Opportunities and Constraints in Organic Farming: an Indian Perspective

Organic farming follows the principle of circular causation and has emerged in response to questions on health, environment and sustainability issues. In this review, we assess the status, opportunities and Csequestration potentials of OF in India. We identify constraints that impede adoption of OF especially for small farm holders who constitute over 70% of farming community in India. With large land area and climate diversity, India has a considerable potential to contribute to C-sequestration. The soil organic carbon (SOC) in cultivated soils is less than 5 mg g compared to 15-20 mg g in uncultivated soils. This available potential of 10-15 mg g soil–C sink could balance net emission from fossil fuel combustion. Although India occupies second position in terms of number of certified organic farms (44,926), it is 13 in terms of area under OF representing only 0.3 % of total agricultural lands. This scenario appears poor compared to many other countries. Farmers apprehension towards OF in India is rooted in non-availability of sufficient organic supplements, bio fertilizers and local market for organic produce and poor access to guidelines, certification and input costs. Capital-driven regulation by contracting firms further discourages small farm holders. An integrated effort is needed from government and nongovernment agencies to encourage farmers to adopt OF as a solution to climate change, health and sustainability issue.