In Punjab, to promote organic farming, the state government has started a pilot project of 'residue-free farming' cultivation of Basmati crop.

Under this project, cultivation of Basmati crop has been started in Chogawan block of Amritsar district.

Residue-free agriculture involves minimal or no use of chemicals.
Under this project, cultivation of Basmati crop has been started in Chogawan block of Amritsar district.
Chogawan block of Amritsar is located in the valley of river Ravi and has favorable climatic conditions for nurturing the most aromatic long grain Basmati rice, making it an export quality produce.
According to Punjab Government Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, an awareness campaign has also been launched in the area to make farmers aware about the judicious use of pesticides.
In this sequence, the use of about 10 pesticides/fungicides on Basmati crops has been banned.

What is Organic Farming?

Organic agriculture is a method of farming in which synthetic fertilizers and synthetic pesticides are not used or are significantly reduced. In organic agriculture, crop rotation, green manure, compost etc. are used to maintain the fertility of the land.
Organic agriculture involves the integration of natural elements such as soil, water, microbes and waste products, forestry and agriculture.
Sikkim, the north-eastern state of India, has become the first state in the country to completely adopt organic agriculture. Apart from this, Tripura and Uttarakhand states are also making efforts towards achieving this goal.

Benefits of organic farming:

The damage caused to the environment by indiscriminate use of pesticides and chemicals can be reduced.
Water conservation and keeps water clean.
Maintains the health and welfare of animals.
Maintains the quality of soil.
Prevents soil erosion.
Widespread adoption of organic agriculture can reduce the ill effects of global warming.