Organic Farming in India: A Dual Strategy for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation

Abstract

Recent decades have transformed Indian agriculture from traditional methods to a mechanized system reliant on fossil fuels, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides, increasing greenhouse gas emissions and impacting global climate. Higher greenhouse gas levels, including carbon dioxide, methane, and ozone are likely, causing the observed rise in air temperatures and leading to significant climate shifts. In most subtropical regions, a 4°C rise in global temperatures is anticipated to reduce groundwater and surface water, heightening food demand and threatening global food security. Climate change denotes long-term, significant alterations in climate measurements. A production system that maintains the health of ecosystems, soils, and human populations is known as organic farming (IFOAM 2006). Organic farming is energy-efficient and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing chemical and fossil fuel use, while enhancing soil carbon, biodiversity and fertility. It reuses plant and animal waste to restore soil nutrients, relies on renewable resources and supports sustainable, low-pollution management. Organic farming not only helps to mitigate climate change but also provides lasting benefits as an adaptation strategy. Effective nutrient management and carbon sequestration in soils are crucial for adapting and mitigating climate change across diverse temperature zones and local conditions.