An Overview of Zero Budget Natural Farming: Problems and Prospects in Implementation

In the current agricultural landscape, increase in production cost, decrease in soil productivity, food with pesticide residues, driven by escalating input expenses, are placing a significant financial stress on farmers. In response to this challenge, Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) or Subhash Palekar Natural Farming (SPNF), a farming method promoted by Shri Subhash Palekar, offers a potential solution by emphasizing cost reduction while producing high-quality, safe food. ZBNF gives priority to indigenous cows, utilizing their dung and urine in various preparations. The system is based on four core principles: Beejamrutha (seed treatment), Jeevamrutha (liquid bio-fertilizer), mulching, and Vapsa (moisture conservation), which collectively enhance nutrient availability, create a favorable micro-climate, and protect crops using locally sourced tree leaves. While ZBNF has shown benefits for farmers, particularly in producing safe food for personal consumption, critical questions remain about its broader adoption. Key concerns include the scalability of natural farming among farmers and its implementation in the absence of intensive scientific validation. Addressing these challenges requires further research into both the obstacles and potential pathways for integrating natural farming into mainstream agricultural practices.