VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

Jnana Sangama, Belagavi-590018

NSS Project Report on

“Organic farming, Indian Agriculture(Past, Present and Future)
Connectivity for marketing.”
Submitted in Partial fulfillment of the Requirements for the III Semester of the Degree of

Bachelor of Engineering in
Information Science and Engineering
By
MOHAMMED RAKSHAN (1CR23IS101)

Under the Guidance of,

Prof Poornima Manjunath , Assistant Professor , Dept. of ISE

CMR INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

1
 Affiliated to VTU, Approved by AICTE, Accredited by NBA and NAAC with “A++” Grade
ITPL MAIN ROAD, BROOKFIELD, BENGALURU-560037, KARNATAKA, INDIA

DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the NSS activity report work entitled “ Organic farming, Indian
Agriculture(past, present and future) Connectivity for marketing” has been carried out by
MOHAMMED RAKSHAN, (1CR23IS101) Bonafide students of CMR Institute of
Technology, Bengaluru in partial fulfillment for the award of the Degree of Bachelor of
Engineering in Information Science of the Visvesvaraya Technological University,
Belagavi during the year 2024-2025. It is certified that all corrections/suggestions indicated
for the Internal Assessment have been incorporated in the report deposited in the departmental
library. This NSS activity report has been approved as it satisfies the academic requirements
in respect of NSS activity work prescribed for the said Degree.

Signature of Faculty Signature of HOD

Professor & HOD
Prof Poornima
Dept. of ISE , CMRIT
Manjunath

Assistant Professor

Dept of ISE, CMRIT

2
 DECLARATION

MR.MOHAMMED RAKSHAN , hereby declare that the NSS activity report entitled “Organic
farming, Indian Agriculture(past, present and future) Connectivity for marketing” has been
carried out by us under the guidance of Prof. Poornima Manjunath Dept. of ISE,CMRIT, and
Muralidhara R, NSS Officer, CMR Institute of Technology, Bengaluru, in partial fulfilment of the
requirement for the degree of BACHELOR OF INFORMATION SCIENCE ENGINEERING, of
Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belgaum during the academic year 2024-2025. The work
done in this NSS activity report is original and it has not been submitted for any other degree in any
university.

Place: Bangalore

Date: 30-11-2023

MOHAMMED RAKSHAN(1CR23IS101)

3
 ABSTRACT

This abstract highlights the wide range of activities organized by Visvesvaraya Technological
University (VTU) through the National Service Scheme (NSS) to help students grow in
various ways. VTU's NSS programs aim to make students more responsible, better leaders,
and more connected to their communities. These activities cover many areas like protecting
the environment, spreading health awareness, promoting education, and supporting rural
development. By participating in these activities, students not only make a positive impact on
society but also develop personally and professionally. VTU's NSS activities are shaping
students into caring, socially aware individuals ready to tackle real-world challenges.

4
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude and respect to CMR Institute of
Technology, Bengaluru for providing me a platform to pursue my studies and carry out the
“Organic farming, Indian Agriculture(past, present and future) Connectivity for marketing”

It gives me an immense pleasure to express my deep sense of gratitude to Dr. Sanjay Jain,
Principal, CMRIT, Bengaluru, for his constant encouragement.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Dr. JAGADISHWARI V, HOD, Department of

Information Science and Engineering, CMRIT, Bengaluru, who has been a constant support and
encouragement throughout the course of this project.

I would like to thank my guide Prof. Poornima Manjunath and Muralidhara R, NSS
Officer, for the valuable guidance throughout the tenure of this NSS activity work.

I would also like to thank all the faculty members of Information Science and Engineering the who
directly or indirectly encouraged me.

Finally, I thank my parents and friends for all the moral support they have given me during the
completion of this work.

5
 GROUP MEMBER LIST

SL NO NAME OF STUDENT USN

01 MOHAMMMED RAKSHAN 1CR23IS101
02 R RAHUL 1CR23IS128
03 MIR RAQUIB RAZA 1CR23IS100
04 KESHAV J 1CR23IS069
05 MONISH N 1CR23IS104
06 KISHAN 1CR23IS080
07 MOKSHA GANESH 1CR23IS103
08 JITIKA SAHA 1CR23IS072
09 SHARMISHTA 1CR23IS129
10 KUSUM 1CR23IS085

6
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Contents Page
No
INTRODUCTION
1

ABOUT THE PROJECT

2-9

CONCLUSION
10

REFERENCE
11

7
 INTRODUCTION

Organic farming is a way of growing plants naturally without using chemicals like synthetic
fertilizers or pesticides. Instead, it uses compost, natural manure, and other organic methods to make
the soil healthy. This helps plants grow strong and keeps the environment clean. Organic farming
focuses on working with nature to grow food that is safe and healthy for people and the planet.

Organic farming is a sustainable agricultural system that emphasizes natural methods to maintain soil
fertility, control pests, and promote ecological balance. It avoids synthetic chemicals, relying on
organic inputs such as compost, green manure, and biological pest control. Organic farming not only
conserves biodiversity but also ensures the production of chemical-free, healthier food, making it an
essential part of environmentally conscious agriculture

The principle behind organic farming is rooted in harmony with nature. It operates on the belief that
farming should work with natural systems rather than trying to control or exploit them. By using
organic fertilizers and natural pest control methods, it seeks to maintain the health of the soil, the
plants, and the ecosystem as a whole. Organic farming embodies the principle of sustainability,
ensuring that resources like soil and water are preserved for future generations. Similarly, the
principle behind improved marketing connectivity is fairness and inclusivity, where farmers are
empowered to sell their produce directly to markets, ensuring equitable opportunities and better
earnings.

Studying the topic of organic farming and agricultural connectivity is valuable because it connects us
to the fundamental aspects of life: food, nature, and sustainability. It helps us understand how our
food is grown, the impact of agriculture on the environment, and the challenges faced by farmers.
This knowledge encourages us to make informed choices as consumers, such as supporting organic
and sustainable farming practices that are healthier for both people and the planet.

By comparing the two types of farming organic is better ,Conventional farming relies on synthetic
chemicals and industrial practices to maximize yield, whereas organic farming emphasizes natural
methods and sustainable practices to promote soil health and reduce environmental impact.

In recent years, organic farming has gained recognition as a sustainable alternative to conventional
agricultural practices. This approach focuses on maintaining ecological balance, preserving
biodiversity, and utilizing natural inputs. By prioritizing environmental sustainability and human
health, organic farming provides a solution to many modern agricultural challenges. It is not merely a
revival of traditional methods, but rather a fusion of time-tested knowledge and contemporary
agricultural science.

The main intention of this project is to promote sustainable agricultural practices by emphasizing the
significance of organic farming and enhancing market connectivity for farmers. The project aims to
showcase how organic farming, rooted in natural and eco-friendly methods, can lead to healthier
food production, environmental conservation, and long-term agricultural sustainability.

8
 ABOUT THE PROJECT
This project aims to explore and promote organic farming as a sustainable alternative to conventional
agricultural practices. Our idea is to highlight how organic farming not only improves environmental
sustainability but also enhances human health by using natural inputs and maintaining ecological
balance. Through this project, we intend to combine our experiences and knowledge to demonstrate
the advantages of organic methods, such as soil health, biodiversity, and long-term productivity.

In 2020, Nagaraj arrived in Muthsandra with the goal of establishing a farm. He acquired a piece of
land, cleared the eucalyptus plantations, and started a small farming venture. Initially, he adopted
conventional farming methods, relying heavily on chemical supplements. However, he soon realized
the harmful effects of these practices and decided to transition to a more sustainable approach, which
is now recognized as organic farming. He gradually reduced the use of chemicals, focusing instead
on soil health and natural pest management.

Soil, a crucial element in farming, had been severely depleted due to years of reckless human
activities. Pollution, along with the excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, had damaged the soil,

9
which takes years to regenerate. When Nagaraj converted his farm to organic methods, he committed
to avoiding any chemicals and instead relied solely on what nature provided. He used manure to
restore and enhance the soil’s fertility, working to heal and rejuvenate it. Understanding that soil
regeneration is a slow process, he was determined to restore it in a way that would take many years
to fully recover, but would ultimately benefit the land for generations to come.

Termites, known for consuming decaying plant materials like wood, leaf litter, and humus, can be
utilized to enrich the soil. The partially digested plant matter that termites leave behind can be added
to the soil, improving its quality and replenishing nutrients.
Another practice Nagaraj adopted was encouraging worm growth in the soil. This allowed worms to
naturally produce vermicompost, which further enriched the soil. To maintain balance, he refrained
from using insecticides, instead cultivating trees on the farm to attract birds that feed on the worms,
helping keep the worm population in check.

Recognizing the natural properties of his soil, Nagaraj embraced termites as part of his strategy to
improve soil quality, alongside the use of vermiculture. The trees on his farm also supported a
thriving population of honey bees, aiding in the pollination of his crops.By creating a diverse
ecosystem, Nagaraj has introduced five beehives and welcomed various bird species to his farm, all
of which help control insect pests that could damage his crops.

Over the past four years, Nagaraj has seen significant improvements in the landscape, with areas
once dominated by bushes now transformed into thriving crop fields. Although there were initial
challenges, such as the six-to-eight-month wait for crops to mature, he now successfully grows 25
different types of crops throughout the year. These include lettuce, spinach, drumsticks, coriander,
cucumber, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, and many others.

To manage pests, he explored several techniques. He found that relying on mosquito coils had led to
pest resistance, so he began intercropping leguminous plants with his main crops. This method not
only maximized space but also improved soil health and reduced pest populations. Throughout the
year, Nagaraj grows a variety of crops, from ladyfinger to channa and rajgiri, catering to different
markets, especially in North Karnataka for channa , as well as serving a loyal base of health-
conscious customers.

10
Why Organic farming important in real life

Organic farming is important in real life for several key reasons:

1. Healthier Food: Organic farming produces food without synthetic chemicals, reducing the
risk of harmful pesticide residues in the food we eat, leading to healthier diets for individuals
and communities.
2. Environmental Protection: Organic practices help protect the environment by reducing
pollution, conserving water, and promoting soil health, ensuring that the land remains fertile
for future generations.
3. Biodiversity Conservation: Organic farming encourages a diverse range of crops and
supports ecosystems, helping preserve wildlife, pollinators, and beneficial insects that play
essential roles in natural pest control and crop pollination.
4. Sustainable Agriculture: By relying on natural methods and inputs, organic farming
promotes long-term sustainability, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and harmful
chemicals, and creating a more resilient agricultural system.
5. Economic Benefits for Farmers: Organic farming can offer farmers higher market prices for
their products, direct access to niche markets, and the opportunity to reduce costs associated
with synthetic chemicals, benefiting their economic wellbeing.
6. Climate Change Mitigation: Organic farming practices like soil carbon sequestration help
mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the soil’s
ability to store carbon.
Overall, organic farming is a key component in creating a healthier, more sustainable food system
that benefits individuals, communities, and the environment.

Core Principles of Organic Farming : Soil Health: Focus on maintaining and enhancing soil
fertility through practices like composting, crop rotation, and green manuring.
1. Biodiversity: Promoting diverse cropping systems to support ecosystems and natural pest
control.
2. Natural Inputs: Using organic fertilizers, bio-pesticides, and traditional methods to avoid
environmental contamination.
3. Animal Welfare: Ensuring humane treatment of farm animals by providing them natural
living conditions and organic feed.
4. Sustainability: Striving for long-term environmental health, economic viability, and social
equity.
Practices in Organic Farming
 Crop Rotation: Planting different crops in sequential seasons to improve soil health and
reduce pest outbreaks.
 Composting: Recycling organic waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer.
 Biological Pest Control: Using natural predators and biological methods to manage pests.
 Agroforestry: Integrating trees and shrubs into farming systems for soil stability and

11
 microclimate improvement.
 Organic Certification: Following strict guidelines to certify produce as organic, ensuring
consumer trust.

Indian Agriculture: Past, Present, and Future

Past: In the past, Indian agriculture was largely traditional, with farmers relying on natural methods
to grow crops. Organic farming, in a sense, was the norm, as farmers used cow dung, compost, and
crop residues as fertilizers and depended on rainfall for irrigation. There was minimal use of
chemicals, and the agricultural system was closely aligned with nature’s cycles. Farmers practiced
crop rotation, intercropping, and other sustainable methods to maintain soil fertility and pest control.

Key Organic Practices in the Past:

 Use of natural fertilizers like cow dung and compost.
 Rain-fed agriculture with minimal irrigation.
 Crop rotation and traditional pest management methods.

Present: In recent years, conventional farming practices have shifted towards more industrial
methods, with the widespread use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and machinery. While this has
led to increased crop production, it has also caused soil degradation, water pollution, and health
hazards. The growing awareness of these environmental and health issues has sparked a renewed
interest in organic farming. More farmers are now returning to traditional organic practices or
integrating them with modern technology to ensure sustainability.

Key Organic Practices in the Present:

 Transition to Organic Farming: Many farmers are shifting from chemical-based practices
to organic farming, using natural inputs like compost, organic fertilizers, and biopesticides.
 Soil Health Management: Practices like composting, green manuring, and vermicomposting
are being adopted to restore soil fertility and structure.
 Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Instead of chemical pesticides, organic farming
promotes biological pest control, crop diversification, and use of natural repellents.

Future: The future of Indian agriculture will see a stronger focus on sustainability, with organic
farming at the forefront. The integration of technology, such as sensors, mobile apps, and precision
farming, will allow farmers to optimize organic farming practices, improve yields, and reduce waste.
There will be an increased emphasis on organic certification, fair trade, and market access for
organic produce. The adoption of eco-friendly farming techniques will be essential to tackle
challenges like soil erosion, water scarcity, and climate change.

Key Organic Strategies for the Future:

12
  Smart Farming Technologies: Use of digital tools like mobile apps and IoT (Internet of
Things) devices to monitor soil health, water usage, and pest control.
 Agroecology: A focus on creating diversified, resilient farming systems that mimic natural
ecosystems to improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and reduce the need for synthetic
chemicals.
 Market and Policy Support: Enhanced support for farmers through better market linkages
for organic products, fair pricing, and government policies that promote organic certification
and subsidies.
 Climate Resilient Organic Practices: Adoption of organic farming methods that help
mitigate climate change impacts, such as using drought-resistant crops and water-efficient
irrigation systems.

Key Points for a Sustainable Future in Organic Farming:

 Focus on soil regeneration through organic practices like composting and mulching.
 Increased use of biological pest control and natural fertilizers.
 Expansion of organic certification to ensure consumer trust and support for organic markets.
 Technology integration for efficient farm management and improved yields.
 Government and community support for farmers transitioning to organic methods, ensuring
long-term agricultural sustainability.

Global and Indian Context

 Globally, organic farming has gained popularity due to growing awareness of environmental
and health concerns. In India, organic farming has deep cultural and traditional roots. Modern
efforts in India focus on revitalizing these methods while meeting global standards. States
like Sikkim have achieved remarkable success in becoming fully organic, inspiring others to
adopt similar practices.
 Organic farming represents not just a return to sustainable agricultural practices but a
necessary step towards ensuring food security, environmental preservation, and economic
stability for future generations.

13
As youth, engaging with organic farming has taught us valuable lessons about sustainability,
responsibility, and the importance of connecting with nature. Through this experience, we've learned
how farming practices can directly impact the environment, health, and economy. We now
understand the significance of soil health, biodiversity, and the use of natural resources in farming.
This journey has inspired us to think critically about the food we consume, the methods of
production, and how we can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. By embracing
organic farming, we have discovered that small changes in our approach to agriculture can lead to
big improvements in the world around us, making us more conscious and responsible global citizens.
Importance of Sustainability: As youth and future engineers, we have learned the critical
importance of sustainability in agriculture. Organic farming practices not only protect the
environment but also contribute to long-term soil health and biodiversity. This experience has
highlighted how we can apply engineering solutions to promote sustainable agricultural practices.

 Innovation and Technology: We’ve learned that modern technologies, such as sensors, data
analytics, and mobile apps, can play a crucial role in improving farming efficiency while maintaining
organic standards. Engineers have a significant role in designing solutions that can help optimize
crop production, reduce water usage, and manage soil health effectively.

 Holistic Problem-Solving: This experience has taught us to view agricultural challenges from a
holistic perspective, combining technical knowledge with an understanding of natural systems.
Engineers can contribute to solutions that blend technology with traditional practices to create better,
more sustainable farming systems.

 Duty Towards Society: As youth and future engineers, we are now more aware of our
responsibility to society, especially in addressing issues like food security, environmental
degradation, and climate change. Engineers have the duty to innovate and create systems that not
only serve economic needs but also contribute to the well-being of communities and ecosystems.

14
 Collaboration with Nature: Through organic farming, we have learned the value of working in
harmony with nature rather than exploiting it. Engineers can apply this lesson in designing
technologies and systems that respect and preserve natural resources for future generations.

 Empathy and Awareness: Engaging with organic farming has also taught us the importance of
empathy, particularly towards farmers who are at the heart of food production. Understanding their
challenges and finding ways to support them through technology and sustainable practices is an
essential role for engineers in agriculture.

 Adapting and Innovating: As engineers, we have learned that it’s essential to continuously adapt
and innovate to tackle complex challenges in agriculture, particularly in ensuring the viability of
organic farming and enhancing its potential for the future.

As part of this project, our team had the opportunity to visit an organic farming field, where we
gained firsthand insights into the principles and practices of sustainable agriculture. The visit was an
enlightening experience, offering us a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of organic

15
farming.

During the field visit, we observed how organic farmers prioritize soil health, natural pest control,
and crop rotation to maintain ecological balance. Interacting with the farmers was particularly
inspiring, as they shared their experiences of transitioning from conventional to organic methods, the
hurdles they faced, and the benefits they now enjoy, including healthier produce and a positive
impact on the environment.

This experience underscored the importance of organic farming in promoting sustainability and
inspired us to think critically about how such practices can be scaled and supported through
marketing and policy initiatives.

As part of our project, our team had the incredible opportunity to visit an organic farming field,
which provided us with firsthand insights into the principles and practices of sustainable agriculture.
This visit was not just informative but also an inspiring experience, deepening our understanding of
both the challenges and rewards associated with organic farming.

The group photo captured during our visit symbolizes not just our teamwork and collaboration but
also our collective commitment to advocating for a sustainable agricultural future. It stands as a
reminder of the practical lessons we learned and the invaluable connections we made with the
organic farming community.

For me, the experience was a reminder of the interconnectedness between nature, farming, and food
production. It reinforced the idea that sustainable practices are not just a choice but a necessity for
the future of agriculture. The visit also made me reflect on the role we all play in supporting such
efforts—whether through conscious consumer choices, supporting local organic farms, or advocating
for policies that promote sustainable farming practices.

Interacting with the farmers was particularly inspiring. They shared their stories of transitioning from
conventional farming to organic methods, and it was clear that their journey had not been easy. There
were struggles with pests, adapting to new practices, and initially lower yields. But the pride they
took in their work and the positive impact it had on the environment and their community was
evident. They spoke about the rewards of growing healthy, chemical-free produce and how it has not
only improved their livelihoods but also created a better quality of life for those who consume their
crops.

16
 CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Organic farming holds significant importance due to its holistic approach to
agriculture, prioritizing environmental sustainability, human health, and animal welfare. By avoiding
synthetic chemicals and embracing natural methods, organic farming promotes biodiversity,
conserves water, and reduces pollution. Organic foods are generally lower in pesticide residues and
synthetic additives, potentially reducing health risks associated with conventional farming practices.
Additionally, organic farming supports healthier soils, which are essential for sustainable food
production. Furthermore, organic standards prioritize the humane treatment of animals, promoting
better animal welfare. Overall, organic farming plays a vital role in building a more sustainable and
resilient food system that benefits both people and the planet."

After visiting the Farmer’s Nest, we gained valuable insights into the principles and practices of
organic farming. Witnessing firsthand the cultivation of crops without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers,
highlighted the emphasis on environmental sustainability and natural resource management in
organic agriculture.

Firstly, as a consumer, we can choose to support organic products by purchasing them, thereby
creating demand and encouraging more farmers to adopt organic practices. Additionally, educating
ourselves and others about the benefits of organic farming can raise awareness and promote its
adoption. If we have access to land, we can consider starting our own organic garden or even
transitioning to organic farming practices. By volunteering or supporting organizations and initiatives
that promote organic farming, you can also help advocate for supportive policies, research, and
resources that contribute to the growth and sustainability of organic agriculture. Ultimately, our

17
individual choices and actions can make a meaningful difference in supporting and improving
organic farming practices

REFERENCES

1. Government of Karnataka - Department of Agriculture

The official government website often provides reports, statistics, and policies on organic
farming in Karnataka. The state has supported organic farming through various schemes and
initiatives.
• Website: Department of Agriculture, Karnataka

2. National Center of Organic Farming (NCOF)

NCOF, a government agency under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare,
provides guidelines, training, and research on organic farming. Their reports can offer
valuable insights into organic farming practices in Karnataka.

3. Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF)

OFRF focuses on advancing organic farming practices through research, education, and advocacy. It
provides grants and resources to support organic farmers and their efforts to improve sustainability.

4. Websites and Online Resources:

 National Agricultural Market (e-NAM) website
 Reports and statistics from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
 Organic farming resources and market reports from the International Federation of Organic
Agriculture Movements (IFOAM)

18
5. Field Visits and Expert Consultations:
 Interviews and discussions with organic farmers during field visits.
 Insights from agriculture experts and consultants in the field of sustainable farming.

19