Bio-Input Resource Centers (BRCs) are cluster-level enterprises designed to support local production, availability, and supply of ready-to-use bio-inputs for natural farming . They aim to aid farmers who may not be able to produce these inputs individually and to disseminate knowledge and experience related to natural farming .
Key Functions and Objectives:
- Local Production and Supply: BRCs produce and provide bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides, and other organic formulations tailored to local needs .
- Knowledge Hubs: They serve as centers for training and guiding farmers on natural farming practices .
- Scaling Up Natural Farming: BRCs aim to promote the scaling up of natural farming practices across villages by ensuring the availability of quality inputs and region-specific formulations .
- Support for Transition: BRCs help farmers facing challenges while transitioning to natural or organic farming .
- Customized Inputs: Bio-inputs are prepared based on the requirements of local farmers, land-use patterns, soil types, and crop systems .
Guidelines and Support:
- Financial Assistance: The government provides financial assistance of ₹1 lakh per BRC, disbursed in two installments of ₹50,000 each . This assistance excludes costs related to sheds, land rental, or permanent infrastructure .
- Eligibility: BRCs should be run by entrepreneur groups already practicing natural farming . If there are no members initially practicing natural farming, the state natural farming cell will identify and onboard farmers willing to transition .
- Affordability: The cost of bio-inputs sold at BRCs must be affordable for all types of farmers, including small and marginal farmers .
- Integration with Other Schemes: BRCs are encouraged to integrate with other schemes and programs, such as the Formation and Promotion of 10,000 FPOs and the National Mission on Edible Oilseeds, to mobilize farmers and raise awareness .
National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF):
- Purpose: BRCs are established under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), which promotes sustainable agriculture by reducing dependence on chemical inputs .
- Objectives of NMNF:
- Promote natural farming to ensure safe and nutritious food .
- Reduce dependence on external chemical inputs and lower cultivation costs .
- Build healthy soil ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and enhance climate resilience .
Overall Significance:
- Cluster-Based Efforts: BRCs promote cluster-based collective efforts, enhancing access to markets and reducing costs .
- Sustainable Ventures: BRCs are intended to be sustainable ventures supporting local economies .
- Challenges: Experts suggest that the financial assistance may be inadequate for successfully setting up and running a BRC . The success of BRCs depends on consistent end-to-end support, including backward and forward linkages, especially in the initial years .
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