About Global Innovation Index:

Released by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), India has risen significantly from 81st in 2015 to 39th in 2024. With a score of 67.5, Switzerland ranks at the top.

World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO):

• It is the global forum for Intellectual Property (IP) services, policy, information, and cooperation.
• It is a self-funding agency of the United Nations, comprising 193 member states.
• The organization aims to develop a balanced and effective international IP system that fosters innovation and creativity for everyone’s benefit.

National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF)

The Union Cabinet on November 25 approved the launch of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare with a budget outlay of Rs 2,481 crore.

What is Natural Farming?

The Agriculture Ministry defines natural farming as a “chemical-free” farming system that only uses inputs produced using livestock and plant resources.

• It is a system where the laws of nature are applied to agricultural practices.
• This method works along with the natural biodiversity of each farmed area.
• It encourages the complexity of living organisms, both plants, and animals that shape each particular ecosystem to thrive along with food plants.

Need for a mission on natural farming

To promote natural farming practices

• There was a growing need for promoting natural farming practices.
• Many districts with high fertilizer sale
• 228 districts across 16 states have been identified with fertiliser usage above the national average of 138 kg/hectare in 2022-23.
• These districts have been targeted in the NMNF.
• Also, special focus will be given on districts where fertiliser use exceeds 200 kg/hectare.
• It also includes a 5 km-wide area along the main stem of the Ganga River.

Economic Benefits

• Reduces input costs for farmers by minimizing dependency on externally purchased fertilisers and pesticides.

Soil and Environmental Health

• Improves soil health, fertility, and quality.
• Increases soil carbon content, enhances biodiversity, and promotes microorganisms.
• Builds resilience to climate risks such as waterlogging, floods, and droughts.

Health and Nutrition

• Reduces health risks associated with fertilizers and pesticides.
• Provides nutritious food for farmers’ families.

Intergenerational Benefits

• Ensures a healthy Mother Earth for future generations through sustainable farming.

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