In an era where modern agriculture is increasingly dependent on synthetic chemicals and high external inputs, Natural Farming emerges as a beacon of hope—reviving the bond between farming and nature. This book is a comprehensive guide and a philosophical journey into an ecologically sound, economically viable, and socially just farming system. Natural Farming is not just a method; it is a way of thinking—one that respects the natural processes of soil, water, and biodiversity. Based on the principles of no tillage, no chemical fertilizers or pesticides, no weeding through disturbance, and no reliance on external inputs, this approach minimizes human interference while maximizing nature’s potential. Through practical insights, indigenous techniques, and real-life success stories, this book highlights how Natural Farming re-stores soil fertility, enhances crop health, and reduces input costs—making it especially relevant for small and marginal farmers. It draws from the pioneering work of visionaries like Masanobu Fukuoka and Subhash Palekar, blending traditional wisdom with modern ecological understanding. This book is designed for farmers, students, researchers, and policy-makers seeking sustainable solutions to current agricultural challenges. With growing concerns about climate change, soil degradation, and food safety, Natural Farming offers a timely and transformative alternative. Let this book be a step towards rethinking our relationship with the land—not as a factory, but as a living system that thrives when nurtured with care, respect and balance.
Dr. Shayista Fayaz is a distinguished scholar and researcher in the field of agriculture. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture and completed her Master of Science in Agronomy in 2019. She further advanced her academic journey by earning a Ph.D. in Agronomy, successfully defending her research thesis with a focus on critical agricultural challenges. Her research has been impactful, addressing key areas, such as optimizing sweet corn establishment methods, innovative weed management practices, and enhancing maize productivity. Her studies also delve into the residual effects of weed management within the maize oat cropping system, showcasing her commitment to improving agricultural efficiency and sustainability. In addition to her research, Dr. Shayista Fayaz has made significant contributions to academic literature. She has authored eighteen research publications and contributed to thirteen book chapters. Her expertise is further highlighted by her authorship of three books, reflecting her dedication to advancing agricultural knowledge. Dr. Shayista Fayaz has actively participated in numerous conferences and training programs, sharing her insights and learning from other experts in the field. She has also served as a Vocational Trainer for Agriculture under the Government School Education Department, where she played a pivotal role in educating and inspiring future professionals. As a member of the Association of Agro-meteorologists, Anand, Dr. Shayista Fayaz is committed to fostering collaboration and innovation in agriculture. Her on-farm research trials on organic farming, conducted across various districts, have provided valuable insights into sustainable practices. Additionally, she has organized training programs under NAHEP, HADP, and MSME initiatives, emphasizing her dedication to practical applications of her research. Dr. Shayista Fayaz’s remarkable academic achievements, extensive research output, and unwavering commitment to agronomy stand as a testament to her passion for advancing the field of agriculture. Her work continues to contribute meaningfully to the progress and sustainability of modern farming practices.
Dr. Parmeet Singh is a Professor-cum-Chief Scientist at SKUAST-Kashmir. He has secured 1st position in M.Sc. Agronomy and has qualified ICAR-NET in 2004. He is Ph.D. in Agronomy and has worked in weed management on aromatic rice. He joined SKUAST-K since 2007 as an Assistant Professor and has worked in different capacities. He did a fellowship on production of encapsulated bio-herbicides sponsored by Indian National Science Academy in 2016. He has published 55 research papers, 20 book chapters, 18 Compendium write-ups, 03 manuals and 3 book. Dr. Singh is involved in many internal and externally funded projects and has a long experience of teaching Weed Science in UG and PG courses. He is a lifetime member of number of professional societies. He has been in Germany to attend seminar on behalf of SKUAST-K as a simulation modellar. He has been a Coordinator and Course Director of number of ICAR sponsored training programmes. Dr. Singh is a National Facilitator of MANAGE, Hyderabad. Dr. Singh was heading a Krishi Vigyan Kendra for 4 years and published number of extension publications for farming community and extension personal. Presently Dr. Singh is handling a project worth Rs. 15 crore under Holistic Agriculture Development Plan. The project aims production of temperate acclimatized strains of Biofertilizers and Biopesticides, Standardization of Organic technologies and capacity building of Extension Personals in Kashmir Valley.
Dr. Subhash Chand is a distinguished Professor of Soil Science at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K). Holding a Ph.D. in Soil Science, his contributions to the field are noteworthy, particularly through his authored and co-authored books. These publications cover a wide spectrum of Soil Science, catering to students, researchers, and professionals alike. Here's a glimpse into some of his books: • Soil Science: A Competitive Approach (2024): This book is designed for those preparing for competitive exams in Soil Science, offering a comprehen sive yet focused approach to the subject. • Soil Science an Extension Perspective (2025): Co-authored with Sanjay Kumar Raina, this book bridges the gap between Soil Science principles and their practical application in agricultural extension, aiming to empower farmers and extension professionals. • Environmental Science and Soil Ecology: A Glossary (2024): Co-authored with others, this book provides a readily accessible compilation of key terms and definitions in environmental science and soil ecology. • Terminology of Soil Fertility, Fertilizer and Organics (2014, 2021): This book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the technical vocabulary related to soil fertility, fertilizers, and organic materials. It is helpful for students and researchers in agricultural sciences. • Organic Farming Concepts, Application and Advances (2021): Co-authored with Sartaj A. Wani, this book delves into the principles, practices, benefits, and limitations of organic farming, along with recent advancements in the f ield. • Dictionary of Soil Science (2007): This dictionary provides concise definitions of approximately 750 terms encompassing various aspects of Soil Science, including contemporary concepts like integrated plant nutrient systems, organic farming, and precision agriculture. • Integrated Nutrient Management For Sustaining Crop Productivity and Soil Health (2008, 2024): This book explores strategies for integrated nutri - ent management to enhance crop productivity while maintaining soil health. It offers practical options for various crops and cropping systems. • Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Change (2017): Co-authored with Lal Singh and Parmeet Singh, this book addresses the crit ical nexus of sustainable agriculture, food security, and the challenges posed by climate change. • Questions Bank on Soil Science and GK for Competitive Exams (2023): This book provides a collection of questions on Soil Science and General Knowledge, specifically designed to assist aspirants of various competitive examinations in agriculture. Through these books, Dr. Chand demonstrates his commitment to disseminating knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of Soil Science and its crucial role in agriculture and environmental sustainability. His works serve as valuable resources for the academic community and practitioners in the field. Based on recent information, Dr. Subhash Chand has authored a book titled Natural Farming - A Rising Concept. This appears to be a more recent publication than some of his other works I previously mentioned. This book likely delves specifically into the principles, practices, and growing relevance of natural farming. Given Dr. Chand's background in Soil Science and his previous work on organic farming, this book would likely offer a scientifically informed perspective on this increasingly important agricultural approach. In total, he published 143 publications including popular articles, research papers, conference seminar papers, etc. in Soil Sciences. He was also awarded Bhoominirman Award and Prashasti Patra in 2011 by Bhoominirman Group at Indore for his work.Presnted research paper at Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany, ,Invited to present papers at Spain in Eurosoil 2025, Wisconsin, Madison.
Ms. Kawaljeet Kaur is currently pursuing a degree in Environmental Science at Leeds Beckett University, UK (2024). She has served as an Officer at Lovely Professional University, Phagwara (2023), and has been working as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Agriculture at CT Group of Institutions, Jalandhar, since 2019, teaching undergraduate students. She holds a B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture (2017) and an M.Sc. in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry (2019) from Lovely Professional University. In addition to teaching, she is an Editor for Nature Science e-magazine and other agricultural publications, and has also worked as a Managing Editor for newsletters. Her contributions include mentoring students globally, assisting with dissertations, and publishing research papers, review articles, popular articles, books, and book chapters in national and international forums. She has participated in various academic conferences, webinars, and certification programs, and has received awards, such as Young Scientist and Young Soil Scientist for her contributions to the field.
1 Understanding Basics of Natural Farming .............................................1
2 Exploring Ecosystem Services and Natural Farming ..............................5
3 Soil Health and Nutrient Management .................................................11
4 Economical Natural Farming: Advantages and Hurdles .......................21
5 Water Management in Natural Farming Production System ...............25
6 Pest and Disease Management in Natural Farming .............................31
7 Integrated Farming System Approach Under Natural Farming ...........37
8 Health and Nutrition in Natural Farming .............................................43
9 Integrated Role of Cow-Based Liquid Formulations in Enhancing Natural Farming Systems ......................................................................49
10 Promoting Biodynamic and Natural Farming to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals ..........................................................55
11 Eco-Friendly Strategies for Managing Crop Residues in Natural Narming ....................................................................................59
12 Role of Agroforestry in Natural Farming ..............................................63
13 Harnessing Carbon Farming for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Natural Farming ...............................................69
14 Extension Strategies for Promoting Natural Farming ..........................77
15 Sustainable Natural Farming Techniques for Horticultural Crops ........85
16 Certification and Marketing of Natural Produce ..................................95
Appendixes ............................................................................................97
