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National Agriculture Code (NAC)

What is the National Agriculture Code (NAC)?

The National Agriculture Code (NAC) is a comprehensive framework being developed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to standardize agricultural practices across India. Modeled on existing codes such as the National Building Code and the National Electrical Code, the NAC aims to enhance the quality, sustainability, and efficiency of agriculture in the country.

Why is the NAC in the News?

Recently, the BIS has initiated the process of formulating the NAC to address gaps in agricultural standards and to promote best practices in farming. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for standardized practices in key agricultural processes, especially given the diverse agro-climatic conditions across India. The code is expected to provide farmers, agricultural universities, and field officials with clear guidelines, ultimately fostering a culture of quality in Indian agriculture.

Why is There a Need for the NAC?

1. Existing Gaps in Standards:

While BIS currently sets standards for agricultural machinery and inputs, there are no comprehensive standards for critical agricultural practices, such as field preparation, irrigation methods, and micro-irrigation. The NAC will fill these gaps.

2. Quality Assurance:

The NAC aims to promote a quality culture within Indian agriculture, ensuring that farmers adhere to best practices that can lead to increased productivity and sustainability.

3. Diverse Agricultural Practices:

India’s varied agro-climatic zones and diverse crop types necessitate a standardized approach to farming that accommodates regional differences while maintaining high quality.

4. Support for Farmers:

By providing a comprehensive guide, the NAC will assist farmers in making informed decisions about agricultural practices, leading to better yields and resource management.

5. Alignment with Modern Practices:

The NAC will incorporate modern techniques, including natural and organic farming practices and the use of technology like IoT, ensuring that Indian agriculture keeps pace with global advancements.

6. Policy Integration:

The code will serve as a reference for policymakers and regulators, enabling the incorporation of its provisions into various schemes and regulations, thereby fostering a more structured agricultural policy framework.

Key Features of the National Agriculture Code

1. Comprehensive Coverage:

The NAC will address the entire agricultural cycle, including critical processes such as:

-Crop selection

-Land preparation

-Sowing and transplanting

-Irrigation and drainage

-Soil and plant health management

-Harvesting and threshing

-Primary processing and post-harvest operations

-Sustainability practices

-Record maintenance

2. Input Management Standards:

The code will include guidelines for the management of agricultural inputs, encompassing:

-Chemical fertilizers

-Pesticides and weedicides

-Crop storage and traceability

3. Emerging Practices:

The NAC will also address new areas such as:

-Natural and organic farming

-The use of Internet-of-Things (IoT) technology in agriculture

4. Structure of the Code:

The NAC will be divided into two parts:

-Part 1: General principles applicable to all crops.

-Part 2: Crop-specific standards for major crops like paddy, wheat, oilseeds, and pulses.

Objectives of the National Agriculture Code

1. Implementable National Code:

Develop a practical framework that considers agroclimatic zones, crop types, and the socio-economic diversity of the agrifood value chain.

2. Promoting a Quality Culture:

Facilitate the integration of quality standards into policies and schemes by providing references for policymakers, agricultural departments, and regulators.

3. Decision-Making Guide:

Serve as a comprehensive resource for farmers, enabling informed decisions regarding agricultural practices.

4. Integration of Standards:

Align relevant Indian standards with recommended agricultural practices to ensure coherence and effectiveness.

5. Addressing Horizontal Aspects:

Focus on broader themes such as SMART farming, sustainability, traceability, and documentation.

6. Capacity Building:

Support capacity-building initiatives organized by agricultural extension services and civil society organizations, ensuring effective implementation and outreach.

Conclusion

The formulation of the National Agriculture Code by BIS is a significant step towards modernizing Indian agriculture. By standardizing practices and incorporating emerging technologies, the NAC aims to enhance productivity, sustainability, and quality in the agricultural sector. This initiative not only addresses existing gaps in agricultural standards but also sets the stage for a more resilient and informed farming community across the diverse agro-climatic regions of India.

About the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the National Standard Body of India, established under the BIS Act of 2016. It is responsible for the harmonious development of standardization, marking, and quality certification of goods. BIS plays a critical role in promoting quality assurance across various sectors, ensuring consumer protection, and facilitating international trade.