Millions of farmers in India have rejected chemical pesticides as part of a growing movement that favors natural alternatives. Non-pesticide management is a sustainable approach to pest control operating on the theory that an infestation of one type of insect indicates a disturbance somewhere in the environment. Getting to the root of the problem instead of treating the symptoms can both balance the insect population and improve crop health overall. The switch to natural farming methods began as a grassroots movement. In 2000, the 900 or so villagers living in Punukula, Andhra Pradesh, suffered from a number of debilitating issues. Farmers reported health problems that ranged from acute poisoning to death. Pest infestations regularly destroyed crops as insects developed resistance, causing farmers to take out loans to buy an increasing number of expensive chemical pesticides. Families faced crippling healthcare costs, crop failure, loss of income, and debt, all directly related to pesticides. With the help of local organizations, farmers experimented with non-pesticide management techniques like using natural deterrents (such as neem and chili pepper) to manage insects, and by planting trap crops (like marigold and castor). Whereas chemical pesticides kill all insects, non-pesticide management seeks to balance the ecosystem so that insects exist in normal numbers (and never reach infestation levels). Many insects – like ladybugs, dragonflies and spiders – have an important role in nature that can benefit plants. Within a year of using natural agricultural methods, villagers noticed a number of positive impacts. Previously reported health issues vanished. Farms practicing non-pesticide management boasted higher profits and fewer expenses. Sourcing, grinding and mixing natural repellants like neem seeds and chili peppers also created more jobs in the village. As farmers cultivated more land, technology like backpack sprayers helped them tend to crops more efficiently. Residents reported an overall improvement in their quality of life, from health to happiness to finances. As word spread, more and more farmers decided to shun chemicals. In 2004, Punukula became one of the first villages in India to declare itself completely pesticide-free. The village council even went so far as to request that pesticide salesmen stop soliciting. Soon, other towns and villages in Andhra Pradesh started practicing natural farming.

Which of the following benefits can be associated with the organic farming?

1. It is labour intensive thus results in more generation of employment.
2. Generate income through exports of organic products.
3. It relies heavily on pesticides and fertilizers for high yield.
4. Requires machinery and latest technology for increasing the yield.
5. It maintains natural eco system.

1, 2 and 5

Following are the benefits of organic farming:

• Highly economical as it substitutes pesticides and chemicals for locally produced organic inputs which are cheaper.
• Generate income through increased exports of organic products as there is demand internationally.
• They are more nutritional and healthy and also are environment friendly in nature.
• It is labour intensive thus, more generation of employment.
• It helps in maintaining natural eco-system.