Hyderabad.15.02.2026: Telangana natural farming has emerged as the largest in the country by coverage area, enrolling lakhs of farmers and expanding chemical-free cultivation across the state.
However, despite rapid expansion, the state continues to receive comparatively lower financial assistance from the Centre under the national natural farming programme.
Record Expansion Across the State
According to data presented in Parliament, Telangana natural farming now covers more land than any other state or Union Territory.
Figures from the Natural Farming Certification System (NFCS) as of February 4 show:
- 4.52 lakh farmers registered
- 5.53 lakh hectares under natural farming
- 1.17 lakh certificates issued
These figures place Telangana far ahead in acreage under chemical-free cultivation.
Comparison With Other States
Even states with a long history of organic farming remain far behind:
- Maharashtra – 1.47 lakh hectares
- Odisha – 36,089 hectares
- Chhattisgarh – 23,262 hectares
- Bihar – 23,482 hectares
Telangana alone accounts for nearly 40 percent of the national total of 11.86 lakh farmers practicing natural farming.
Certification Numbers Lag Behind
Despite covering the largest area, certification has not grown at the same pace in Telangana natural farming.
Maharashtra has issued 2.20 lakh certificates, almost double Telangana’s 1.17 lakh. Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Bihar follow with smaller numbers.
The data suggests the state has prioritised rapid expansion of farmland, while certification procedures are still catching up.
Lower Support Under Central Scheme
Under the National Mission on Natural Farming, the Centre provides ₹2,100 per hectare for two years towards certification and support activities.
Despite leading in coverage, Telangana received relatively modest allocations:
- ₹17.96 lakh in 2024–25
- ₹13.23 crore in 2025–26
Several other states — including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh — received between ₹30 crore and ₹50 crore during 2025–26.
Contrast Within Telugu States
The difference becomes clearer when compared with neighbouring Andhra Pradesh.
- Farmers enrolled: 13,074
- Area covered: 18,454 hectares
- Funds received: ₹11.62 crore
Despite far smaller coverage, Andhra Pradesh secured nearly ten times more funds relative to its area.
Why Certification Matters
Officials indicated the Centre is shifting focus from expansion alone to certified natural farming. This means Telangana natural farming growth may need faster certification to access higher allocations.
Certification allows farmers to receive premium prices and participate in organised markets. Without certification, the benefits of large-scale adoption may remain limited.
Key Highlights
- Telangana has the highest natural farming area in India
- Nearly 40% of national farmer enrolment
- Ranks second in certification numbers
- Receives lower central funding than many states
- Future funds may depend on certification progress
Impact on Farmers
The rapid growth of Telangana natural farming reflects strong farmer interest in reducing input costs and improving soil health.
However, slower certification could delay access to incentives, organised markets and price benefits. Experts say balanced growth — expansion along with certification — will be crucial for long-term sustainability.
For now, Telangana remains India’s largest natural farming hub, though funding support and certification speed will determine how far the programme benefits farmers.
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