Types of farming practices

Based on agricultural practices and principles, the four types of farming mentioned—chemical, no-chemical (organic), natural, and spiritual—represent a spectrum from intensive industrial production to holistic, nature-based, and consciousness-based approaches.

1. Chemical Farming (Conventional/Industrial)

• Definition: A modern, input-intensive method relying heavily on synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and, often, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to maximize yields.

• Key Features: High use of NPK fertilizers (Urea, DAP), synthetic pest control, monoculture, and mechanized processes.

• Pros/Cons: Offers high short-term productivity but often leads to soil degradation, reduced biodiversity, and potential health hazards.

2. No-Chemical Farming (Organic)

• Definition: A production management system that promotes agro-ecosystem health by excluding synthetic inputs. It allows for the use of external organic, biological, and mineral inputs.

• Key Features: Use of compost, cow dung, vermicompost, and organic pesticides (like neem). Soil tilling is permitted.

• Pros/Cons: Improves soil fertility and reduces pollution, but can have lower initial yields and requires certification.

3. Natural Farming (Chemical-Free/Zero-Budget)

• Definition: A "do-nothing" or "non-chemical" approach that works strictly with nature, aiming for zero budget. It originated from Masanobu Fukuoka and was adapted in India as Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF).

• Key Features: No tillage, no fertilizer (even organic), no weeding, no pesticides, and high-intensity mulching. It relies on locally made, indigenous cow-based preparations (Jeevamrita/Bijamrita).

• Pros/Cons: Restores soil health and reduces costs to zero, but requires deep knowledge of local ecology and may show reduced yields during the initial transition.

4. Spiritual Farming (Vedic/Biodynamic)

• Definition: Farming that considers the farm a living organism, emphasizing the connection between the soil, plants, animals, cosmos, and human consciousness.

• Key Features: Often uses specific astrological calendars (Biodynamic) to determine planting times, uses homeopathic-like preparations (like biodynamic preparations), and promotes conscious stewardship of the land. Examples include Rishi Krishi, Vedic farming, and Yagna Krishi (fire farming).

• Pros/Cons: Highly sustainable and produces nutrient-dense food but is often labor-intensive and harder to scale.

In Dhaanya farms, we use the second method mentioned above. At Dhaanya stores we make sure we partner with farmers who use second and third methods. Moringa powder, Turmeric powder is procured from a farmer who follows third method.