Syllabus
Theory
Concept of organic farming, principles and its scope in India; Choice of crops and varieties in organic farming; Nutrient management in organic farming and their sources; Fundamentals of insect, pest, disease and weed management under organic mode of production; Operational structure of NPOP; Certification process and crop standards of organic farming; Processing, labelling, economic considerations and viability, marketing and export potential of organic products. Initiatives taken by Government (central/state), NGOs and other organizations for promotion of organic agriculture. Conservation agriculture: definition, origin, principles, advantages, challenges; Primary practices in conservation agriculture: minimum soil disturbance, crop residue retention, and crop diversification, complementary practices, conservation agriculture vis a vis Climate Smart Agriculture; Organic manures- recommended doses and application in comparison to inorganic fertilizers for major crops.
Practical
Visit of organic farms to study the various components and their utilization; Preparation of enrich compost, vermicompost and their quality analysis; Method of application of bio-fertilizers; Indigenous technology knowledge (ITK) for nutrient, insect-pest and disease management; Studies in green manuring in-situ and green leaf manuring, Studies on different type of botanicals for insect pest management; Weed management in organic farming; Cost of organic production system; Practices of conservation agriculture.