The National Agriculture Code: A New Era of Standardization in Indian Agriculture

What is the National Agriculture Code (NAC)?

The NAC is an initiative being developed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) intended to establish a comprehensive set of guidelines for various agricultural practices. Much like the National Building Code and National Electrical Code, it aims to standardize agriculture across India.

Why is there a need for the NAC?

At present, many agricultural activities lack adequate coverage under existing standards, particularly in critical areas such as fertilization, pesticide usage, and irrigation. The NAC is designed to address these gaps, offering a structured framework that promotes quality, sustainability, and efficiency in agricultural practices.

What areas will the NAC cover?

The NAC is set to encompass a variety of sectors, including:

• Standards for machinery, inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, and practices including organic farming.
• Input management, focusing on the responsible use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
• Incorporation of new technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time monitoring of weather and crops.
• Emerging practices relating to post-harvest operations, crop storage, and traceability.

What are the stated objectives of the NAC?

The NAC aims to achieve several key objectives:

• Developing a practical code for agricultural practices with actionable recommendations.
• Boosting productivity through the integration of new technologies and innovative practices.
• Creating a comprehensive framework that addresses regional differences in agricultural processes.
• Facilitating the adoption of standards among farmers and extension services.
• Integrating current standards with emerging agricultural practices.

What is the proposed timeline for the NAC?

The BIS has set a target to complete the draft of the NAC by October 2025. To finalize this draft, working panels comprising experts from universities, research and development organizations, and agricultural institutes have been established.

What are Standardised Agriculture Demonstration Farms (SADFs)?

SADFs are experimental sites set up by the BIS within agricultural institutes to trial and implement new practices in accordance with the NAC. These sites serve as valuable resources for farmers to learn about and adopt innovative methods based on the standards established by the code.

How will the NAC benefit farmers?

The NAC is poised to offer standardized guidance for various farming activities, leading to enhanced crop yields, more efficient use of inputs, and improved sustainability. Additionally, it will facilitate the adoption of modern technologies and practices, ultimately boosting the overall productivity of the agricultural sector.

How is the government promoting the NAC?

The BIS is actively collaborating with universities to educate farmers about the NAC and its standards. Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with educational institutions and agricultural bodies will help in testing the standards and providing support to farmers.

What role do SADFs play in the NAC initiative?

SADFs act as pilot locations for testing and demonstrating the various practices recommended under the NAC. This experiential learning enables farmers and industry stakeholders to observe the advantages of standardization prior to wider implementation.

How does the NAC align with the government’s agricultural vision?

The NAC is an integral part of the government's broader strategy to modernize agriculture in India. By establishing a standardized framework, it seeks to harmonize innovation with traditional practices, boosting productivity and improving market integration.