Online Course on Natural Farming:
Today, I successfully completed the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on “Natural Farming – Principles and Practices” offered by the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad. I also received my certificate of completion, and I must say this program has been a truly enriching experience.
Being a Master Trainer on Natural Farming, I have been associated with training farmers and extension personnel on the principles of natural and sustainable agriculture. Yet, this course has broadened my perspective, strengthened my technical knowledge, and provided me with global case studies and scientific insights that will surely help me create more impact in the farming community.
About MANAGE and the Online Course on Natural Farming MOOC
MANAGE is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. Its mandate is to strengthen the agricultural extension system through training, research, policy advocacy, and by promoting agripreneurs and agri-startups.
To promote natural farming nationwide, MANAGE has been designated as the Knowledge Partner under the National Mission on Natural Farming. With support from GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), MANAGE launched the MOOC on Natural Farming – Principles and Practices during 2025–26.
This free online course aims to educate, inspire, and equip farmers, extension officers, NGOs, startups, and anyone passionate about natural farming with the knowledge required to build a sustainable food system.
Online Course on Natural Farming Structure and Content:
The course is spread across 12 weeks and includes 36 topics in the form of videos, PPTs, and reading material. The content has been developed with contributions from experts, practitioners, and development professionals working on the ground.
Some of the key areas covered in the program are:
- Principles and Philosophy of Natural Farming
- Landscape-based integrated models of natural farming
- Role of Gram Panchayats and community institutions
- Integration of livestock, fisheries, agroforestry, and apiculture in natural farming
- Soil biodiversity, soil fertility, and bio-inoculants
- Indigenous seed systems and farmer-led enterprises
- Plant protection, weed, and water management in natural farming
- Climate change adaptation and resilience through natural farming
- Green enterprises, rural employment, and startups in natural farming
- Access to markets and certification for natural farming products
- Case studies and best practices from across India
The interactive platform also enabled participants to exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from success stories of practicing farmers, which made the program even more valuable.
Related Post: Reviving the Roots of Agriculture: Embracing Natural Farming in Sundargarh
My Learnings and Reflections:
This course has deepened my understanding of how natural farming can restore soil health, reduce input costs, conserve biodiversity, and enhance farmers’ incomes.
As someone already working closely with farmers, I realized that natural farming is not just a practice but a movement toward sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture. The modules on indigenous seed systems, bio-inputs, and integrated farming models particularly stood out for me.
I strongly believe that if more farmers, extension workers, and agri-entrepreneurs take this course, we can together create a ripple effect that will inspire thousands of farmers across India to adopt natural farming practices.
Who Can Join this Online Course on Natural Farming?
This program is open to:
- Extension functionaries of agriculture and allied departments
- Scientists from ICAR and KVK
- NGOs/CSOs working in natural farming
- Master Trainers, CRPs, Krishi Sakhis
- Champion/lead farmers and practicing farmers
- Agripreneurs and startups
- Anyone passionate about natural farming
- There is no age limit and no course fee.
Certification:
Participants who successfully complete the online test with a minimum score of 50% can download an e-certificate from the MOOC platform. This certificate is a valuable addition for professionals, trainers, and practitioners engaged in the promotion of natural farming.
Final Thoughts:
Completing this MOOC has not only enhanced my knowledge but also strengthened my mission to empower farmers with sustainable practices. Natural farming is the need of the hour, and I encourage all my readers—farmers, trainers, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts—to enroll in this course.
Let us work together to make agriculture profitable, sustainable, and resilient for generations to come.
Register for the upcoming Online Course on Natural Farming MOOC by MANAGE here (Registration starts from 01.07.2025 to 15.09.2025): Click here to Register
Author: Tapas Chandra Roy, Block Agriculture Officer, DA&FE, Govt. of Odisha. Documenting and disseminating success stories of farmers to inspire millions of farmers across India.
If you wish to submit any inspiring stories of farmers, you can send them to this email address: [email protected]. Please ensure your submission includes a Word document and high-resolution photographs.