Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) is a natural farming approach that relies on cow-derived products such as cow urine and dung. In this method, all agricultural inputs are produced on the farm itself without any direct expenditure on commercial inputs. The scheme aims to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, cut down irrigation costs, and enhance crop quality and yield—all while promoting sustainable, eco-friendly farming practices.
Objectives
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Environmental Protection:
Promote climate-tolerant, natural farming practices that improve soil fertility and preserve biodiversity. -
Cost Reduction:
Lower cultivation costs by reducing dependency on external inputs and minimizing irrigation. -
Health & Nutrition:
Produce chemical-free, nutritious food that benefits human health. -
Economic Empowerment:
Enhance farmers’ incomes by promoting organic and sustainable farming methods and encouraging them to become entrepreneurs. -
Community Development:
Empower farmers through the formation of clusters/groups and improve market access by linking them directly with national markets.
Benefits
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Subsidy:
Farmers receive a subsidy covering 50% of the cost for purchasing essential farming items. This may include:-
A large drum (200 liters)
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A small drum (50 liters)
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A bucket (20 liters)
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A jug, filter, water spray, sprayer
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Biological inputs like Trichoderma, cow urine, dung
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Organic mulch materials (e.g., leaves, groundnut peels, etc.)
The subsidy is provided at 50% of the cost of such items or up to a maximum of Rs. 600 per farmer (whichever is lower), as per guidelines by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
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Training and Capacity Building:
Includes farmer training programs, Gram Panchayat level training, and organized farmers’ tours to share best practices in natural farming.
Eligibility
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Who Can Apply:
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Interested farmers who have a keen interest in natural farming practices.
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Farmers must have a minimum of one acre of land ownership or be recognized as a family account holder.
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Inclusivity:
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Farmers from the same, neighboring, or different villages are eligible.
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Priority is given to SC, ST, BPL, small, and marginal farmers.
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Youths up to 35 years are encouraged to participate.
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Additional Components:
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Horticulture crops and animal husbandry practices can also be integrated into the natural farming process.
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Application Process
Mode: Offline
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Obtain Application Form:
Visit the nearest Agriculture Department office or the local Krishi Vigyan Kendra to get the application form for the scheme. -
Complete the Form:
Fill in all required details such as personal information, landholding details, and agricultural activities. -
Attach Documents:
Include all necessary documents (e.g., Aadhaar Card, bank passbook, land proof). -
Submission:
Submit the completed application form along with the required documents at the Agriculture Department or village panchayat office. -
Tracking & Grievance:
After submission, farmers can track the status online at www.ysrjalakala.ap.gov.in or call the Spandana Toll-Free No. 1902 for queries.
Documents Required
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Aadhaar Card
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Bank Passbook
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Land Proof (e.g., Land Passbook showing first and second pages)
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Residential Proof
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Caste Certificate (if applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What is this scheme?
Zero Budget Natural Farming is a sustainable, low-cost farming approach where farmers produce all necessary inputs on their own farms using cow products and organic materials, reducing dependency on chemicals. -
What are the benefits?
It reduces the cost of cultivation, improves crop quality and yield, promotes chemical-free food production, and provides a subsidy for purchasing essential farming items along with training opportunities. -
Who can get benefits under this scheme?
Eligible beneficiaries are farmers in Rajasthan with at least one acre of land (or recognized as family account holders) who have an interest in adopting natural farming practices. Priority is given to economically weaker sections, SC/ST, small, and marginal farmers, and youths up to 35 years. -
Is there any eligibility criterion related to landholding?
Yes, farmers must have a minimum of one acre of land. -
Are SC/ST farmers given any preference?
Yes, priority is given to SC, ST, and BPL farmers. -
How to apply?
Farmers must collect and complete the application form from their local Agriculture Department office or Krishi Vigyan Kendra and submit it along with the required documents. -
What documents are needed?
Required documents include Aadhaar Card, bank passbook, land proof, and other relevant documents. -
Is there an online application option?
The application process is primarily offline, but farmers can track their application status online. -
What is the timeline?
The scheme guidelines and deadlines are provided by the local Agriculture Department; applicants should contact their district office for specific timelines