Organic Farming Initiative Faces Hurdles in Assam
By Preetam/Preeti, Reporter, The Assam Tribune
Guwahati, Assam, November 1 – The Assam government recently launched an ambitious initiative to promote organic farming across the state, highlighting its potential to boost local economies, improve soil health, and reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers. However, early reports from farmers reveal that the transition to organic methods is facing significant challenges, particularly in terms of resource access, knowledge gaps, and market demand for organic produce.
Local farmers, many of whom are accustomed to conventional farming practices, have expressed concerns about the lack of affordable resources essential for organic farming. Organic fertilizers and bio-pesticides are often costly and not readily available in rural areas, making it difficult for small-scale farmers to adopt these new practices. Although government schemes offer subsidies, the slow and complex application process has hindered many from accessing these benefits.
Another obstacle is the limited availability of technical training. While the government has organized workshops and awareness drives, many farmers still lack adequate knowledge of organic farming techniques. “We need more hands-on guidance on composting, crop rotation, and pest control using organic methods. Most of us are still unsure about how to make this change effectively,” said Ranjit Das, a farmer from Nalbari.
Market demand poses yet another challenge. Organic produce is priced higher than conventionally grown crops, leading to concerns over consumer affordability. While urban areas have shown an interest in organic products, rural markets are less supportive due to higher costs. Farmers worry that without a steady demand and price assurance, the transition to organic farming may not be financially viable.
Despite these hurdles, experts argue that organic farming can offer Assam numerous benefits, such as preserving soil health, improving biodiversity, and reducing pollution in rivers and ecosystems. With Assam’s rich natural resources and favorable climate, organic farming has the potential to thrive with the right support systems in place.
The state government has assured farmers that it will expand its resource distribution networks and streamline subsidy applications. Officials are also exploring collaboration with organic product distributors and local marketplaces to help farmers find stable buyers.
As Assam moves toward a greener agricultural model, it remains to be seen if these efforts will bridge the gap between policy and practice, enabling organic farming to thrive in the state. With dedicated support and resources, organic farming could truly become a sustainable choice for Assam’s farmers and the environment.
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