Effects of Zero-budget Natural Farming on Yield, Earthworm Populations, Microbiological Activity, and the Requirement for Public Policy: A Review

Abstract

At this moment, Indian agriculture is facing a crucial crisis due to the diminishing hope of the green revolution. Overuse and wasteful exploitation of the green revolution's crops have negatively impacted food security and the environment. In recent years, Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF), a rapidly expanding farming method influenced by agroecological principles, has been suggested to increase farm viability and food security. By 2050, sixty percent of Indians will have severe food insufficiencies. There is an urgent need for increased food production, yet farmers are becoming indebted due to the high cost of production and shifting market pricing. This concept works on four concepts they are jeevamrith, bijamrith, mulching, and soil aeration. These four concepts help better soil health, increased microbial population, and enhanced crop yield. Different astras used to control pest infestation in natural farming. Here we discussed ZBNF is requires low input cost, good soil health management, and focused on major challenges and opportunities to adopt ZBNF and what are the policies need to improve this system. ZBNF is the best option for dropping farmers' input costs. This paper reviews the concepts of natural farming in the context of its eco-friendly nature and sustainability.