Revitalization of Rivers in India Draft Policy - Isha Guru Jaggi Vasudev

Revitalization of Rivers In India
Draft Policy Recommendation
TABLE 4: RESPONSE OF VARIOUS CROPS TO DRIP-IRRIGATION
Crops Water saving (%) Increase in yield (%)
Banana 45 52
Cauliflower 68 70
Chilli 68 28
Cucumber 56 48
Grapes 48 23
Groundnut 40 152
Pomegranate 45 45
Sugarcane 50 99
Sweet lime 61 50
Tomato 42 60
Watermelon 66 19
Source: National Committee on Plasticulture Applications in Horticulture (NCPAH)
INSTITUTIONAL SETUP TO PROVIDE ORGANIC FARM AND
PRODUCE CERTIFICATION
One of the common preconditions for tree plantation on either side
of the rivers is to make these areas chemical-free zones. When we ask for
a stretch of villages to transition to tree-based farming, it is important
for the government to handhold and facilitate smooth conversion of
conventional farmers to organic farming through training and extension
programs through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVK). Also when it is ready
for the market, organic produce needs to be certified. This can be done
through group certification of the farm and its produce. Promotion
of group certification instead of individual farmer certification will
help ensure there is a group support and pressure to transition from
conventional agriculture to organic agriculture. Participatory Guarantee
System can also be considered at a village level for building trust about
the demand for the produce. Alternatively transitioning to organic
farming through the Non-Pesticide Management (NPM) route may also
be thought about to produce safe food. 26 There are companies working on
helping farmers grow food without pesticides. 27 This is an easier switch
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