In present times, food security and sustainable development have come into prime focus in India. On the one hand, the world requires adequate food supply for its burgeoning population, while on the other the implementation of proper agricultural methodology is also required to save our fragile ecosystem. Organic farming holds great promise in India, where agriculture provides livelihood to almost two-thirds of the workforce in the country and accounts for 18% of India's GDP. Organic farming can play a crucial role in the country's food trade as well as ensure greater financial security for Indian farmers.
 
Recently, a report published by Greenpeace has revealed that the monetary benefits of organic farming are much greater than the genetically engineered variety, which ultimately makes farmers more vulnerable to financial collapse due to high debts and increased costs of cultivation. The report titled "Picking Cotton" also showed that in the year 2009-10, the farmers cultivating cotton through organic practices earned 200% more net income than the farmers who grew genetically engineered cotton [Bt cotton].
 
It is true that the input costs of genetically engineered techniques are higher. In this technique, there is a higher risk of losing crops to pests. On the other hand, organic farming relies on crop rotation, crop residues, animal manures, bio fertilisers and mechanical cultivation to maintain soil productivity, supply plant nutrients and control weeds, insects, diseases and other pests. All these techniques are ultimately cost effective and helpful in productivity.
 
Now, the question that remains is how organic farming gives Indian farmers greater financial security.
 
Organic farming in tropical environment

Organic farming is an ideal option for rain-fed, marginal land and hilly areas. Especially, this farming is important for areas suffering from the problems like soil erosion and scanty water-supply. North-eastern India for instance is ideal for organic farming due to its topography, demography and prevailing socio-economic conditions. This technique will help the farmers in those areas to minimise loss and enjoy financial security. 
 
Organic farming and plant protection

One of the major problems that Indian farmers face is plant protection against the ravages of pests, diseases and weeds. Generally, the use of pesticides for plant protection poses greater risk. In addition, it is true that crop productivity has declined or failed to rise in many areas where chemical inputs were used. On the other hand, organic farming mostly uses natural inputs and therefore, organic agricultural harvests are deemed to be completely safe for the human body system. Besides, organic farming provides a better solution for Indian farmers, as most of these farmers cannot afford the costly chemical solution based farming techniques.
 
Organic farming and crop productivity

Organic farming is based upon an integrated relationship between soil, minerals, water, plants, micro flora, insects, animals and human beings. It successfully reconciles food production and environmental conservation. Organic farming relies on local human resources and knowledge to enhance natural resource processes. By following the organic farming method, it is possible to reduce dependence on off-farm inputs, increase food security and generate additional income. Organic farming responds positively to all sustainable agriculture and rural development objectives and helps in maintaining soil fertility to improve crop production and socio-economic conditions of the farmers.
 
In the past six years, organic farming has made strong headway in Indian agriculture. As per a study, in 2009-10, organic farming under certification has grown to 10.5 lakh hectare, out of which nearly 7.5 lakh hectare is fully certified and remaining 3 lakh hectare is under various stages of conversion. 
 
Presently, the government is also taking several initiatives to promote organic farming. Some states in India are also drafting policies for the promotion of organic farming. Therefore, it can be expected that Indian agriculture will be able to adopt 100% organic farming in near future, which will ultimately secure the right financial conditions for Indian farmers.