Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat has issued a compelling call for India's farmers to embrace natural farming, warning that the continued reliance on chemical agriculture is degrading soil and harming public health. He made these urgent remarks while addressing a gathering at Sahyadri Farm in Mohadi, Dindori taluka, on Thursday.
From Green Revolution to a Toxic Legacy
Speaking more as a concerned farmer than a constitutional head, Governor Devvrat acknowledged the historical role of the Green Revolution in addressing food scarcity. However, he starkly outlined its long-term costs. "The Green Revolution was a necessity of the time. The land was fertile then," he stated, noting that scientists initially recommended 13 kg of urea per hectare.
He contrasted this with today's reality, where fertilizer use has skyrocketed with devastating effects. "This quantity has increased and its adverse effects are now becoming apparent. Microorganisms in the fertile soil have almost become extinct," Devvrat explained, highlighting a critical loss of soil biodiversity.
Health and Environmental Crisis
The Governor directly linked chemical inputs in agriculture to a growing health crisis among the population. He expressed deep concern that residues from fertilizers and pesticides are now commonly found in food grains.
"This is reducing immunity, leading to a rise in the number of patients suffering from serious diseases. This is a matter of concern," he asserted. Furthermore, he pointed to the severe environmental impact, stating that the soil's water retention capacity has significantly decreased due to chemical overuse, exacerbating water scarcity issues.
The Natural Farming Imperative
Presenting a solution, Acharya Devvrat was unequivocal about the only viable path forward. "If we want to avoid all this, we have no alternative, but natural farming," he declared. He emphasized that this shift must be comprehensive and paired with another traditional practice.
"Along with this, cow rearing should also be promoted," he added, underscoring the integral role of cattle in providing natural manure and supporting a holistic, chemical-free agricultural ecosystem.
The dialogue was attended by several dignitaries, including Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal, MP Bhaskar Bhagare, Divisional Commissioner Praveen Gedam, the Governor's Secretary Prashant Narnavare, and District Collector Ayush Prasad, signaling broad institutional interest in this critical agricultural transition.
