A Study on the Financing Pattern of Organic Farming in Kannur

Abstract

India contributes a major share in the world’s agriculture production. Though the agricultural sector is growing, several studies indicate that farmers as well as agriculture labourers are not encouraging the younger generation to take up farming as an enterprise to earn a livelihood security. The situation in Kerala is also not different. Thus by considering the safe food habits, life style and attitude of the people, authorities think of introducing alternative farming systems which are also financially viable. Organic farming is one such alternative farming system which copes up with the requirements of the changing food habits of the people. The main factor which pulls back the younger generation from organic farming is due to lack of support by way of necessary financing scheme or inadequate knowledge about it. If banks, government and other agencies come forward with more attractive schemes for supporting organic agriculture, we can witness a considerable increase in the Organic food production. Though financing schemes or technical supports are available for organic farming, small and medium farmers are deprived of it or unaware about such support systems. Present study found that majority of the organic farmers strives with their own savings as working capital and there is less support from the government and other agencies by way of special financing schemes for organic farming.