<p>Growing health concerns and increasing global interest in sustainable practices have positioned organic farming as a vital alternative to conventional agriculture. The North Eastern (NE) region of India, with its longstanding tradition of natural farming, holds considerable potential for organic agriculture. This traditional foundation offers a relatively smooth transition to certified organic practices. However, several barriers continue to hinder progress. Key challenges include an unorganised organic sector, limited market access, inadequate technological support, and a complex certification process. These issues disproportionately affect poor and marginal farmers. Drawing on a field study, this article examines the current state of organic farming in the NE region and proposes a roadmap to address these challenges. It emphasises the need for infrastructure development, capacity-building, institutional strengthening, and integration of local trading communities into formal supply chains. Addressing these areas can help the NE region realise its potential in sustainable agriculture and improve its standing in domestic and global organic markets.</p>

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Organic farming in Northeast India: barriers and prospects

  • Bhaskar Kumar Kakati

摘要

Growing health concerns and increasing global interest in sustainable practices have positioned organic farming as a vital alternative to conventional agriculture. The North Eastern (NE) region of India, with its longstanding tradition of natural farming, holds considerable potential for organic agriculture. This traditional foundation offers a relatively smooth transition to certified organic practices. However, several barriers continue to hinder progress. Key challenges include an unorganised organic sector, limited market access, inadequate technological support, and a complex certification process. These issues disproportionately affect poor and marginal farmers. Drawing on a field study, this article examines the current state of organic farming in the NE region and proposes a roadmap to address these challenges. It emphasises the need for infrastructure development, capacity-building, institutional strengthening, and integration of local trading communities into formal supply chains. Addressing these areas can help the NE region realise its potential in sustainable agriculture and improve its standing in domestic and global organic markets.