Natural_Farming_Presentation.pptx iududshssjsjsdusudus

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1. Processing, Labeling, Economics & Certification in Natural Farming Challenges, Standards and Prospects Prepared by: Priyanshu Acharya

2. Introduction / Context • Natural farming emphasizes chemical-free, ecological cultivation. • Key aspects: processing, labeling, economics, certification. • Ensures sustainability, consumer trust, and farmer profitability.

3. Processing in Natural Farming • Involves minimal processing: cleaning, grading, drying, packaging. • Helps increase shelf life and market value. • Challenges: lack of infrastructure, post-harvest losses. • Example: Dehydration of spices, small-scale milling.

4. Labeling in Natural Farming • Labels inform consumers: ‘natural’, ‘chemical-free’, etc. • Elements: product name, origin, ingredients, certification. • Must be truthful and non-misleading. • Linked to certification—only verified produce can carry labels.

5. Economic Considerations – Costs & Returns • Lower input cost (no chemicals), higher labor involvement. • Savings on fertilizers and pesticides. • Revenue: premium prices for natural produce. • Intercropping and diversity reduce risk.

6. Economic Considerations – Risks & Barriers • Yield dip during transition period. • Certification cost and compliance burden. • Limited market access, infrastructure gaps. • Smallholders struggle with economies of scale.

7. Certification & Standards – Overview • Certification builds consumer trust and ensures quality. • Verifies production practices through audits. • Two systems: third-party and participatory guarantee system (PGS).

8. Natural Farming Certification System (NFCS) – India • NFCS regulates certification for natural farming. • Covers crops, livestock, processing, and handling. • Promotes transparency, traceability, and authenticity. • Linked to PGS-India and national organic standards.

9. International & Organic Standards • Natural farming overlaps with organic standards (NPOP, NSOP). • Focuses more on local inputs and zero-budget approach. • Harmonization challenges between organic and natural standards.

10. Economic Impact of Certification & Labeling • Certified products fetch premium prices. • Certification cost can be high for small farmers. • Group certification helps reduce cost burden. • Increases consumer trust and export potential.

11. Challenges & Recommendations • Challenges: lack of infrastructure, awareness, high costs. • Recommendations: - Strengthen cooperatives and FPOs. - Subsidies for certification. - Promote branding and marketing. - Capacity building for farmers.

12. Conclusion & Key Takeaways • Processing, labeling, and certification are vital for success. • Economics depend on support systems and policy backing. • Ensuring trust through standards strengthens market access. • Natural farming is sustainable and economically promising.