Natural farming is emerging as an alternative approach to conventional agriculture in India because it addresses the intertwined challenges of food security, nutrition, and rural livelihoods. The new approach, known as Andhra Pradesh Community-Managed Natural Farming (APCNF), promotes a low-cost, locally sourced natural farming method that does not rely on the use of agrochemicals. Recently, the University of Reading has released a new policy briefing entitled: ‘Pathways for expanding natural farming in India.’

Professor Henny Osbahr, based in the Department of International Development highlighted the project’s key findings on impact and feasibility:

“Our team’s scientific research shows no yield penalty in some contexts and significantly lower input costs during the first year after the adoption of natural farming, demonstrating that it can help some marginal farmers improve sustainable productivity. We are able to offer useful key recommendations from this research project.”
The policy brief synthesises scientific research to provide a clear roadmap for policymakers on how to effectively scale the adoption of natural farming, leveraging its proven benefits for sustainable productivity and reduced input costs for marginal farmers.

Read the full policy brief

APCNF is being implemented by Rythu Sahikara Samstha, a non-profit organisation established by the state government. RySS works through a rural extension model that engages a network of educated and trained farming fellows, resource persons, and champions of the APCNF program to work in village clusters, primarily with women’s self-help groups.

An interdisciplinary team of soil and social scientists from the University of Reading are working to develop an evidence base to understand and review the strengths and weaknesses of the APCNF approach.