of consumers. This change in the consumer attitude is gradually increasing the scope and opening more avenues for organic food production and marketing. Food safety legislation in different countries is also working towards improving the safety standards of food and, at the same time, consumers are increasingly willing to pay for quality foods as their disposable incomes rise.

India is bestowed with huge livestock population reared under diverse production systems and agro-climatic conditions. Livestock sector is great importance for the sustainability of rural economies and many ecosystems. The economic importance of livestock activity is reflected by the weight of the agricultural sector in the national gross domestic product. The share of livestock sector to the national GDP has increased more than 56% over the span of ten years to 6.17% in 2020-21 from 3.94% in 2010-11. The contribution of the livestock sector, mean while, to total agriculture GVA has increased to 30.87 per cent from 20 per cent during the corresponding period. The livestock sector employs about 8.8% of the population and provides livelihood to two third of rural communities in India.

India occupies first position in terms of goat population and milk production. Since ancient times goat milk has traditionally been known for its medicinal properties and has recently gained importance in human health due to its proximity to human milk for easy digestibility and it’s all round health promoting traits. The goats are also important for chevon production; the most preferred and relished meat in India. As per 20th Livestock Census, the total population of goats in the country is estimated at 148.88 million numbers. Goat milk has continued to play an important role in human nutrition in the area acknowledged as the cradle of modern civilization (Hatziminaoglou and Boyazoglu, 2004). Goat milk is having better digestibility, alkalinity, buffering capacity and certain therapeutic values in medicine and human nutrition in comparison to cow’s or human milk. Goat milk is considered the best milk for infants because of predominance of smaller fat globules causing faster lipase activity which results in easy digestibility of goat milk (Chandan et al.,1992).

Organic cultivation is a deep rooted cultivation tradition, which had been practiced in many parts of the world, before the advent of the practice of use of chemicals.

After the green revolution there has been exponential usage of chemicals in agriculture, right from planting to harvesting. Chemicals are used in the form of nutrient inputs or for plant protection against pests, diseases, weeds and keeping deficiencies at bay. Nevertheless, after the awareness regarding the detrimental effect of chemicals on soil, climate and human health, there has been a lot of contemplation on substituting the chemicals with the organic alternatives. Growing crops using organic inputs is known as ‘organic cultivation’. Organic cultivation is a sustainable form of cultivation where a proper balance is maintained and management of plant nutrition, pests, weeds and diseases is done in a sustainable manner, keeping the soil microflora intact and active. It does not release any chemical gases in the atmosphere, does not make the soil acidic and the soil does not lose its structure and texture. Contrary to chemical farming, where over a time period, the soil quality, texture and structure is lost, in organic practices, the soil texture, quality and structure improves over time, the plants become strong and the quality of the produce is improved. Other than organic inputs, organic farming relies on some sustainable practices like using native germplasm, crop rotations with legumes, green manuring, mulching, inter cropping, mixed cropping, incorporation of farm and animal waste compost. These simple age old practices build to organic content in the soil and elevate the soil’s efficiency to make nutrients and water to the plants. The soil microflora and earthworms become biologically active, efficient and exponentially proliferate. The goal of organic cultivation is to get maximum produce from the soil in such a manner that the soil, air and water are clean and protected.

Manure is the organic material derived from animal, human and plant residues which contain plant nutrients in complex forms. Manures are used as source of plant nutrients. They release nutrient after their decomposition. They are applied in large quantities

Advantages of Organic Manures

• Organic manure provides all the nutrients that are required by plants but in limited quantities.
• It helps in maintaining C:N ratio in the soil and also increases the fertility and productivity of the soil.
• It improves the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil.
• It improves both the structure and texture of the soils.
• It increases the water holding capacity of the soil.
• Due to increase in the biological activity, the nutrients that are in the lower depths are also made available to the plants through manures.
• It acts as mulch, thereby minimizing the evaporation losses of moisture from the soil.

Globally livestock sector is changing rapidly in response to globalization and increasing demand for quality foods of animal origin. Animal husbandry is the backbone of rural economy of our country. The value of output from livestock sector is about 29 percent of the total value of output (GDP) of the agriculture and allied sectors. The livestock sector has been contributing over 5% to total GDP. India ranks first in milk production which accounts for more than 15 percent of total world output and 40 percent of Asia’s total production. It continues to grow at about 4 percent per annum far exceeding the global average of 1-2 percent. Further, the manure from animals provides a good source of organic matter for improving soil fertility and crop yields. The gobar gas from the dung is used as fuel for domestic purposes. The surplus fodder and agricultural by-products are gainfully utilized for feeding the animals. Almost all draught power for farm operations and transportation is supplied by bullocks. Indian animal husbandry practices are based on minimal use of off-farm inputs and on management practices that restore, maintain and enhance ecological harmony. This principle also holds good for organic farming. The primary goal of organic agriculture is to optimize the health and productivity of interdependent communities of soil life, plants, animals and people (NOSB, 1995). Organic agriculture is an ecological production management system that promotes and enhances biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity.

1. Introduction

In India, though organic crop production and certification system is reasonably well established in India, the organic livestock and poultry sector is in its budding stage. Organizations such as APEDA, FSSAI and BIS along with research establishments like ICAR- National Meat Research Institute are now putting serious efforts to establish the protocols and promote organic livestock production and certification in India. As a result, in the last few years, livestock farmers are gradually getting encouraged to take up organic production and around 3000 farmers mostly from Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh have taken up organic dairy, sheep and poultry farming. Export of organic milk and ghee from India to different countries has just begun and is expected to grow very fast in volumes and revenues in the years to come.

With increasing demand from consumers for organically produced and certified food products in the country, organic agriculturein India is growing steadily as more and more farmers are adopting organic practices to meet the increasing demand.. Starting with organic tea and spices, it’s grown to organic f lour, breakfast cereals, fruits, vegetables and many more, the number of food categories sold as organic is growing rapidly in India. Of late, the consumer demand for organically produced livestock products like milk, eggs and meat is also on the rise.

Domestic organic food products market in India is witnessing a growth rate of around 20% CAGR in the recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to consumer awareness about the quality of foods and contributed to the growth of organic food market in the country. As a result, informal markets for organic products are getting established to serve the niche consumers and simultaneously, producer to consumer market is also gaining momentum. Local markets are also now vending perishable organic foods like fruits and vegetables. During 2020-21 in India, there were around 16 lakh organic producers under NPOP production system producing 34.9 lakh tons of organic products in 43.3 lakh hectares of land including 16.8 lakh hectares under wild harvest. During this period, 8.88 lakh tons of organic products worth Rs.7078 crores were exported from India. Under Participatory Guaranty System (PGS) in India, as of September 2021, there are about 42 thousand organic farmer groups comprising of around 12 lakh farmers producing organic products in 75 lakh hectares of land. Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh are the major organic production states in the country and the major commodities produced are oil seeds, fibre, sugar, cereals, millets, spices and condiments. USA, EU, Canada and Australia are major export destinations of Indian organic products and the major organic products exported from India are processed foods, oil seeds, cereals, millets, spices and tea.

Introduction

Sustainable development has caught the imagination and action all over the world for more than a decade and sustainable agriculture is necessary to attain the goal of sustainable development. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), sustainable agriculture “is the successful management of resources for agriculture to satisfy changing human needs while maintaining or enhancing the quality of environment and conserving natural resources”. All definitions of sustainable agriculture lay great emphasis on maintaining an agriculture growth rate, which can meet the demand for food of all living things without draining the basic resources.

Organic Animal Husbandry happens to be an emerging area which requires attention given its growing potential for domestic as well as export market. The start-ups including farmers engaged in organic farming and entrepreneurs need support in terms of information, technical knowledge, financial, incubation, hand-holding and marketing of organic animal products. Organic animal husbandry has been defined as a system of livestock production that promotes the use of organic and biodegradable inputs from the ecosystem deliberately avoiding the use of synthetic inputs such as drugs, feed additives and genetically engineered breeding inputs, while ensuring the welfare of animals. There are four principles of organic farming viz; principle of ecology, principle of health, principle of fairness, and principle of care, which organic systems must always take into consideration. In order to achieve the animal welfare, environmental protection, resource-use sustainability and other objectives, certain key principles are adhered to under organic livestock production systems. The organic livestock & poultry standards have been notified by APEDA under National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP). All operations related to organic livestock including goat & poultry production are to be governed by these standards in India.

Word manure derived from French word ‘Manoeuvrer, means to manipulate, to work, to produce crop.

2.1. Sources of organic wastes

Cattle shed wastes-dung, urine and slurry from biogas plants.

Human habitation wastes-night soil, human urine, town refuse, sewage, sludge and sullage.

Poultry litter, droppings of sheep and goat.

Slaughter house wastes-bone meal, meat meal, blood meal, horn and hoof meal, fish wastes.

Byproducts of agroindustries-oil cakes, bagasse and press mud, fruit and vegetable processing wastes.

Farmyard Manure is the manure prepared by using the mixture of dung and urine soaked litter by microorganisms.

Good farmyard manure is one

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Soil fertility can be considered to be a measure of the soil’s ability to sustain satisfactory crop growth, both in the short and longer-term. Organic farming recognizes the soil as being central to a sustainable farming system. It could be argued that organically managed soils require a higher level of baseline fertility because shortfalls cannot be made up by applications of soluble fertilizers. Soil fertility is determined by a set of interactions between the physical and chemical environments of the system and by biological activity. Organic matter is linked intrinsically to soil fertility, because it is important in maintaining good soil physical conditions (e.g. soil structure, aeration and water holding capacity) and is an important nutrient reserve. Organic matter contains most of the soil reserve of N and large proportions of other nutrients such as phosphorus and sulphur.

Word manure derived from French ‘Manoeuvrer, means to manipulate, to work, to produce crop.

11.1. Sources of organic wastes

Cattle shed wastes, dung, urine and slurry from biogas plants.

Human habitation wastes-night soil, human urine, town refuse, sewage, sludge and sullage.

Poultry jitter, droppings of sheep and goat.

Slaughterhouse wastes-bone meal, meat meal, blood meal, horn and hoof meal, fish wastes.

Byproducts of agro industries-oil cakes, bagasse and press mud, fruit and vegetable processing wastes etc.

Before the discovery of chemical fertilizer in early 20^th century, organic manures and growing of legumes were the ways of replenishing soil fertility. The only other way was leaving land fallow for a few years before its re-cultivation, a practice followed in shifting cultivation (jhuming) (Garbyal, 1999). This was also true for India, where although the ?rst single superphosphate plant was set up in 1906 in Ranipet (Tamil Nadu), the real use of fertilizer started with the manufacture of urea, the ?rst plant for which was set up in 1959 at Sindri (Bihar) (Tandon, 2014). Organic manures could meet crop-nutrient needs in early days because the average grain yield of most cereals was about 1.5–2.0 t ha^–1, while the average yield of pulses was 0.5–0.75 t ha^–1. However, the crop production scenario changed rapidly after the introduction of dwarf, high-yielding varieties of wheat from Mexico, which led to the “Green Revolution” (Swaminathan, 2013). This was followed by the development of semi-dwarf, high-yielding varieties of rice and hybrids of maize, sorghum and pearl millet. These varieties/ hybrids of cereals needed 100–150 kg N ha^–1 in one growing season, and this could be met only by urea or other N fertilizers; organic manures had no chance and their use became almost nil over a period of next 25 years or so. Well-off young farmers cannot even think of making manure heaps or compost pits, the job is too hard and not a clean one. However, what is ignored is the fact, that organic manures not only supply plant nutrients but also build up soil organic matter, which improves soil physical properties, helps in storing moisture and is the elixir of life for the soil biota (Lal, 2014). A large numbers of reports are available on the effect of adding organic manures and crop residues on improving soil physical (Hati et al., 2007; Brar et al., 2015) and chemical and biological properties of soil (Prasad et al., 1999; Prasad and Mishra, 2001;Sharma et al., 2009; Prasad et al. 2014). Thanks for the organic farming (Prasad, 2005), the interest in organic manures and composts has increased in India and it is now a sought after material. However, it has not entered the main stream of crop production.

The market of organic products is growing globally every year. This organic market expansion makes it possible for farmers to reap the benefits of a trade with relatively high price premiums. Organic farming is carried on in almost all countries of the world. The share of organic farms in overall farmland and in terms of numbers of holdings is growing continuously. The market for organic products is also growing very rapidly, not only in Europe, North America and Japan, where the largest markets are to be found, but also in many emerging economies in transition. In India, an organic movement is now emerging on different levels i.e. producer groups, trainers and advisors, certification bodies and processors and traders.

5.1. Organic matter

In sandy soil, the sticky and slimy organic materials cement the sand particles together to form aggregates.

In clayey soil, it modifies the properties of clay by reducing its cohesiveness and making clay more crumby.

Introduction

Soil forms the base of the lithosphere on earth and is a fundamental and irreplaceable versatile three dimensional dynamic system that supports majority of terrestrial plant and animal life on earth. This soil system contains mineral (sand, slit and clay forming basic soil structure) and organic matter as well as marginal air and water contents. The soil organic matter content of the soil system constitutes every fraction of matter in various stages of decomposition that once was associated with the body, body parts, exudates, tissues and cells of living organisms including plants, animals and microorganisms. It is the product of continuous cycling of the compounds synthesized by autotrophic plants among the three kingdoms viz microbes, plants and animals. The decomposition of the organic residues in soil is performed primarily by the resident soil microflora termed as microbial decomposers; though initially the larger and complex organic material is broken down, devoured upon, chewed, regurgitated and transformed into smaller bits by larger soil faunal forms (earthworms, beetles, springtails, and collembola, the macro (large) to mesofauna) on which soil microbial forms could act upon.

Organic meat food products are choice products for health conscious people. These are the products produced mainly in most natural way without using fertilizers, pesticides and growth regulators in their feed and fodders. In addition, meat animals are also reared without growth hormones, antibiotics drugs etc. and grazing of the animals is a prerequisite in organic farming system.

The term organic farming was first time used by Lord Northbourne. The term organic farming was derived from his concept of “the farm as organism”. It is a holistic, ecologically balanced approach to farming. In 1991, the European Commission formulated the first government system to regulate organic labelling. In India, standards for organic agriculture were announced in May 2001 and the National Programme on Organic Production (NPOP) is administered under the Ministry of Commerce. The concept of organic meat food products has been emphasized now a day due to animal welfare point of view, consumer’s conscious ness, less residue level of chemicals, antibiotics and drugs, Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), Foot and mouth disease (FMD), genetically modified food etc.

Organic meat food products as a whole are dependent on the life stages of the livestock like its origin, feeding, housing, health, breeding, transportation and slaughter. The other factors accounting for organic foods are its production, harvesting, preservation and processing. Inspite of low growth rate of organic red meat globally, growth in dairy, egg and poultry is increasing day by day. At present 1.2 million hectares (0.6%) of Indian land is producing organic products (Willer and Kelcher, 2011).

Medicinal and aromatic plants constitute a precious resource for mankind. Since time immemorial these plants have been put to medicinal use by Hakims, Vaidas, Ayurvedic practioners and of course the common man (Gupta et al. 2016). It is because these plants possess a lot of qualities for curing the most common or dreaded diseases without any side effects (Gupta et al. 2016). Unfortunately, with the onslaught of human population explosion, industrialization, fertilization and deforestation, the rich medicinal plants wealth has suffered a massive damage. A large number of medicinal plants are now at the verge of extinction which requires their preservation.

India which stands blessed well vast medicinal plants diversity is estimated to have about 30,000 different plant species world over having accepted medicinal value in Ayurveda, Unani, Homeopathy, Allopathy, Tibetan etc. In fact, out of the 18 hot spots in the world with regard to occurrence of medicinal plants two are confined to India. These two hot spots are represented by the Eastern and the North western Himalayas, and the western Ghats with very high degree of endemism. These are indeed the treasure house of about 30,000 or around 45,000 medicinal and aromatic plant species pertaining to medicinal culture (Gupta et al. 2016). Out of these nearly 6000-7500 plant species have been very much exploited for the last 5,000 years traditional system to medicines and are likely to extinct.

Realizing that nematodes cannot be eliminated, and that we must live with them, the overall goal is to keep the population density as low as possible. The economic threshold is the density of nematodes where the losses incurred exceed the cost of nematode management. It is not advisable to depend on a single method to control nematodes. Efficient management requires judicious and careful integration of several which will result in reduction of nematode populations. Important components of non chemical methods of nematode management program are considered in this chapter.

17.1. Organic Amendments

Manure and fertilizer applications are essential part of growing any crop. Besides supplying required essential nutrients theyhelp in many ways directly or indirectly by suppressing harmful organisms including phytonematodes. The use of organic amendments against nematodes was demonstrated by Linford et al., in as early as 1938. FYM and cattle urine have found to reduce nematode population. Biogas plant waste slurry was found to be effective for nematode management. Compost of water hyacinth, oilcakes, cellulose amendments like sawdust, wheat straw, rice husk, rice hull ash, green manuring with legumes, green leaf incorporation are useful to keep nematode populations low. Non - edible oilcakes like those of neem, karanj, mahua, caster, cotton as well as edible oilcakes groundnut, mustard sesame, coconut have been recommended at 2 - 2.5 t/ha for reduction of root knot and other nematode population in soil. Miscellaneous substances like decaffeinated tea waste, rice hull ash, chicken manure, tannery and food and fruit processing waste, market and domestic organic refuse, dead vegetation and crop stalks, wood shaving, etc. have been recommended for root knot nematode management. Castor leaves (40g/kg) along with NPK at 75:25:37.5 kg/ha achieved reduction of M. javanica population on tomato.

27.1 Introduction
Processed organic food typically consists of solely organic ingredients. If there are any non-organic components, a specified proportion of the food’s plant and animal ingredients must be organic, and any non-organic ingredients must meet specific agricultural standards. Organic foods should not contain artificial additives and are usually processed using fewer synthetic methods and materials, avoiding practices like chemical ripening, food irradiation, and genetic modification. While synthetic pesticides are prohibited, non-synthetic pesticides are permitted. Milk from cows—or any other animal—serves as a useful environmental indicator for measuring pollutants and pesticides because substances consumed by the animal end up in the milk it produces. If contaminants are present in the grass, they will ultimately be found in the milk.

27.2 Beyond these four main factors have led to the increasing interest by farmers and consumers in organic dairy farming
1. Consumer concerns about food safety and animal welfare
2. Overproduction of food (perceived as low in quality)
3. The environmental effects of intensive farming

Paddy is cultivated about 45 m ha in India, less than 1% is under organic cultivation.

16.1. Varieties

Good quality fine varieties like Ponni, Super ponni, insect and disease resistant varities must be selected for getting higher yield and returns.

16.2. Seeds

Organically produced seeds only must be used.

16.3. Seed Treatment

For 1 kg of seeds 20 g Azospirillum, Pseudomonas and 10 g Phospobacteria must be used with rice gruel.

Panchagavya spray @ 1% for treating the seeds.

Introduction

The hilly states in north eastern India are not only famous for their forest wealth and awesome wild assets. These states are also known for their track record in harvesting specific crops and fruits. Some of the iconic ones are like, “Assam tea” which is famous in and outside India and popularity of “Khasi mandarin” is also well known. The small landlocked state Tripura produces quality pineapples in abundant amounts, where cv. Queen is popular among the growers. Sikkim and other states of north eastern region of India is known for their Organic Farming techniques, which is mostly attributed the nature of hill farming on this region. North-East is rich in horticultural aspect viz., f loriculture with a rich variety of medicinal plants grown there along with various fruits and vegetables. An analysis of NSSO survey data on cultivation practices shows that the North-East hill states have retained traditional practices and show an inclination towards organic agriculture that is harnessed for the development of the region with ecological benefits.

1. Introduction
Organic polymers are large, chain-like molecules made up of repeating structural units (monomers) that are primarily carbon-based. These polymers are found both in nature and can be synthesized in labs, and they form the basis of many materials we use daily. Here are some main types of organic polymers (Harris, F. W., 1981).
2. Natural Organic Polymers
These are polymers found in nature. Examples include:
• Proteins: Polymers made up of amino acid monomers, serving as the building blocks for tissues and enzymes in organisms.
• Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA, which are composed of nucleotide monomers, store genetic information in cells.
• Polysaccharides: Carbohydrate polymers like cellulose (found in plant cell walls), starch (energy storage in plants), and glycogen (energy storage in animals).
• Natural Rubber: Derived from latex in plants, primarily from the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis).
3. Synthetic Organic Polymers
These are human-made polymers produced through chemical synthesis.
Common examples include:
• Polyethylene: A plastic used in bags and containers, made from ethylene monomers.
• Polystyrene: Used in packaging, insulation, and disposable cutlery, made from styrene monomers.
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): A durable polymer used in pipes, cables, and construction, made from vinyl chloride monomers.
• Nylon and Polyester: Common synthetic fi bers used in textiles.

Organic farming has undergone rapid growth in recent years across various agricultural and livestock sectors, including poultry production. The escalation of health concerns stemming from the presence of numerous medications and pesticide residues in conventional products has underscored the importance of ensuring the quality of egg and meat products. In this global context, there is a notable surge in demand for organic meat, prompting nations to explore organic poultry production.

Organic food production is as much a state of mind as it is a production system. The organic farmer must understand how everything is interrelated and how one set of circumstances will influence other factors in how the plant grows. A strong, healthy plant is much more important in an organic system then a conventional system. A two to three year leaning curve must be accepted by anyone intending to switch from conventional to organic farming. What works one year may fail the next.

Pulses are an important source of proteins. One hundred grams of pulses contain about 25-32 grams of proteins and several amino acids which are not made by the human body (Sidhu, 2015). These are the staple food both for vegetarians and non-vegetarians of the country. India is not only the largest consumer of the pulses in the world but it is also the largest producer and importer. The global production of pulses is about 70 million tonnes, of which India’s share is around 25 percent.

The consumption of pulses is historically part and parcel of Indian culture. However, over a period of time, the availability of pulses has declined from69 gram per capita per day in 1961 to 51 gram in 1971 and 38grams in 1981. Marginally it arose to 42 gram in 1991 which already declined to 30 gram in 2001. The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was started by the union Government for pulses during 2007. It did not result in a significant increase in the output because pulses are grown only in 16 per cent area which is irrigated. The area under cultivation for pulses varied from 23 million hectare in 2009- 2010 and 26 million hectares 2021-2022 and production was14.6 mt. to 28.9 mt. At present the availability of pulses is about 42 g per capita per day.

Summary

The use of organic resources in modern agriculture implies the production of crops through organic farming without doing any damage to the environment. Synthetic chemicals are never used in organic farming. This avoids having much pressure on nature’s non-renewable resources used in farming activities. In this unit, we shall discuss many organic resources, their quality and management within ISFM.

Sources of plant nutrients include residual soil nutrients, crop residues, green manures, animal manures and biosolids, biologically-fixed nitrogen and manufactured fertilizers. Crops use plant nutrient from all sources but the nutrient elements must be transformed into the ionic forms before being taken by plants. The amount of nutrients provided by different sources varies between and within agro-ecosystems. Integrated plant nutrient management identifies and uses all available sources of plant nutrients

Rose (Rosa centifolia Linn) belongs to the family Rosaceae is known as flower of love which is cultivated throughout the world. The traditionally grown rose f lowers are fragile wild, bloom only for a limited period. They are found in a few colours of red, pink, deep crimson vis-a-vis white colour. However, with the development of the clonal technology, tissue culture and hybridization, a wide variety of roses can be grown having different colours, fragrances, blooms and shapes. It is point to mention that from the 200 species of roses originally found there are more than 30,000 varieties available these days.

The cultivation of rose is believed to have started about 5.000 years ago in China. Initially, Romans started to cultivate the rose flower using organic manures for medicinal purposes and then tor aesthetic values. Briefly their medicinal values have been mentioned separately as reported by Gupta et al 2016. It is not until late 8th century that cultivation of roses was introduced into Europe. Unlike Europe and America where rosses have limited flowering period during the summer.

Globally saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is cultivated in regions spanning from the Mediterranean in the west to Kashmir in the east. Countries like Iran, Spain, Italy, India, Greece, Turkey, Afghanistan, Morocco and Azerbaijan harbour suitable climatic and soil conditions required for its growth and harvesting (Mehdi and Reza, 2012). However, the crop is also cultivated on small scales inFrance, Switzerland, Israel, Pakistan, China, Egypt, United Arab Emirates and Japan. Recently its cultivation has been introduced in non-traditional countries like Australia, New Zealand, USA, Argentina and Chile (Fernandez, 2004). Globally, about 85 thousand hectares of land is under saffron cultivation, giving a produce of 288 MT. Iran leads with 90 per cent of total global share for saffron production (Baghalian et al., 2010) and 70% of global export earning a revenue of US$ 51million. India’s global share is about 4.5 per cent in production followed by Greece (2.5%), Morocco (0.9%), Spain (0.8%), Italy and China (0.3% each), Afghanistan (0.2%) and Azerbaijan (0.06%).