New Delhi, January 10 (IANS). Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has said that the total export value of organic farming can reach Rs 20,000 crore in the next three years.
PM Narendra Modi had highlighted the growing importance of organic farming across the world during his speech on the 78th Independence Day last year. Also, the far-reaching benefits of organic farming on personal health and restoring the nutrients in the soil were explained.
Speaking at the launch of the 8th edition of the National Program for Organic Production (NPOP) in the national capital, Union Minister Goyal launched a dedicated NPOP portal as well as the ‘Organic Promotion Portal’.
“Organic farming as a sustainable farming practice will help the country tackle water scarcity and excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, which harm soil quality and crop yields,” the Union Minister said.
Highlighting the efforts of farmers in ensuring food security, Union Minister Goyal said that important efforts are being made by the government to promote organic farming.
He said, “Organic farming has become a priority for the country and will be considered a valuable method of farming across the world. Farmers adopting organic farming have seen an increase in yields and income.”
The event also introduced TraceNet 2.0, an upgraded online traceability system for seamless operations and better tools for regulatory monitoring.
A redesigned APEDA portal with better user experience and information was also showcased for the benefit of Agri and Processed Food Products stakeholders.
The Union Minister further said that there is a need to emphasize on packaging and marketing of organic products to ensure that farmers get the right price for their produce.
–IANS
SKT/GKT