Farming Techniques in India Every Farmer Should Know

India's agricultural sector is a rich mosaic fashioned from ancient roots and modern innovations. With more than 60% of the rural populace involved in farming, the country's farming methods are as variegated as its culture.

This article explores the different types of farming techniques in India, emphasizing eco-friendly methods, technology, and government schemes that are revolutionizing Indian agriculture.

Different Types of Farming Techniques in India

1. Traditional Farming Methods: The Origin of Indian Farming

a. Barahnaja – A Twelve-Crop System

Developed in the hilly regions of Uttarakhand, Barahnaja (literally "twelve seeds") is an ancient polyculture system in which twelve crops are grown together. It increases the fertility of the soil, suppresses pest infestations, and promotes food security. Crops such as ragi, amaranth, buckwheat, and kidney beans grow well under this system, which does not require chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

b. Agroforestry – Combining Trees with Crops

Agroforestry is the intentional combination of trees into farming systems. In India, windbreaks, silvopasture, and alley cropping are on the increase. These practices enhance soil quality, save water, and generate income from timber and fruits.

2. Sustainable and Organic Farming Practices

a. Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)

Formulated by Subhash Palekar, ZBNF is one of the best farming techniques in India,an input-free farming system that relies on indigenous microorganisms and natural inputs such as cow dung and urine to improve soil health. The system decreases the cost of inputs and maintains ecological balance, making it especially appropriate for smallholder farmers .

b. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

IPM integrated biological, cultural, and mechanical approaches to pest management. Methods include the introduction of natural enemies, pheromone traps, and biopesticides such as neem oil. It is a non chemical method that reduces chemical use and increases biodiversity.

Increased demand for organic farming in India has made many farmers transition from chemical-intensive to more environmentally friendly and sustainable models. If you're interested in learning the process, advantages, and where to start, here's an extensive guide on organic farming in India in Hindi that explains everything to you.

3. New Agricultural Technologies

a. Micro Drip Irrigation

In water-scarce regions, micro drip irrigation is one of the best farming techniques in India,providing a solution by applying water directly to plant roots, minimizing wastage. It is best suited for crops such as sugarcane, vegetables, and fruits, conserving up to 70% of water.

b. Polyhouse Farming

Polyhouse cultivation is cultivating crops in controlled ecosystems, safe from harsh weather conditions as well as from pests. This method is becoming popular in states such as Tamil Nadu for raising high-value crops like capsicum, cucumber, and flowers .

c. Super Seeder

The Super Seeder is a no-till seeder where farmers can directly plant wheat seeds after paddy harvest without the pre-requisite stubble burning. The machine machines and removes paddy straw, plants wheat seeds, and drops the straw as mulch in one go, which enhances the health of soil and diminishes air pollution .

4. Government Plans Benefiting Farmers

a. PM-KUSUM Scheme

Rolling out in 2019, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) programseeks to supply farmers with solar-powered irrigation pumps. Up to 90% of the subsidies are provided by the government to break the reliance on diesel and encourage renewable energy in farming.

b. Promoting Millets

Realizing the nutritional and environmental advantages of millets, their cultivation is being promoted by the government. Steps are being taken to set up millet boards and encourage farmer producer organizations to increase millet cultivation and consumption.

c. Cotton Plucking Machines

Labor shortages during cotton picking are being addressed by the government through supporting the growth of cotton plucking machines. Multiple workers' work can be done by these machines, making the process more efficient and cost-effective.

Kissan Growth: India’s #1 Farm Online Marketplace

Kissan Growth is India’s premier farm-to-consumer platform, bridging the gap between farmers and end-users. We enable you to:

Buy fresh produce like organic fruits, vegetables, dairy, and grains

Support sustainable farming by cutting out middlemen

Enjoy affordable prices while empowering local farmers

Buy Fresh, Buy Local – Directly from Farmers!

Join Kissan Growth, India’s trusted online marketplace where you can access farm-fresh products straight from the source and be part of a greener, more sustainable future.

Final Thoughts

Indian agriculture is evolving—guided by ancient wisdom, strengthened by science, and supported by policy. From Barahnaja to Super Seeders, today’s farming landscape reflects a vibrant blend of sustainability and innovation. Whether you’re a grower or a consumer, embracing this agricultural renaissance can nourish both the land and the people.

Original Source:

https://kissangrowth.com/blog/farming-techniques-in-india-every-farmer-should-know-682dc4b56ebfc9954438eb78