Bhubaneswar, 2 April (H.S.): In light of the negative impact of chemical fertilizers, Prasanna Acharya, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition, raised a demand in the Odisha Assembly for promoting organic farming. In the absence of the Agriculture Minister, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan responded on behalf of the government, stating that the state government is taking various steps to encourage organic farming.

During the Question Hour in the Assembly, Prasanna Acharya highlighted the excessive use of pesticides in crops, which is degrading soil quality and contributing to the spread of diseases like cancer. He urged the state government to make proper arrangements for organic farming.

In response, Minister Harichandan explained that the first step is to convince farmers that even with reduced pesticide use, organic farming will maintain soil fertility and yield comparable crop production. He also mentioned that the state government is promoting organic farming under the Organic Farming Mission and making continuous efforts in this direction. The Minister further emphasized the government's commitment to increasing the area under organic farming.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda