India’s agricultural practices, developed over six decades, are now at a crossroads. While they have enabled the country to become a major food producer, these practices have also led to significant degradation of natural capital, including land, water, and biodiversity. As the country faces mounting environmental and food security challenges, regenerative farming presents a viable solution to restore ecological balance, improve soil health, and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.
The Decline of Natural Capital in India’s Agriculture
Since the Green Revolution of the 1960s, India’s farming systems have relied heavily on intensive agriculture practices that have depleted the country’s natural resources. Over the years, the country’s arable land has suffered from soil degradation, with soil organic carbon levels plummeting from 2.4% in 1947 to just 0.4% today, far below the threshold required to maintain food security. The excessive use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides has further harmed soil health, compromising nutrient availability and increasing the reliance on chemical inputs.
Additionally, water scarcity and the depletion of groundwater resources pose severe threats to India’s agricultural future. The current system’s inefficiencies are costing the country billions annually in hidden damages related to public health, environmental degradation, and loss of biodiversity. Without reform, India risks facing food shortages driven by climate change, declining soil fertility, and diminishing returns from fertilizers.
The Promise of Regenerative Farming: A Path to Sustainability
Regenerative farming offers a transformative solution by focusing on improving soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and increasing resilience to climate change. Unlike conventional farming, which often relies on synthetic inputs, regenerative practices restore the natural systems that support agriculture. This approach includes techniques like crop rotation, agroforestry, and the use of organic fertilizers, which not only replenish the soil but also promote carbon sequestration, helping mitigate climate change.
Research shows that regenerative practices can increase agricultural productivity and profitability by improving the land’s ability to store water, cycle nutrients, and support healthy ecosystems. This makes it not only beneficial for the environment but also economically viable for farmers. With global studies indicating that regenerative farming can provide more value to agriculture than traditional practices, it is clear that embracing these methods can transform India’s farming landscape.
The Economic and Environmental Benefits of Regenerative Agriculture
India’s farmland, totaling 178 million hectares, has the potential to generate up to US$119 billion annually in ecosystem services. These include the removal of carbon from the atmosphere, improved groundwater quality, and reduced air pollution from crop residue burning. By adopting sustainable practices, India can improve soil health, conserve water, and boost farm productivity, creating a ripple effect across its economy. Regenerative agriculture could also lead to healthier communities by reducing the need for harmful chemical inputs and promoting cleaner, more nutritious food.
Furthermore, the public benefits derived from these practices extend far beyond farming. Restored ecosystems help regulate water systems, improve air quality, and support biodiversity, all of which contribute to broader social and environmental wellbeing. Regenerative agriculture can help create a more sustainable agricultural system that delivers long-term value to both farmers and society.
The Road Ahead: Scaling Regenerative Farming Across India
To successfully implement regenerative farming at scale, India must undertake a comprehensive strategy. This involves testing and promoting regenerative practices across all 15 agro-climatic zones to develop adaptable, scalable models that can be rolled out nationwide. Collaborative efforts involving national and international organizations will be essential to assess the feasibility of regenerative farming and its efficacy in different regions.
Government support, policy reforms, and investment in agroecological practices are necessary to shift the agricultural system towards sustainability. By redesigning its agricultural framework and integrating regenerative practices, India can protect its natural resources, boost food security, and reduce its dependency on harmful chemical inputs. This is an opportunity to lead the way in creating a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.
Conclusion: A Sustainable Future for India’s Agriculture
Regenerative farming is not just an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity for India. By adopting sustainable practices that restore the land and promote ecosystem services, India can ensure food security, bolster the agricultural economy, and reduce the environmental impacts of intensive farming. For executives in the agriculture sector, investing in regenerative practices is crucial to securing a sustainable future for India’s agricultural system and its growing population.