Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel visits natural farming farms in Mahundra village

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited natural farming farms in Mahundra village of Gandhinagar taluka to promote Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Back to Basics” vision among rural farmers. The Chief Minister inspected the farm of Alpesh Patel, who practices natural farming, and showed interest in cattle management at the local gaushala and cow-based natural farming techniques. During his visit, Bhupendra Patel sat on a charpoi with the villagers of Mahundra and engaged in an interactive discussion. He stated, “Natural farming is the only way to safeguard future generations.” He emphasised that reducing excessive use of chemical fertilisers would protect people from serious diseases and improve soil and societal health, according to an official release. Expressing concern about declining soil health, the Chief Minister noted that soil carbon levels have dropped to an alarming degree. He asserted that natural farming offers a strong solution to improve the wellbeing of both soil and human bodies and called upon every citizen to take responsibility for conserving natural resources. Referring to the nationwide ‘Amrit Sarovar’ and ‘Khet Talavadi’ campaigns initiated by Prime Minister Modi to address water scarcity and irregular rainfall, Patel mentioned that under schemes such as Sujalam Sufalam, the government’s policy on filling lakes has been extended from a 3-kilometre to a 7-kilometre radius. Speaking about the hydrogen train launched by the Prime Minister recently, the Chief Minister highlighted India’s role in leading the transition towards green energy globally. He also urged citizens to adopt environmentally friendly practices, encouraging the use of paper bags instead of plastic bags for carrying vegetables and goods. Patel affirmed the state government’s commitment to balanced development by prioritising both industry and environmental concerns. During the interaction, farmers engaged in natural farming shared their experiences and motivated others to adopt chemical-free methods. They also recognised the continuous guidance provided by agricultural scientists and government officials. The Chief Minister further visited the model farm of Shantilalbhai Patel at Shivpura Kampa.