Organic farming in India has the potential to be both profitable and sustainable. The key to success lies in factors like soil health, managing pests, and obtaining organic certification.
Madhya Pradesh dominates organic farming, covering 40% of India's area. It exported over 5 lakh metric tonnes worth Rs 2,683 crore in 2021-22, led by tribal districts.
Maharashtra, the second largest in organic farming, has 3,71,000 hectares. Since 2017, its policy aims to expand organic cultivation to 25 lakh hectares in three years, promoting sustainable farming.
By FY 2021, Rajasthan farmed 3,00,000 hectares. The shift to organic farming began with the state's 'Kheti Mein Jaan Toh Sashakt Kisan' initiative, which focused on reducing farming costs.
Gujarat excels in organic farming with its own university, policy, and a 100% organic district (Dang). Challenges include market access despite 1.5 lakh hectares for diverse crops.
In Karnataka, over 12,000 farmers are engaged in 100% organic farming, while around 1.1 million farmers practice at least 50% organic farming methods.