What is the National Agriculture Code?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is developing a new set of guidelines called the National Agriculture Code (NAC). Think of it as the agricultural equivalent of the national codes we have for buildings and electrical systems. The goal of the NAC is to create standards that improve the quality and efficiency of farming practices in India, addressing current gaps in regulations.
Understanding the NAC
The NAC aims to establish rules and guidelines that cover various agricultural practices across the country. These standards will help ensure that farming methods are efficient, safe, and of high quality. While there are already regulations for farming machinery, fertilizers, and pesticides, many important areas of agriculture still lack clear guidelines.
Why is the NAC needed?
While the BIS has set standards for specific items like machinery and fertilizers, other critical aspects of farming don’t follow standardized processes. These include land preparation (getting fields ready for planting), irrigation (managing water for crops), and sustainable farming practices.
The absence of clear regulations has been a recognized issue among policymakers for some time. They believe that a strong framework like the NAC can help make farming more organized and efficient.
What will the NAC cover?
The NAC will focus on several key areas:
– Agricultural Processes: This includes everything from selecting the right crops and preparing the land to planting, watering, and harvesting.
– Post-Harvest Operations: After harvesting, the NAC will provide guidelines for initial processing, storage, and ensuring traceability of produce.
– Input Management: This will set standards for using chemical fertilizers and pesticides while promoting organic farming practices.
– New Farming Methods: The NAC will also incorporate modern technologies, like the Internet of Things (IoT) for farming and sustainable agricultural techniques.
What are the objectives of the NAC?
The NAC aims to achieve several important goals:
– Create a national framework to guide various farming methods across India.
– Foster a culture of quality in Indian agriculture that policymakers and regulators can follow.
– Serve as a resource for farmers, helping them make informed decisions in their practices.
– Encourage the use of modern agricultural techniques, including smart farming and sustainability initiatives.
When will the NAC be ready?
The BIS is actively working on drafting the NAC, with a goal to complete it by October 2025. Once finalized, training will be provided to farmers to help them understand and implement the new standards in their daily operations.
What are Standardized Agriculture Demonstration Farms (SADF)?
To help test and promote the NAC, the BIS is also setting up Standardized Agriculture Demonstration Farms (SADF). These farms will be established in collaboration with major agricultural institutes and will serve as experimental sites. Farmers and others in the agricultural sector can learn directly from these farms, observing standardized practices in action and discovering how to apply them in their own fields.
