ICFA Working Group on Eco-Agriculture
Bio-agriculture has emerged as an inclusive term for any agricultural land that uses organic or biodynamic farming methods, with no synthetic fertilisers or agricultural chemicals. Bio agriculture aims to develop soil rich in humus and other essential nutrients. This becomes increasingly pertinent considering the declining soil quality parameters. Using special preparations to stimulate biological activity of the soil and plants, this type of farming has hence gained increasing acceptance worldwide. The techniques that are employed in this system of farming ranges from application of composts containing biodynamic preparations, bio-stimulants, bio-fertilisers, bio-pesticides, use of cover crops, green manuring, crop rotation and companion planting.
Bio agriculture ensures the health of both local and global ecosystems. Independent research conducted over 20 years has shown that bio-dynamic practices continuously increase the fertile humus layer of the soil, important for ecosystems longterm health. Bio-dynamic farming produces safe, healthy and tasty products. Long-term soil fertility is enhanced through the bio-dynamics preparations and using bio-products made from manure, medicinal plants and natural sources. This method of farming produces commodities that fetch a premium price at global as well as local markets, owing to the abstinence from engaging chemicals. The agri-input industry globally is focusing great deal on bringing newer research based bio-input products to stimulate crop production and protecting crops. International Conference on Bio-Agriculture organized by ICFA thus becomes a signicant step towards bringing together all the stakeholders on a single platform to deliberate upon issues and strategies towards popularizing this concept and discussing business opportunities for biproducts, including bio-stimulants and bio-pesticides.
The Conference aims at achieving the following specific objectives:
