The program was held at the J.H. Patel Auditorium under the National Natural Farming Campaign and jointly organized by the Koppal District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, Agriculture Department, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (Gangavati), and Agricultural Technicians Institute (Koppal).
“The indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers is leading to soil degradation, reduced fertility, and greater crop vulnerability to pests. Additionally, chemical-laden produce faces lower demand globally due to health and environmental concerns,” Nalini Atul noted, urging a shift towards integrated organic practices, including in allied sectors like horticulture, sericulture, animal husbandry, and fisheries.
Highlighting future plans, the Deputy Commissioner announced the expansion of horticulture to 1.5 lakh hectares in the district, expected to significantly boost farmer incomes. The establishment of a Horticulture Tech Park and Rice Park is also on the agenda, along with branding initiatives to promote exports of local produce.
Zilla Panchayat CEO Rahul Ratnam pointed out that out of Koppal's 4.6 lakh hectares of agricultural land, only 4,000 hectares are under organic cultivation. He encouraged CRPs and BRPs to drive awareness and help expand organic farming zones. “Organic farming is low-cost and low-labor, but it requires patience and long-term commitment,” he said.
Progressive farmer Devendrappa Balutagi of Kushtagi Taluk was felicitated at the event for receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, for his commitment to natural farming.
The event also saw the release of awareness posters on the Kharif Crop Insurance Scheme. Among the attendees were Joint Director of Agriculture T.S. Rudreshappa, scientists, assistant directors from all taluks, and faculty from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur.
