NEW DELHI | August 16, 2026
PM Modi Calls for Chemical-Free Agriculture
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a major expansion of chemical-free farming in India, highlighting the growing global demand for food produced through sustainable and natural agricultural practices.
In his Independence Day address from the Red Fort on August 15, Modi urged farmers to focus not only on increasing agricultural production but also on connecting Indian farm products with international markets. He identified agriculture and food production as one of the key areas that can contribute to India’s development and global economic strength.
Focus on Global Markets
The Prime Minister said India should work towards developing stronger farm-to-export supply chains so that agricultural products can reach consumers around the world.
He particularly highlighted products such as millets, spices and fruits, which have significant potential in international markets. According to reports on his address, Modi linked chemical-free farming with rising global demand for such food products and encouraged farmers to take advantage of this opportunity.
The approach represents a shift from focusing solely on farm production towards building an integrated agricultural ecosystem covering cultivation, processing, branding and exports.
Chemical-Free Farming and Export Potential
Modi’s appeal comes as consumers in several international markets increasingly seek food produced using environmentally sustainable practices.
The Prime Minister called for chemical-free agriculture on a larger scale, arguing that Indian farmers can benefit from the expanding demand for such products globally. The government has previously promoted natural and organic farming through various programmes aimed at reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers and pesticides.
India’s existing policy framework includes support for chemical-free farming systems, including natural farming and organic farming initiatives. The government has described natural farming as an approach designed to reduce external agricultural inputs while supporting soil health and lowering cultivation costs.
Agriculture as a Pillar of Viksit Bharat
The push for chemical-free farming was part of Modi’s broader Independence Day vision for Viksit Bharat 2047.
The Prime Minister outlined a seven-pronged development framework, known as Sapta Dhara, covering areas including manufacturing, agriculture, technology, defence, energy and sustainable development. Agriculture was presented as an important pillar in India’s long-term transformation and its ambition to strengthen its position in global markets.
The government is also seeking greater value addition in agriculture so that farmers can benefit from opportunities beyond traditional domestic markets.
Greater Opportunities for Farmers
The emphasis on global agricultural markets could create opportunities for farmers involved in crops with strong export potential, particularly millets, spices, fruits and other products associated with sustainable farming.
Experts cited by IANS said the Prime Minister’s call to take agricultural products to global markets could provide additional opportunities for businesses working in the millet sector.
For India, the challenge will be to build reliable supply chains, maintain quality standards and ensure that farmers are able to participate effectively in export-oriented agriculture.
A Push Toward Sustainable Agriculture
Modi’s latest call places chemical-free farming within a broader strategy of combining agricultural sustainability with economic opportunity.
With global food markets increasingly focused on quality, sustainability and traceability, India is seeking to position its agricultural sector not only as a major producer but also as a competitive supplier to international consumers.
The Prime Minister’s message therefore links natural and chemical-free farming with a wider objective: increasing the global reach and economic value of Indian agriculture.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), IANS, Associated Press (AP), Times of India and NDTV Profit.
Original Report: Supreme News Network (SSN)
