Bio-input resource centres in state boost natural farming

Ranchi: Jharkhand is witnessing a quiet agricultural revolution, with farmers embracing natural farming through a growing network of Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs), supported by organisations like PRADAN, Transform Rural India Foundation (TRIF), PRAVAH, and others. These centres are helping farmers shift from chemical-intensive farming to low-cost, eco-friendly practices while creating rural entrepreneurship.According to officials, Jharkhand currently has 94 BRCs under community-led efforts and another 44 promoted by NGOs, making a total of 138. In addition, the National Coalition for Natural Farming (NCNF) has planned 60 new BRCs under National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). "BRCs are not only reducing chemical dependency but also generating sustainable livelihoods," said Kuldeep Kumar Cheek Baraik, NCNF state head. Ranchi district horticulture officer Mahesh Raj said the govt-led process of setting up BRCs is still at an early stage. "On the official front, the establishment of BRCs is in initial phase. The proposals will be discussed in District Level Monitoring Committee meeting for approval, and all centres will follow NMNF guidelines. However, we are yet to identify appropriate clusters of farmers for natural farming. As per criteria, three clusters will be formed to set up two BRCs, and each cluster must cover at least 50 acres of land with a minimum of 125 farmers, he said. One such centre in Badki Chapi village, Lohardaga, established in 2021 by farmer-entrepreneur Ramlal Dada, has become a model hub. It produces vermicompost (worm compost), Jeevamrit (liquid organic fertilizer), and Neemastra (non-toxic bio-pesticide) while also mentoring other BRCs on preparation techniques, record-keeping, marketing, and quality control. Other villages are also showing the impact of this model. In Tisiya Nawatoli, Lohardaga, a BRC produces Shivansh compost, while in Charima, Ranchi district, grassroots leader Sumitra Kujur has emerged as a trainer in natural preparations like Ramban tonic and Bahubali tonic. In Harinachapar, Gumla district, an entire community has shifted to chemical-free farming under the guidance of its local BRC. The centres also focus on reviving traditional formulations. Bahubali Tonic (soybean, mahua, banana, jaggery, drumstick leaves), Ramban Tonic (neem, custard apple leaves, cow urine), and Neemastra serve as natural alternatives to costly chemical fertilisers and pesticides. Officials presume these centres can transform farming by improving soil health, cutting costs, and empowering rural communities.

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