The Article has been written by Ms. Debanjoli Deb Roy, a 3rd year student of University Law College, Gauhati University, Guwahati.

ABSTRACT

The mechanism of plant variety protection plays a key role in maintaining biological diversity and sustainability. This includes conservation and utilization of different plant species, varieties and genetic resources. Likewise, in the case of organic farming, the deal is no different. Organic farming is the cultivation of crops and animals without synthetic inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides, rather with traditional inputs such as green manure, compost, crop rotation and other cultural practices in to eliminate pests and control diseases. In this article we delve into the numerous organic farming practices and how plant variety protection has been playing a crucial role in promoting organic farming practices.

ORGANIC FARMING- SUSTAINABLE ARGRICULTURE

Organic farming is a practice of sustainable agriculture that emphasizes the use of natural processes, natural diversity and ecological balance. Sustainable agriculture refers to a technique of farming that aims to offer cutting-edge agricultural wishes without compromising the potential destiny of future generations to fulfill their personal wishes. It includes practices that prioritize environmental health, monetary profitability, and social and monetary equity. This method frequently consists of strategies like crop rotation, natural farming, agro forestry, incorporated pest management, and the usage of renewable resources, aiming to lessen the environmental effect of farming even as preserving productivity. It strives to limit the usage of artificial inputs like insecticides and fertilizers, preserve soil fertility, lessen water consumption, and sell biodiversity, contributing to extra resilient and environment friendly food production.

Organic farming avoids the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified organisms and growth regulators. Instead, organic farmers rely on crop rotation, composting and biological pest control to maintain soil fertility and control pests. The goal is to create a closed system where the farm is largely self-sufficient, reduces environmental impacts, promotes soil health, and produces food with as few chemical residues as possible. Organic farming also prioritizes animal welfare and prohibits the routine use of antibiotics and hormones in livestock. Overall, it aims to harmonize agricultural practices with the natural environment and promote long-term sustainability.

Organic agriculture uses several methods to grow crops without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Growing suitable plant species together can prevent pests and improve nutrient absorption. For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes can prevent nematodes.   

 These methods promote sustainability and environmental protection. Some key techniques include:   

1. CROP ROTATION: Crop rotation in a specific order helps prevent soil degradation, pest accumulation and nutrient depletion.  It is a sustainable agricultural practice in which the types of crops grown in a given area are systematically changed over successive seasons. The goal is to improve soil health, minimize pests and diseases and optimize nutrient use. Farmers can break the cycle of pests and diseases, prevent soil degradation and improve overall crop yield and quality. This method also helps to maintain soil fertility by balancing the nutrient needs of different crops and reducing the risk of nutrient depletion. Overall, crop rotation is a strategic approach to promote the long-term sustainability and productivity of agriculture.
2. COVER CROP: Cover crops are plants that are planted to cover the soil, not to harvest it. Cover crops control soil erosion, soil fertility, soil quality, water, weeds, pests, disease, biodiversity and wildlife in an agro ecosystem – an ecological system managed and modified by humans. Planting cover crops during the non-growing season helps control weeds, prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility by adding organic matter.   
3. COMPOSTING: Composting is the biological decomposition of organic matter by microorganisms under controlled aerobic conditions into a relatively stable humus-like material called compost. Composting can be done in many different ways, using different materials, methods, equipment and scales of operation. Recycling organic waste into nutrient-rich compost provides crops with natural fertilizer that improves soil structure and promotes microbial activity.   
4. BIOLOGICAL PEST CONTROL: Biological control, or bio- control, is a method of controlling pests, whether they are pests such as insects and mites, weeds, or pathogens affecting animals or plants using other organisms. Introduction of beneficial organisms that prey on pests helps maintain ecosystem balance and reduce the need for chemical pesticides. 
5. ORGANIC MULCHING: It a water saving technique to increase the production of crops. Applying organic materials (such as straw or leaves) to the mulch will help conserve soil moisture, control weeds and regulate soil temperature.  
6. AGRO- FORESTRY: Agro- forestry is a cultivation system in which combinations of trees or shrubs are grown around or in the middle of crops or pastures. Agro-forestry combines agricultural and forestry technologies to create more versatile, productive, profitable, healthy and sustainable land use systems. Integrating trees and shrubs into cropping systems can increase biodiversity, improve soil fertility and provide additional income. 
7. GREEN MANURE: It is a practice of ploughing in the green plant tissue grown in the field or adding green plants with tender twigs or leaves from outside and incorporating them into the soil for improving the physical structure as well as fertility of the soil.  Growing certain plants, often vegetables and then plowing them back into the soil adds organic matter and nitrogen, improving soil fertility.   
8. WATER MANAGEMENT: Effective use of water through techniques such as drip irrigation reduces water wastage and ensures optimal moisture levels for crops. 

 Together, these methods promote the principles of organic agriculture, emphasizing ecological balance, soil health, and the well-being of plants and the environment.

ORGANIC FARMING IN INDIA

CHALLENGES AND IMPACT:

Organic farming has gained considerable attention in India as a sustainable agricultural practice that aims to promote environmental health and produce chemical-free, nutritious food. Despite the potential benefits, organic agriculture faces several challenges that affect its widespread use and effectiveness in the Indian agricultural landscape. 

  Challenges:  

1. LIMITED AWARENESS AND EDUCATION:  Many farmers lack awareness of the principles and benefits of organic farming.  The limited availability of training on organic farming makes its implementation difficult. 
2. LARGE INITIAL INVESTMENT: The transition from traditional to organic agriculture requires significant investments in organic production inputs and certification.   Smallholders often struggle to finance these start-up costs. 
3. CERTIFICATION PROCESS: Obtaining an organic certificate is a time-consuming and bureaucratic process. The complexity and cost of certification can prevent farmers from switching to organic farming methods.   
4. MARKET ACCESS AND PREMIUM PRICING: Organic products often face challenges in reaching the mainstream market. The high price of organic products can limit their availability to a wider consumer group.  
5. CLIMATE VULNERABILITY: Organic agriculture is more sensitive to weather changes and extreme weather conditions.  Lack of resilience to climate change can affect yields and productivity.   
6. LIMITED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES: Insufficient research on ecological farming practices adapted to different agro-climatic conditions in India. There is a lack of government initiatives to promote research on ecological agriculture. 

IMPACTS:   

1. ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS: Reduction of soil and water pollution due to the absence of synthetic chemicals. It promotes conservation of biodiversity and ecosystems through sustainable agricultural practices.   
2. HEALTHIER SOIL AND WATER: Organic farming promotes soil health by increasing the concentration of organic matter and microbial diversity.  Reducing the use of chemical fertilizers boosts the health of water bodies.   
3. BETTER FARMER INCOME: Over time, as soil health improves, organic farmers can experience increased yields.  Access to a niche market and high prices for organic products can increase farmers’ incomes.   
4. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: Organic farming can promote community farming, promoting local economic development.  – Farmer cooperatives and direct marketing initiatives strengthen local communities. 
5. GLOBAL RECOGNITION: India and its commitment to organic farming is enhancing its global reputation as a provider of sustainable agricultural practices. Increased demand for organic products internationally can benefit the Indian economy.  

Although organic farming holds the promise of a sustainable and ecological farming system, overcoming challenges such as awareness, high initial investment and market access are crucial for its widespread success in India. Government support through policy, research and financial incentives can play a key role in fostering a thriving organic agriculture sector that benefits both the environment and the livelihoods of Indian farmers.

CULTIVATING SUSTAINIBILITY: A CLOSER LOOK AT ORGANIC FARMING SCHEMES BY THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

The Indian government has implemented various schemes to encourage and support the transition to organic farming, recognizing its potential to address issues such as soil degradation, water contamination, and the overall health of the agricultural ecosystem.

• National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA):

Launched in 2010, NMSA aims to promote organic farming practices by providing financial assistance to farmers. Schemes under NMSA include the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), which encourages the adoption of organic farming through the cluster approach.

2. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY):

   PKVY promotes traditional and organic farming by forming clusters of farmers. Financial assistance is provided for inputs such as organic manure, bio-fertilizers, vermicompost, and training programs.

   – The scheme emphasizes the use of indigenous seeds and discourages the use of chemical fertilizers.

3. National Project on Organic Farming (NPOF):

 Initiated in 2004, NPOF aims to promote organic farming throughout the country.It focuses on capacity building, research and development, and creating awareness about the benefits of organic farming.

4. Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (OVCDNER):

Recognizing the potential of the northeastern region in organic farming, OVCDNER was launched to support the entire value chain from production to marketing. This scheme aims to boost the income of farmers in the region while promoting sustainable and organic agricultural practices.

5. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY):

   While not exclusively an organic farming scheme, PMKSY supports the efficient use of water resources, indirectly benefiting organic farmers who rely on sustainable water management practices.

The Indian government’s organic farming schemes are crucial in addressing the environmental and health challenges associated with conventional agriculture. By promoting organic practices, these initiatives contribute to soil fertility, reduce water contamination, and enhance the overall resilience of the agricultural sector. As more farmers embrace organic farming, the nation moves closer to a sustainable and ecologically friendly future.

ROLE OF PLANT VARIETY PROTECTION (PVP)

Plant Variety Protection (PVP) plays a crucial role in the realm of organic farming, serving as a linchpin for sustainable agricultural practices. Organic farming emphasizes ecological balance and the use of natural resources, eschewing synthetic chemicals and genetically modified organisms. In this context, PVP emerges as a key player, contributing to the preservation and enhancement of plant biodiversity, ensuring the availability of diverse and resilient crops for organic farmers.

One of the primary functions of PVP in organic farming is the safeguarding of traditional and heirloom crop varieties. These varieties often possess unique traits such as resistance to pests and diseases, adaptation to local climates, and enhanced nutritional profiles. By legally protecting these plant varieties, PVP fosters the conservation of genetic diversity, preventing the erosion of valuable traits that may be crucial for organic agriculture’s success.

Moreover, PVP encourages investment in research and development focused on organic crops. The protection granted to plant breeders encourages them to explore and innovate in the realm of organic farming, leading to the creation of varieties specifically tailored for organic systems. These varieties may exhibit traits like improved pest resistance, greater nutrient efficiency, and enhanced adaptability to organic farming practices, thereby contributing to the overall sustainability of organic agriculture.

PVP also plays a pivotal role in facilitating fair compensation for plant breeders, incentivizing them to invest time and resources in developing new organic crop varieties. This financial encouragement stimulates a cycle of continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring that the organic farming sector has access to cutting-edge plant varieties that align with its principles.

Furthermore, PVP serves as a legal framework that protects farmers from unauthorized use of proprietary organic varieties. This ensures that the benefits derived from organic plant breeding efforts are not unfairly exploited, providing a level playing field for both breeders and farmers engaged in organic agriculture.

The role of Plant Variety Protection in organic farming is multifaceted. It acts as a guardian of genetic diversity, a catalyst for research and development in organic crop breeding, a mechanism for fair compensation, and a shield against unauthorized use of proprietary varieties. By fostering these aspects, PVP contributes significantly to the sustainability, resilience, and success of organic farming systems.

CONCLUSION

It can be stated that the central role of plant variety protection (PVP) in organic agriculture is becoming a cornerstone of sustainable agricultural practices. By protecting the rights of plant breeders and promoting biodiversity, PVP not only promotes innovation, but also ensures the availability of diverse and sustainable crops essential to organic agriculture. This harmonious synergy between intellectual property rights and principles of organic agriculture cultivates a sustainable agricultural landscape and promotes a balance between environmental protection and agricultural excellence. Considering the complexity of modern agriculture, recognizing and accepting the role of PVP is a necessary step towards a future where organic agriculture is a sign of ecological responsibility and food security.

REFERENCES

1. https://chat.openai.com/auth/login?next=%2Fc%2F4664d1ad-a779-476e-a833-b0b0fc048609
2. https://blog.agribazaar.com/organic-farming-measures-by-indian-government/