#### Krishi Sakhi Training on Natural Farming Concludes

Udaipur,  Under the National Mission on Natural Farming, a five-day Krishi Sakhi training programme was successfully concluded at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Phaloj, Dungarpur. Sponsored by the Joint Director, Agriculture Extension, Dungarpur, the training was held from 25th to 29th August 2025.

Senior Scientist and Head of KVK, Dr. C.M. Balai, stated that the purpose of the programme was to impart knowledge of natural farming practices to women farmers in rural areas and to empower them as Krishi Sakhis so that they could promote natural farming in their respective villages. During the inaugural session, Dr. Balai highlighted the significant role of women in agriculture and emphasized that “Natural farming is the need of the future, and through training Krishi Sakhis, we are moving towards a sustainable and chemical-free agricultural system.” He elaborated on ecological farming practices ranging from land preparation to harvesting, seed bank establishment and management, soil health and moisture conservation, integrated farming systems, preparation and application of bio-inputs, and the responsibilities of Krishi Sakhis.

Scientist Dr. B.L. Rot provided theoretical and practical insights into natural inputs such as Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, Ghana Jeevamrit, mulching, Waapsa technique, Neem-based formulations, Agni Astra, and natural pest control methods. Practical demonstrations and group discussions were conducted to give participants hands-on experience.

Technical Assistant Kailash Chandra Kharadi explained that natural farming is an ancient agricultural method that preserves the natural fertility of soil without the use of chemical pesticides.

Agriculture Officer Sonu Kala guided participants on the preparation of organic inputs using locally available resources like cow dung, cow urine, jaggery, gram flour, and soil from beneath Peepal or Banyan trees. She also shared methods for seed treatment with Beejamrit and the preparation of natural pesticides. Alongside, success stories of progressive women farmers from different parts of the district were also presented.

As part of field exposure, participants visited the natural farming model farm of state-level award-winning innovative farmer Abbasi Chikhli at Khantwada village. He shared his experiences on integrated farming, including goat rearing, poultry, cattle farming, and natural crop cultivation.

A total of 45 selected Krishi Sakhis participated in this intensive training programme, which aimed at creating grassroots-level ambassadors of natural farming to transform agricultural practices in the region.