Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) is a farming method that is based on the principles of natural farming and aims to eliminate the use of synthetic inputs, such as chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Instead, it relies on natural practices and techniques to improve soil health and increase crop productivity.
The goal of ZBNF is to promote sustainable agriculture that is both environmentally friendly and economically viable. Some of the key principles of ZBNF include:
Use of local resources: ZBNF promotes the use of local resources, such as cow dung and urine, to improve soil health and fertility.
Use of natural pest control methods: ZBNF advocates the use of natural pest control methods, such as crop rotation and intercropping, to manage pests and diseases.
Promotes biodiversity: ZBNF promotes the use of a diverse range of crops and plants to create a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
Promotes water conservation: ZBNF emphasizes the importance of conserving water through the use of techniques such as mulching and drip irrigation.
ZBNF has gained popularity in India in recent years, and it has been endorsed by the Indian government as a sustainable farming method. However, some critics argue that it may not be suitable for all farming systems and that it may not always provide sufficient yields to meet the needs of farmers.