, 06 October 2016 : style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare today here signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ministry of Water Resources, Water Development and Ganga Rejuvenation to promote organic farming on the banks of river Ganga. According to this agreement, villagers situated on the banks of river Ganga will be encouraged for organic farming.

As per agreement, under the Namami Gange project 1657 gram panchayats situated along the course of river Ganga starting from Uttarakhand to West Bengal, organic farming will be developed in 1657 clusters under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY). Under this project, Ministry of Agriculture along with cluster formation, will provide training on Integrated Nutrient Management and micro-irrigation techniques.

To promote organic farming on the banks of river Ganga, clusters of gram panchayats will be formed, awareness campaigns will be launched and self help groups will be formed by the Ministry. Apart from this, related information will be provided through mobile applications and awareness will be created among the masses about the side-effects of using chemicals, fertilizers and insecticides in farming will be created. Initiatives will be taken to promote the improved ways of irrigation for water rejuvenation in Ganga valley. Also, organic farming and livestock based livelihood will be promoted on the banks of Ganga river. Ministry of Agriculture is promoting organic farming under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana throughout the country especially in north-eastern states.

Memorandum of Understanding programme was chaired by Sushri Uma Bharti, Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare was the guest of honour in the programme.