There has been much talk in India recently regarding a new farming concept known as zero-budget farming. Government officials and private farmers alike are looking to the method as a way to increase growth and care for the environment. The practice is already in place in some parts of India. Other countries should take note of this new policy, and try to learn from it.
What Is It?
Zero Budget Natural Farming–as labeled by the UN–is a comprehensive approach to agriculture and farming. It consists of two main features: zero use of chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides, and zero subsidies. Unlike most farmers, those who practice zero budget farming plan to do so “off grid”, meaning without any governmental aid. This can be a source of freedom for farmers, or a source of problems.
Karnataka Experiment
This project begun in Karnataka, and now appears set to become part of a broader policy spanning beyond India itself. The Karnataka project began as a cooperation between farmers unions and the local agricultural professor, who had ample experience in the field. Their model was then replicated across Southern India, producing similar levels of success.
Liberalization of the Indian Economy
The process is part of the overall liberalization of the Indian economy. Small farmers are praising this decision, as they rely on their own funds to launch their farms. What appeals to them most is the concept of zero subsidies. Oftentimes, those in a particular business feel that subsidies are simply the government’s way of picking favorites.
The Issue of Debt
The problem with subsides is that they come in two forms. The first type is the loans that are actually given by the government. They must be repaid same as any other loan, but are often given much better rates than the type you could get from the bank.
The second type of subsidy is one that is not repaid, but gives the government sizeable control over your company. Neither type is really favored by businesses, as they provide the government with quite a lot of control while saddling farmers with debt.
Fewer Expenses
There are also fewer expenses with this type of farming. Expenses faced by small farms are almost always related to debt, which is virtually eliminated by zero farming programs. There are also less startup costs, since there are less supplies to purchase by way of herbicides and pesticides. This allows smaller companies to get in on the game, even recruiting future farmers from the city youth to eventually start up their own zero farms.
Criticism
The main criticism of this approach stems from the lack of subsidies, and less government involvement. Those in opposition claim that the system is made to help those who already have enough money to stay afloat, meaning those with less or no money saved would struggle to get into the business.
Conclusion
Zero budget farming is a policy currently being implemented throughout India. The policy is based on eliminating the use of chemicals in farming, as well as eliminating subsidies.