Category: Farm

Over the world growing population is becoming more day by day, the most important challenges have been to produce enough food for the growing population. Hence, highly yielding varieties are being used together with some natural resources like water and rain falls were helping to grown the food needs as well some of the pesticides fertilizers industries are also helping to produce the large quantity of food we need, some industries technology helping to develop food surplus. to feed growing population with required varieties. Our natural potential, destruction of the aerosphere and environment pollution leading result to manmade environment and posed threat to humankind, and climate changes are also the reasons for the modifications of natural resources, increasing the chemicals in the producing the agriculture needs. Due to chemical preparations, the land loses soil fertility, and pests appear due to frequent spraying that exceeds the safe level. New thoughts to be need for the sustainability development it needs the organic agriculture organic farming to make them trend. A critical evaluation exhibit organic farming system provide some solutions to the problems for the currently the agriculture sector of industrialized or green revolution countries. Organic farming in agriculture can provide a good food for the people without affecting the soil health and environment by that we can maintain agriculture benefits in economically, socially and eco-friendly, and there is an urgent need to adopt the organic farming in agriculture to improve our health and as well our environments and climate changes problems to be maintained.

Introduction

Agriculture has changed dramatically over the year. With the advent of technology, it attains its popularity, labor cost it reduced, and the production is increased. Though there are many positive effects, it has many problems like topsoil depletion, ground water contaminations etc. Hence sustainable practices in agriculture are necessary. The sustainable agriculture movement begins during the 1950s and 60s. At the movement, the Green Revolution was exporting high-technology agriculture around the world and truly increased the agriculture production on a global level, and then a counter movement was beginning – the sustainable agriculture movement. It has maximizations the productions to another level of productivity and cultivation of differ variety with high yielding foods like hybrids and genetically modified without some basic on natural resources degradation, emergence of soil nutrient and loss of bio diversity with development of new bio pests and pathogens and chemical foods. This leads to danger for the health of people and animals. Sustainability agriculture is the most and important in every human being in the world, food is the essential required in our daily life and also to making that sustain is also the important for all beings in the world. To protect our environment form pollution free is our right as an human beings we give our fresh environment for our future generation without any harm. The necessitates to have alternative agriculture to develop a friendly eco system while sustaining and increasing the crop production and organic farming in agriculture is also increasing thru out the world day by day. We can see the changes were occurred in past 10 years many countries and focusing on the food.

Definition, Concepts and Ecological Benefits

Organic agriculture is a production system that sustain the ecosystem and the health of soil organic production system is based on the specific standard precisely formulated for food production and aim to archive the agro-ecosystem which is helps for country economically and socially sustainable, it totally based on expansion of sustainable agriculture in large way to maximizing use of external inputs through efficient use on farm resource compared to industrial agriculture. Thus, the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides is avoided. Organic in organic agriculture is a labelling term that denotes products that have been produced in accordance with certain standards during food production, handling, processing and marketing stages and certified by a duly constituted certification body or authority. The organic label is therefore a process claim rather than a product claim (Saini and Pandey, 2009). According to Codex Alimentarius (FAO/WHO), “organic agriculture as a holistic food production management system, which promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity. It emphasizes the use of management practices in preference to the use of on-farm input, considering that regional conditions require locally adapted system. This is accomplished by using, agronomic, biological and or mechanical methods, as opposed to using synthetic materials, to fulfil any specific function within the system”.

The growing concern about environmental degradation, dwindling natural resources and urgency to meet the food needs of the increasing population are compelling farm scientist and policy makers to seriously examine alternative to chemical agriculture (Kaswan et al., 2012). Organic food production eliminates soil and water contamination. Since organic food production strictly avoids the use of all synthetic chemicals, it does not pose any risk of soil and underground water contamination like conventional farming which uses tons of artificial fertilizers and pesticides. In order to reach organic farming several practices should be implemented. Unnatural substances such as chemical synthetic pesticide and synthetic fertilizer livestock antibiotics, food additives and processing aids should be limited. The use of genetically modified organisms should be prohibited. Taking advantage of on-site resources, such as livestock manure for fertilizer or feed produced on the farm. Choosing plant and animals species that are resistant to disease and local conditions adoption. Raising the livestock in free-range open-air system and providing them organic feed (Najadkoorki, 2012). Organic food production helps preserve local wildlife. By avoiding toxic and the chemical use of mixed planting as a natural pest control and maintaining field margins and hedges.

Low Investment

Organic farming normally does not involve capital investment as high as that required in chemical farming. Further, since organic fertilizers and pesticides can be produced locally, the yearly costs incurred by the farmer are also low. It should also be noted that while moving from chemical farming to organic farming, the transition might be high (Mahapatra et al., 2009). Using some tips to low investment, like using seeds instead of buying seeds, it reduces the cost and recycling them to reuse. It helps for the small farmers most of the small farmers like to invest low and getting more benefits in some places in India, as well to reduce the cost farmers need to aware of some good ideas, like connecting directly with the industries and giving their agriculture yield to them directly. It reduces the cost of farmers and get the better organic productions form small farmers as well.

Health Benefits

Organic farming has several health benefits. Regarding food safety and quality issues in food and farm, studies reveal that organic foods compared to the non-organic had the least amount of chemical residues (Baker et al., 2002). Moreover, the concentration of nitrate is lower in organic products (Lairon, 2010). It is also important to note that, through elimination of synthetic inputs in farms, organic farming reduces the risk of farmers being exposed to chemical pesticides. People have interested to buy an organic food diet in their regular diet. We can expand the life span of the people over the world by surplus the healthy food and without causing any food related problems.

Utilization

Using the natural resource in the best manner like rain water and suitable crops in suitable climate and storing waste kitchen and preparing the vermicompost in naturally. It will be stored for the agriculture needs for the using some natural resources instead of pests chemicals and fertilizers to minimize the chemical products in the agriculture. Organic farming mostly utilizes local available farm resources and by products of farm and home. Composting of all organic wastes in general and farmyard manure (FYM) or feedlot manure is important in organic farming. And storing the water by rainwater harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater for reuse on-site, rather than allowing it to run off. These stored waters are used for various purposes such as gardening, irrigation etc. as the mostly people in India use this natural method for the farming use also. When rainy season turns into drought, you are able to use that natural rainwater for crop irrigation.

Maintenance of Soil Fertility

Organic soil management practices contribute many benefits to soil health and provide ecosystem services such as the at least some small possibilities to nutrient losses to the environment and the reduction of plant responsiveness to disease. According to the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement, the primary objective of organic farming is the sustainable crop production for maintaining long-term soil fertility in harmony with natural systems. Therefore, to sustain the agricultural productivity and environmental quality soil health management we should be the primary concern of all stakeholders of agricultural development (Reeves, 1997). Organic farming system is based on the management of soil organic matter, which in turn maintains the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil (Ramesh et al., 2005). It is now a well-established fact that organically managed soil exhibits greater soil organic carbon and total nitrogen, lower nitrate leaching (Drinkwater et al., 1998) and biological soil quality than conventionally managed soil (Biswas et al., 2014). The role of soil organisms, found abundantly in organic systems, is central to soil processes and fertility since they render available the elements in plant residues and organic debris entering the soil (Alfoldi et al., 2002). As well to maintain the soil fertility conserving the soil, crop rotation, less use of fertilizers, this things make the organic reasons for the agriculture by the rotation of crop the soil will become more strong by the own changes will be taking its own to support the crop, as well applying pests and fertilizers in only some seasons if they required to the crop or not it helps to maintain the good soil in the environment.

Conclusion

Organic agriculture is accelerating momentum as an alternative method to the modern system. And new technology is ware reaching India annually with some machine tools and some farming technique as well. Even whatever but, there are several disasters impeding Indian farmers, from adopting of farmers’ apprehension lies in non-availability of enough organic supplements, bio-fertilizers and local market for organic produce. Mostly for small farmers in India they are uneducated farmers were mostly in India they don’t have sufficient needs and they not have the exact things to overcome form the problems while farming and getting loss. Additionally, lack of access to guidelines, certification and input cost coupled with capital-driven regulation by contracting firms strongly discourage small farm holders who constitute over 70% of farming community in India. There is a need for a comprehensive framework that integrates of with bottom-up responses, and the small farmers also play the significant role in the agriculture industries in India technology diffusion with reciprocal knowledge flow from farmers’ institution and their local resources and innovation and appropriate policies should be established at various level, in order to facilitate development in the region.

References

1. Alfoldi, T., Fliebach, A., Geier, U., Kilcher, L., Niggli, U., L., Stolze, M. and H. Willer (2002). Organic Agriculture and the Environment. In: Organic Agriculture, Environment and Food Security. (Scialabba, N. E.-H., and C. Hattam eds.). The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome.
2. Baker, B. P., Benbrook, C. M., Benbrook, K. L. (2002). Pesticide Residues in Conventional, Integrated Pest Management (IPM)-Grown and Organic Foods: Insights from Three US Data Sets. Food Additives and Contaminants 19(5): 427-446.
3. Biswas, S., Ali, M.N., Goswami, R. and Chakraborty, S. (2014). Soil Health Sustainability and Organic Farming: A Review. Journal of Food, Agriculture & Environment, 12(3&4): 237-24.

After over 600 years of colonial rule, India got its freedom from the British domain on August 15, 1947. An enormous section of the populace, around three-fourths, was subject to agriculture for work and for the nourishment and fiber, devoured by cultivating families and proprietors. Agriculture in India was based chiefly on feudal land system where a greater part of the populace lived in rural areas, battled with low efficiency, and had just crude innovation. The new popularity-based government had a colossal errand when endeavoring to incorporate the nation and give adequate work just as nourishment and fiber to the ravenous populace. The legislature of India structured five-year intends to handle enormous issues identified with all segments of the economy.

The history of agriculture in India dates back to Indus Valley Civilization and even before that in certain parts of South India. India ranks second worldwide in farming sector yields. According to 2018, agribusiness utilized half of the Indian work power and contributed 17–18% to nation’s GDP. In 2016, agriculture and partnered divisions like animal husbandry, forestry and fisheries accounted for 15.4% of the GDP with about 31% of the workforce in 2014. India positions first on the planet with most noteworthy net cropped territory followed by US and China. The financial commitment of agriculture to India’s GDP is consistently declining with the nation’s wide based monetary development. In any case, farming is demographically the broadest monetary area and assumes a huge job in the social and economic fabric of India. India traded $38 billion worth of agrarian items in 2013, making it the seventh biggest agricultural exporter worldwide and the 6th biggest net exporter. The greater part of its farming fares serves developing and least developed countries. Indian agriculture/horticulture and processed foods are sent out to in excess of 120 nations, principally to the Japan, Southeast Asia, SAARC countries, European Union and the United States.

Regardless of the staggering business sector size, agrarian segment keeps on slacking in different segments. One of the significant parts is that the yields per hectare of harvests in India are commonly low contrasted with worldwide benchmarks. Most of the agricultural land in India is monsoon dependent. In the event that there is a decent monsoon, the whole farming division is upbeat. Be that as it may, if the monsoon comes up short, entire agricultural sector is influenced by a decline in the productivity and profits. Specialists in the field of agribusiness have called attention to that ill-advised administration of water is the essential purpose behind this fall in efficiency. Irrigation which consumes more than 80 percent of the absolute water use in the nation isn’t appropriately updated. Over utilization of water and unplanned water management methods has ruined the irrigation system in numerous parts of the nation, if precise water management procedures are followed, the nation can improve agrarian yield significantly.

One of the essential explanations behind fall in agricultural productivity is the absence of actualizing advanced farming innovations. Additionally, poor farming networks in the nation, do not have the comprehension of present-day agriculture techniques to improve profitability. For instance, excessive use of fertilizer just does not make the plants reliant on fertilizers but additionally disintegrates the regular nature of the land, making ground water table toxic in many cases, it also contaminates the close by water bodies, when there is substantial downpour or flooding. Planting crops that need more water, like rice, on the basis of irrigation facilities is spreading in areas where there is not enough water. The issue is that the water insufficient zone devours more water than required. In addition, excessive evaporation causes common salt to accumulate and accumulate in fields, causing the land to rapidly lose its fertility.

Alongside these issues, most of the farmers, need legitimate marketing channels and mediums to sell their produce. Such issues make them exploited people in the hands of middlemen who diminish their incomes. An insufficient storage facilities and inappropriate marketing channels, drives wastage and results in poor agrarian exports because of issues in keeping up quality in many cases. It ought to be noticed that farm produce wastage is running into a large number of crores of rupees consistently. In 2012, the National Crime Records Bureau of India revealed 13,754 farmers suicides. Farmer suicides represent 11.2% of all suicides in India. Activists and researchers have offered various clashing purposes behind farmer suicides, for example, monsoon disappointment, high debt burdens, genetically modified crops, weak government policies, public mental health, personal issues and family issues.

The necessary degree of venture for the advancement of advertising, stockpiling and cold stockpiling infrastructure is evaluated to be colossal. The administration has not had the option to actualize schemes to bring investment up in promoting framework effectively. Among these schemes are ‘Construction of Rural Godowns’, ‘Market Research and Information Network’, and ‘Development/Strengthening of Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure, Grading and Standardization’.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), established in 1929, was answerable for the pursuit prompting the ‘Indian Green Revolution’ of the 1970s. The ICAR is the apex body in agriculture and related allied fields, including research and education. The Union Minister of Agriculture is the president of the ICAR. The Green Revolution in India refers to a period when Indian agriculture was changed over into an industrial system because of the adoption of modern-day techniques and innovation, for example, the utilization of high yielding variety (HYV) seeds, tractors, irrigation facilities, pesticides, and fertilizers. It was for the most part found by M.S. Swami Nathan. This was a piece of the larger Green Revolution endeavor started by Norman Borlaug, which utilized agrarian research and innovation to increment agricultural profitability in the developing world. The Green Revolution within India commenced in 1958 that prompted an expansion in food grain generation, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Significant achievements in this endeavor were the advancement of high-yielding variety of wheat, and rust resistant strains of wheat. The White Revolution and the Blue Revolution likewise assumed a significant job in expanding the farming yield of India while supporting and accompanying development accomplished by the Green Revolution.

Mechanization can possibly change numerous agricultural yield difficulties as it will prompt higher productivity and financial commitment. However, it has been out of reach to farmers for long to a great extent because of financial reasons. With little land possession and steady fragmentation, small and marginalized farmers discover it practically difficult to claim a tractor. To make agribusiness monetarily suitable ICAR began numerous activities. ICAR is moving in the direction of developing need-based and region-specific engineering technologies and is locked in, in planning, co-ordination and observing of R&D programs in a national and worldwide level. It has created many improved apparatuses such as laser and leveler, self-propelled sprayers, precision seeders and planters, harvesters for cereals and sugarcane etc. It has introduced gender cordial tools for decrease in the drudgery for women farm workers. The ‘Lab to Land’ program as of late set up of modern mechanized farm units.

Around 600 million individuals are reliant on agriculture, with about 98% of Indian farmers being on low pay or asset poor and for the most part occupied with subsistence cultivating, under such conditions farm subsidies in form of financial support to farmers are an indispensable piece of the government budget. Subsidies assume an essential job in a welfare state, yet a totally free supply of consumer goods and inputs prompts extensive wastage, and abuse as pilferage in the supply channels, as food and different subsidies in India experience the ill effects of an inefficient distributive system, and not over 42% of subsidized food arrives at the focused-on recipients. Farm subsidies in India can be sorted under 2 heads: direct farm subsidy and indirect farm subsidy.

Direct farm subsidy is directly provided to the farmers, generally paid as immediate money appropriation. In this way, direct-subsidies assume indispensable job in expanding the purchasing capacity of farmers and raising the standard of living of country rural area. Direct farm subsidy is extremely normal in a large portion of the developed nations like the US and Europe, yet India gives direct subsidies in an exceptionally constrained structure like food subsidy, MSP-based procurement and so forth.

Indirect farm subsidies are not in type of money however given as irrigation subsidy, power subsidy, fertilizer subsidy, seed subsidy, credit subsidy, farm advance waivers, investments in agrarian research, environmental help and farmer training, and so forth. India burns through roughly 2% of the GDP in indirect subsidies. Power is required to draw the groundwater subsequently the government gives a subsidy which is equivalent to the contrast between the value paid by the farmer for the use of power and the genuine expense of creating the power.

For sustained agricultural development and to promote balanced nutrients application, it is imperative that fertilizer is made accessible to farmers at moderate costs (subsidy is given to the business) and with this objective, urea being the main controlled fertilizer, is sold at statutory advised uniform sale cost, and decontrolled phosphate and potassic fertilizes are sold at indicative maximum retail prices (MRPs). In FY 2018-19, subsidy on fertilizers has been increased to about Rs 70,000 crore (about Rs 45,000 crore for urea) from Rs 65,000 crore in 2017-18.

Accessibility of credit is a significant issue for poor farmers as they are destitute and can’t move toward the credit advertise on the grounds that they do not have the security required for loans and in this manner to carry out production exercises they approach the nearby cash moneylenders, which prompts their abuse. Credit subsidy is the distinction between interest charged from the farmers and genuine expense of giving credit, some model incorporate government giving interest subsidies on momentary harvest loans, cost on discounting terrible loans and so on. The government has expanded the focus of agriculture credit for FY 2019 to Rs 11 lakh crore, but 30-40% of provincial credit is leaking out of the system as farmers get loans at 3-4% interest and then make fixed deposits in full. Transportation facilities, storage facilities, power, information about the market, and so forth are significant for production and sale operations, singular endeavors to build such essential foundation are not suitable because of long incubation time of framework ventures, subsequently cost of such public good is dealt with by the government.

The current government has taken significant initiatives and detailed different approaches to enable the farmers to build up their agricultural productivity keeping the sustainable development cause in the mind. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, National Agriculture Market, Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana, Pradhan Manthri Fasal Bima Yojana are some significant schemes by the Government of India. With specific schemes the government is additionally making farmers mindful of the advantages of miniaturized scale irrigation such as the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (2006), National Mission on Micro-Water System (2010), National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (2014) and the ongoing Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayi Yojana. The most recent scheme PMKSY Per Drop More Crop is a significant micro-irrigation scheme that focuses on the district level implementation of the plan making locale officers straightforwardly responsible. This plan has been continually advanced on all types of media and is additionally being educated at different Kisan Melas. It turns into even more significant to use micro-irrigation and save water in all circles of life when 54% of India faces high water stress. The administration has thought of a Rs. 6,000-crore World Bank-aided Atal Bhujal Yojana with community participation to guarantee sustained groundwater management in overexploited and ground water-stressed territories in several States. This shows the means of the current government to keep sustainability in their brain while defining plans and strategies.

India has defined objective of accomplishing a yearning objective of multiplying farmers salary by 2022. It also plans to increase the typical salary of a farmer’s family from current costs to 219,724 rupees ($3,420) by 2022-23 from Rs. 96,703 ($1,505) in 2015-16.

With expanded investments in farming infrastructure, for example, irrigation facilities, warehousing and cold storage the agriculture sector in India is required to produce better yield and development in the following years. Agribusiness specialists say that India is expected to be self-sufficient in agribusiness in the coming decades. This is fundamentally because of extraordinary hard work of researchers to get early-maturing varieties of pulses upheld by the expansion in minimum support price.

“In 2011, 160 million hectares if genetically modified crops were grown and it was an 8% increase than the previous year”. Genetically modified foods (GMFs) are foods manufactured from plants or animals whose genetic material has been changed through genetic change. Therefore, making genetically modified foods the answer to the nation’s famine difficulties because they give better health benefits, energy, soil, and water resources and it takes less land to grow them.

Genetically modified foods can be customized to give better health benefits and a complete nutritional profile. Numerous vitamins and minerals can be engineered into the crops as they grow, by changing the genetic material of the plant. Furthermore, these foods with an increased number of vitamins and minerals have a huge possibility to improve the public’s health and are a valuable resource to tackle malnutrition. This process makes it possible for people to get all the nutrients with fewer foods. One of the developments in modifying foods is increasing the amount of fatty acid in crops so that the crops produce higher levels of polyunsaturated fats, which play a major part in protecting people against heart diseases. In addition, it makes it possible for people to get food at lower costs. This enables people living in poverty to be provided with enough food resources they require to maintain their health.

Generally, modified crops can save energy, soil, and water resources. They can help keep agricultural soil healthy and productive. They aid farmers to acquire effective tillage applications. Decreased tillage helps conserve organic matter in the soil, which has many environmental advantages. Conservation tillage increases moisture, water retention and can decrease the need for extra irrigation. The organic matter and moisture that remains in the soil help crops resist times of drought. In addition, reduced tillage can also aid in decreasing the use of fertilizers and therefore nitrous oxide. Also, drought-resistant characteristics aid against times of drought, reducing the need for rigorous irrigation. Furthermore, due to the crops being drought-resistant, they are able to be grown in countries that suffer from drought and countries that do not have fertile soil. That makes it easier to budget food resources for a larger population base thus resulting in enough food for everyone.

It takes less land to grow more food. Genetically modified crops allow farmers to grow more food without using extra land. Higher production of crops can be generated from the same cropland. In some occasions, the crop production will likely double when local farmers start using genetically modified crops. This makes it possible for current and future generations to meet the food demands they are going to face or are currently facing. When farmers can grow more food more productively, the rest of the world can pay less to eat more and there will be more food for them.

Genetically modified foods are the solution to the world’s hunger issues. Genetically modified farming gives new ways for farmers to grow the food the world needs, at the rate they need it. Furthermore, it also helps grow food without transforming more forests and wetlands into larger farms, to keep food prices from increasing, and to supply the whole world with food. More farms that can keep up with the population growth are required.

In a research article by R.A. Gerhardt, which was later published online in April 2012, states that in the past decade there has been increasing scientific interest in organic farming, particularly as compared with industrial or conventional agriculture. Although several comparative studies involving these two agricultural systems are undertaken, few assess the impact of those two essentially different systems on soil structure, and none on soil microstructure.

During this study, two adjacent, paired farms in eastern Iowa, one managed in line with organic, and also the alternative in line with industrial farming. They studied conventional farming strategies to work out the results of those two agricultural systems on soil structure and microstructure. At each farm’s color, texture, ped sort and degree of development, depth of the horizon and body were represented within the field, organic matter content made a lot of growth, and it represented microstructural and organic characteristics victimization of micro-morphology. The organic farm had a considerably improved soil structure: with AN multiplied in horizon depth, organic matter content, porosity, crawler abundance and activity, and coarser, higher developed aggregates than the conventional farm. Moreover, the industrial farm conjointly suffered from compaction and erosion. This study shows that, over the semipermanent, organic management strategies can maintain and improve the structure of the soil, leading to a soil with a lot of contributing to promoting crop growth, then conventional strategies that degrade the soil. Moreover, another study, conducted by Nate Van Beilen, reiterates the same findings, summarizing that this paper investigates the contrasting impacts that regular and natural horticulture have on soil biological systems.

Through a broad writing audit, this paper contends that conventional horticulture has huge negative impacts on soil nature, and natural farming is at any rate as serious with traditional agribusiness when externalized costs are thought of. In view of the wide assortment of soil types, horticultural methodologies, composts, pesticides, and examination strategies used in agrarian investigations, there is a variety of exploration regarding this matter. It is utilized to extricate and circulate air through the dirt, slaughter weeds, dry out soil after wet winter seasons, and blend natural issues into the dirt. Subsequently, after considering writing surveys of the effects of pesticides, there is an absence of exhaustive information showing the general effects of pesticides and their drawn-out consequences for soil wellbeing. In natural horticulture, phosphorus is added to soil as compost while in ordinary agribusiness, it includes phosphorus through manures obtained from mined phosphorus. Expanding the utilization of fertilizer, and leaving more natural issues on soils as opposed to plowing soil and leaving it presented to wind and rain, profiting the very science of the dirt after some time.

In terms of longevity, most researchers and farmers would agree that organic farming agricultural practices are beneficial in the long run. According to Timothy A. and his colleagues, “In an investigation of 18 years of harvest yield and homestead, executives derived from a previous study at the University of Minnesota showed that the natural yield revolution was reliably more gainful and conveyed less danger of low returns than regular corn and soybean creation when natural prime expenses were cut considerably. The cost of buying substance herbicides in the 2-yr customary pivot surpassed the expense of controlling weeds precisely in the natural framework, prompting higher creation costs in the ordinary revolution, despite the fact that natural creation included more field activities, Delbridge includes” (paragraph 5-7).

To conclude, organic farming is a much better type of farming practice than conventional farming, and it can be proven through many research papers and articles that contain thorough tests and experiments by experts in the field. An excellent summary example of this is that conventional produce contains a mixture of harmful chemicals that can negatively affect people, especially children, and also the devastating effects of production on large sections of land barren and polluted. Overall, the important aspect of this essay is that conventional farming produces more and its produce are way cheaper compared to the commodity and production process in organic farming However, organic farming is overall better in terms of health and safety benefits and the survival of the future environment. Therefore, organic farming and practices should be reinforced and inducted back into societies as not only is it beneficial to the human health and environment, but also the future generation.

The novel Animal Farm, by the political writer George Orwell, is a story parallel to the events of the Russian Revolution. It features the brutal rise to power of one history’s most notorious dictators – Josef Stalin, who is portrayed by the tyrannical pig Napoleon. After the animals of Manor Farm expel their human master, Napoleon eventually manages to seize total control over every aspect of the animals’ lives.

After the revolution, the Manor Farm was renamed the Animal Farm and the seven commandments of the animal were established to ensure equality. Pigs have become supervisors of the farm. However, the rivalry between the two Snowball pigs and Napoleon made Napoleon use force. Napoleon ordered his dogs to chase the snowball from the farm until he became the only leader. After the snowballs are expelled, the animals work harder and the pigs do less. This is evidenced by evidence from the text where he says: ‘Huge rocks, far too large to be used as they were…

Animals whipped ropes around these then all together, cows, horses, sheep, any animal that can hold the rope – even pigs sometimes join the … ‘Sometimes it’s the key word because it means the pigs just came and helped so they can get glory and reward themselves. Other animals have things taken from them by pigs, things like their food, so pigs can enjoy privileges. One example is: “The apples and milk are an ideal illustration of Napoleon and the pigs using the other animals. By Napoleon desiring the milk and apples he determined that it was for him and the pigs without even telling the other critters they were swallowing them.

But whenever the animals started to notice the milk and apples were gone each day that they requested the pigs and Squealer simply explained:”You do not imagine, I hope, that we pigs are doing this in a spirit of selfishness and privilege? Our sole object in taking these things is to preserve our health” and is also, outsmarting the other creatures for the benefit of these pigs.It was mixed every day in the blending of pigs. Napoleon’s selfishness and corrupt power made him commit various atrocities against his comrades.

As a result, the lives of animals except pigs and dogs were tyranny and inequality. Napoleon was worse than their former master, the animals spent almost the rest of his life starving and working on the windmill that had been destroyed several times, the cancellation of Sunday morning meetings, the public culling of animals, and drinking alcohol were the most important changes that facilitated the transformation of the animal farm, and Napoleon as the most important responsible for the fall of the virtuous vision LAMZ animal. Easy to cancel meetings Sunday morning turning farm animals because the animals have lost their right to vote. It was a tradition that was established after the revolution is on Sunday, where he met all the animals together in the General Assembly of the morning meeting In order to plan to work the following week and discuss decisions.

Here Orwell cynically explained the transformation of European societies after the Russian revolution that ended Stalin’s oppressive rule, and that the real victim in the revolutions is the people who expect a happy ending and turn it into a painful reality.

The Philippines is now one of the fast rising and developing country in the Asian region, that is in terms of economic development. Far and wide industrial development is booming so much so that even in the farthest area of our land, from the north to south, high rise buildings and structures are continuously being erected and constructed. Not only by the local entrepreneurs and or industrialists but more so by foreign investors; and this industrialization and progress of our country has largely affected the land mass of the Philippines. This is so because most of our agricultural lands have been converted and used in said development; as such, agricultural lands devoted to rice farming and production have continuously decreased in area.

Filipino rice farmers have been greatly affected, and the present Rice Importation Law has brought more sufferance than benefit to them.

The Philippines is experiencing an unusual problem. One of them is Tarrification Law. Recently, President Duterte signed a law that will resolve the rice economy and it’s local farmers that is expected to be affected in their bussiness which gives the citizens unfair price, impact of Rice Tarrification Law on Filipino Farmers and Rice shortage by using rice importation as a solution. But there’s a problem, signing the law has made things difficult or even worse for the local farmers. Many months has passed by, farmers are slowly suffering since rice importation has started. All of the efforts has done by the farmers are put to waste because what happens is they end up supporting other countries from farmers while others go hungry and slowly losing the livelihood of the farmers. They also conclude that the law will make the Filipino farmers competitive and profitable which is not because rice from abroad is cheaper and we all know that Filipinos wants cheaper and affordable while others doesn’t know that other farmers waits in line to sign documents as part of cash loan requirements to help other farmers but to solve the crisis of the farmers. Duterte says government should buy palay from local farmers at reasonable price. So that the farmers has no longer to suffer and gives justice about their rights and hardworks as a farmer

Rice is such an important part of the Philippines history and culture. The Philippines is a island nation, a country that is made up of one or more islands. But having a rice crisis and rice shortage in the Philippine has been a problem recently. That’s the reason why we import rice here in the Philippines to resolve that crisis. Philippines continues to suffer every few years. All they need to is to improve those laws. They have not really lost anything except that there’s a abberation in the market. There’s a news about the rice shortage or rice crisis in the south, where prices have skyrocketed as high as P70 per kilo is a disaster waiting to happen. It’s cues like this that the government wants shorter these lining up for state subsidized imported rice that is sold there at half the market cost but authorities insist there is no shortage of supply. The Philippines once a rice exporting nation is now the world’s largest importer but recently many exporters are keeping their supply for domestic markets to slow down their own inflation. So the Philippine demand is only helping push prices in the world marker even higher, officials are now asking the world bank to step in and stabilize the situation. In an attempt to control distribution, Philippine authorities will be issuing rice access to the poorest families. Many analysts say the problem has been handled by years of the government neglect of the local rice industry choosing to spend money on cheap imports instead of developing local agriculture.

Lastly, youths of today must be trained to be self sufficient and should not be fully dependent on rice for food; they should work and must be resourceful to look for substitute. They should learn to plant some vegetables and other grains like wheat with equivalent nutrient values. In this case it will be beneficial to every member of the family. Backyard farming could be solutions too for those who live in the city; or plants in every little space available which can produce food substitute for rice with sufficient nutrition or vitamins for everyone.

At same time, educate consumers on the advantages of consuming less amount of rice according to the needs or physical condition or one’s health (eat more fruits and vegetables than rice).

But more importantly, rice farmers should also try to divert their efforts in other agricultural products so they will not be greatly affected by the rice importation tariffication law. For after all it was the aim of the government to give Filipinos staple food supply at a very affordable price. Their land must made to try some other products aside from rice to make it more competitive and productive.

Abstract

As the Indian population is increasing, the demand for fresh fruits and vegetables is also increasing. Owing to the perishable nature and very short shelf life, these items require proper storage and transportation facilities in order to reach to the customer in fresh state. A lack of investment in agriculture makes the country vulnerable to international price shocks as well as exchange-rate volatility. The present study undertakes a thorough review of basic and contemporary literature available and tries to explain the challenges & opportunities in supply chain management to create a bridge between rural & urban market. It also brings out relevant research gaps and overlooked problems in the supply chain. The proposed research work is exploratory in nature using secondary sources.

Introduction

The Indian economic growth in the recent years has been propelled by the growth of the service and manufacturing sectors, while agriculture sector is still playing a significant role by contributing 17% of the GDP and providing employment to 60% of the population. With the increasing focus and investments from the large national and international players in the food retailing, the agriculture sector is bound to modernize much faster in the coming years. As this sector has a strong social implication, it has also been accorded a high priority status by the Government, which is facilitating its growth by charting favourable initiatives at different policy levels. The changing consumption dynamics coupled with the growth of modern retail sector, like the growing demand for the processed food offers a tremendous opportunity for all stakeholders in the areas of production, processing, marketing, supply chain, infrastructure development, technology up gradation and education. Since organized retail sector has started showing interest in fresh fruit and vegetable marketing and already some of them have entered into food retailing with huge investments, but the

supply chain management i.e., from the farm to fork is still in a very pathetic state. There is a need to manage the whole show in transparent and participatory ways with proper coordination with the stakeholders so that whole agriculture sector in India can derive the benefit effectively. The present study is undertaken after a thorough review of basic and contemporary literature available and tries to identify the challenges & opportunities in supply chain management in creating a bridge between rural producers & urban consumers. It also brings out relevant research gaps and overlooked problems in the supply chain management in India.

Indian food supply chain is full of challenges and throws open several questions which has drawn attention of contemporary researchers. According to Food Corporation of India (FCI) sources, an average of 20%-30% (Bhardwaj and Palaparthy, 2008) of harvested produce is lost during transport from farm to factory. It throws opportunities in the research areas of transportation, storage and logistics, which may concentrate on minimizing these losses. Present trends of food sector demands innovative, competitive and sustainable supply chains in the food sector. India is bestowed with one of the best natural resources in the world and several factors like globalization, information technology, and rise of organized retails are gearing up the Indian food supply chains for a better future. If properly utilized, these natural resources can be converted to an advantage. However, the path is full of challenges and hurdles. There is a comprehensive requirement of research in the area not only to fully understand the challenges in supply chains management but to identify the opportunities for improvement and also to reduce several inefficiencies in the supply chains. There is a huge potential for the researchers to take the challenge and develop a body of knowledge, which will help the government, corporate and cooperatives in handling their responsibilities by running the supply chains effectively.

Proposed System

Natural resources for agro-based industry

India is a developing country and the economic growth of the country was dependent on agriculture for several decades. Unlike many nations, India has a large pool of natural resources, which can flourish into a large resource of food products for the evergrowing population. It is a known fact that, in India, although half of the total land is cultivable, but productivity per hectare is very low. The Gangatic plain is one of the most fertile plains in the world. India has more than 40 varieties of soil and a regular system of rainfall—the monsoon phenomenon. The irrigation projects, which have come up over a period of several decades, now ensure regular supply of water for irrigation in states like Rajasthan. States like Punjab and Haryana are pioneers in achieving one of highest per hectare production records. According to the FICCI report of October 2004, India is

• Second largest fruit and vegetable producer in the world (approximately 135 million tonnes);
• Second largest producer of milk;
• Fifth largest producer of eggs; and
• Sixth largest producer of fish with harvesting volumes of 5.2 million tonnes.
• The above statistics are encouraging and promise a greater future.

Population and demographic changes

Indian middle and upper middle class population is growing very rapidly and there is also increase in number of young working couples, resulted in increase in demand for semi-processed food, fast foods, packed foods, ready-to-eat foods. Changing taste and preference towards consumption of basic foods items, which is driven by longer working hours, increase in double income families, more exposure to advertising, for comfort and convenience etc. Especially people living in cities are become more health and hygiene conscious. In place of conventional wet markets, they prefer to buy vegetables, fruits and other agri-products from the super markets and modern retail stores, and this leads to the entry of more and more corporate into the agri-food marketing.

Integration of primary sector, secondary sector and tertiary sector

Agri-sectors (primary sector) of many developing countries are undergoing drastic change in their production process and selection of crops and how they are integrating different crops for better production and profit. However, it is a relatively recent phenomenon (Hobbs and Young, 2000). One of the reasons that can be cited for the phenomenon is the transaction cost economics. According to the theory, economic transactions form a considerable part of transactions in an open market wherein buyer and seller incur costs in conducting a transaction. These costs arise specially when there are a large number of small players resulting in information asymmetry, bounded rationality and opportunism (Williamson, 1989; and Eggertsson, 1990). However, these costs tend to be low when carried out in an environment of a strategic alliance through contracting, or within a vertically integrated firm (Coase, 1937; and Williamson, 1979). For many agricultural commodities in the US, the trend has been away from spot market transactions and towards closer vertical coordination along the supply chain (Hobbs and Young, 2000). In India, setup of retail chains like Reliance Fresh or Food World has low overall transaction costs for a given volume of transactions.

Emergence of organized retail

The emergence of organized retail, which presents superstore as the primary outlet, goes together with new retail strategies demanding emphasis on the establishing retail brand as a source of competitive advantage. The scale and complexity of the retail store operation, along with these retail branding strategies, requires highly refined operating and control procedures and centralized management structures . From a supply chain perspective, the more important aspects of emergence of organized retail have resulted in a close focus on identification and exploitation of hidden supply chain costs and efficiencies. In India Reliance Fresh and Spencer’s are the pioneers in the organized retail sector. Emergence of organized retail is leading to direct benefits to the farmers, by giving better price by lowing the cost and providing better quality products to the end consumers. Local companies like Dabur, MTR, ITC, Godrej, and Amul are aggressively developing semi-process and ready-toeat foods. Multiple restaurant chains such as McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, Dominos, Coffee day, Qwiky’s and Saravana Bhavan, and Sagar Chains are growing rapidly in fast food sector. .

Emergence of technologies

One of the major benefits of Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) technology is that, in concurrence with delivery information and frequent stock counts, the sales data collected presents a very clear picture of market demand patterns. Along with EPOS, salesbased ordering systems are becoming popular which enable orders to be generated automatically in response to customer demand. This provides retailers an opportunity to develop a seamless

information flow, from the checkout to retail stock control and replenishment functions (Stone, 1995; and Collins et al., 1989). EPOS and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) are the technologies popular with Indian food retailers like Spencer’s and Reliance Fresh. From the economics point of view, the costs associated with these technologies can be justified only in case of large organized and integrated players. In the US, the availability of EPOS data enhanced the attractiveness of centralized distribution (McKinnon et al., 1990), which was rapidly embraced by the major grocery retailers during the late 1980s and early 1990s through the establishment of composite distribution centres. Efficient centralized distribution is dependent on flexible and advanced information systems (Collins et al., 1989). In India, several companies like Reliance Fresh, Spencer’s, and McDonald’s are utilizing IT for their benefit. Sachin and Kuttayan (2003) conducted a descriptive case study on ITC’s (Indian Tobacco Corporation) e-choupal initiative. This study delineates the effect of emerging technologies on Indian food supply chain and describes the benefits of information technology to the supply chain partners (ITC and farmers). It has been found that farmers get the benefits like faster processing time, prompt payment and access to a wide range of information, including accurate market price knowledge, and market trends, it also help them to make efficient selling decisions. The farmers selling directly to ITC through an e-choupal receive a higher price for their crops than they would receive through the mandi (traditional) system, on an average they get about 2.5% higher. The overall benefits to farmers include lower prices for inputs and other goods, higher yields, and a sense of empowerment. E-choupal saves farmers from the dreaded agents, time wasting mandi system and transportation costs. At the same time, ITC also gets the benefits like lowering of procurement costs (it saves the commission fee and part of the transport costs it would otherwise pay to traders who serve as its buying agents at the mandi). ITC recovers its equipment costs from an e-choupal in the first year of operation and the venture as a whole becomes profitable. The system also provides direct access to information about conditions on the ground and weather which helps farmers in planning for the next crop.

Globalization

Many transnational companies have grown so large that their size exceeds that of some nation states. Thus they could override, neutralize, or even counteract the political will of a nation state’. Economic globalization is due to capital movements and specifically Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Julius (1990) described the flow of FDI in the 1980s between the three areas Japan, the EU and North America. This was `marketdriven’ trade in services as well as goods. Cable (1999) identifies that the flow to non-OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries has increased as a share of the total to:

• Asian countries including China, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia;
• Latin America including Mexico, Chile, Argentina and Brazil; and
• •Eastern Europe.

The major beneficiaries of food supply globalization are considered to be consumers who now have greater choice and lower food prices. The `chain captains’—those who control the supply chain—have also seen significant financial benefits. Organizations, seeking to improve performance, shareholder dividends and share price, are constantly looking to new markets to lower operating costs. Operating in a global rather than a national market will not only give rise to increased opportunities, i.e., a potential reduction in operating costs whilst increasing the size of the market the organization can potentially trade with, but also increased threats, i.e., increased competition in the individual national markets. Gaining globally recognized quality standards such as ISO9000 may mean they can access markets, which are otherwise unavailable to them. Rapid demands of globalization have resulted in Indian companies to gear their efforts to expand their horizons. No wonder the exports have shown a rising trend. They have increased from Rs. 28,764 lakh in 2002-2003 to Rs. 43,002 lakh in 2006-2007.Multinational companies have entered the food value chain in India; Cargill and Conagra, Tropicana are few of the examples. These companies will generate competition among the Indian counterparts thereby improving the processes and supply chain practices.

Role of the government

Food and Agriculture are two important national activities and which affect the well being of its people of the country. In formulating the policies of farming, production, processing, distribution and retailing and also in financing these activities the Governments should play a leading role. This becomes all the more important in view of the globalization of the food industry. Allowing foreign operators for food production, distribution and retailing is a decision of national importance. The decisions need to be consistent all along the supply chain and mutually reinforcing and not contradictory.

There are several regulatory measures handled by multitude of departments divided between State and Central governments. While some of this is inevitable but streamlining them would be extremely productive. Further, research should be initiated to develop indigenous packaging materials, machines, laboratories for developing new food products and more importantly protocols for storage and processing food raw materials.

The Government of India is also aware of the importance of the sector and has taken several steps to boost the sector. In the light of high perishability of the products in the sector, the government allows import of cold storage equipment or establishing cold storages in India without any restrictions. Foreign companies are allowed to have a share of up to 51% in cold chain projects. There are several arrangements to provide subsidies in the sector, for example, National Horticulture Board (NHB) drives a subsidy scheme which provides 25% (maximum Rs. 50 lakh) subsidies to the promoter in overall capital investments. There are about 60 Agri-Export Zones (AEZ) in India promoted by Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) which are geared to increase the exports of several agri-products. These zones not only channel proper exports but also tend to reduce inefficiency in the value chains of the agriproducts. According to the web sources of APEDA, the following activities are carried to improve the level of various food sector-related processes:

 Development of database on products, markets and services;  Publicity and information dissemination;  Organization of product promotions abroad and visits of official and trade delegations abroad;  Participation in international trade fairs in India and abroad;  Organization of buyer-seller meets and other business interactions;  Information dissemination through APEDA’s newsletter, feedback series and library;  Distribution of annual APEDA awards;  Provides recommendatory, advisory and other support services to the trade and industry; and  Problem solving in government agencies and organizations, RBI, customs, import/export procedures, problems with importers through Indian missions abroad.

Furthermore, to handle the expected higher agricultural production during the Tenth Plan Period, the Inter Ministerial Task force on Agricultural Marketing Reforms constituted by Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India has recommended the creation of additional cold chain facilities at an investment cost of Rs. 2500 crore of which Rs. 625 crore are to be provided as subsidy and the rest has to come as private investment. They have also suggested modernization of existing facilities with an investment cost of Rs. 2100 crore of which Rs. 525 crore are to be subsidy and the balance to come as private investment.

The state governments also have initiatives in the food processing and cold chain sectors.

For example the Gujarat government has accorded priority to agro processing and horticulture, in view of the high export potential for fruits like mango, banana and chikoo. The government supports the sector by providing assistance to farmers for agricultural inputs, developing systems like drip irrigation and encouraging development of infrastructure facilities like warehousing, cold chain, etc for better pre-harvest and post-harvest crop management. Gujarat also has good logistical infrastructure such as airport, seaport and extensive road & railway network. Other states such as Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Punjab have similar schemes in place.

Agri export zones (AEZs)

The concept of the Agri Export Zone attempts to take a comprehensive look at a particular produce/products located in a contiguous area for the purpose of developing and sourcing the raw materials, their processing and packaging, finally exporting them. Thus, the entire effort is centered on a cluster approach of identifying the potential products, the geographical region in which these are grown and adopting an end to end approach of integrating the entire process, right from the stage of production till it reaches the market. The government helps in sourcing for raw materials, the setting up of processing facilities, providing finance at low interest rates and even matching with international buyers. The export zones mooted by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) to increase international trade in agri-commodities are an attempt to take a holistic approach to encouraging trade in specific commodities located in contiguous areas. For instance, in Tamil Nadu, the AEZs would focus on grapes, mangoes and chikoo, in Kerala — vegetables, in Punjab and Haryana — Kino, wheat and rice, Karnataka — vegetables and flowers, Maharashtra — mangoes, grapes and flower, Gujarat — bananas, mango, castor and garlic, and in Uttaranchal — litchi and medicinal plants.

State governments have several schemes to boost the efficiency in the sector. For example, Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) & Department of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture, West Bengal has jointly submitted a project, ‘IT-based Horticultural Extension Education for Agri-business in North Bengal’ to the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Government of India. The project will be taken up on a pilot basis and will assist the pineapple growers in receiving timely and relevant information. The infrastructure would include VSAT, Interactive Voice Response Service and AgriInformation portal anchored in local language. CDAC would act as the executing agency and would maintain an interactive multimedia-based educational material for this proposed information dissemination-cum-learning services. Space Application Centre, Ahmedabad has agreed to provide free transponder for this scheme.

Private sector initiatives

There are several private sector initiatives in the food processing and service sector. A number of companies are actively working on integrating the agriculture supply chain. Here we mention a few of them. These show the feasibility of operating efficient cold chains in the India scenario. They could be treated as pilots and other projects can be built emulating them. Here we consider the following cases

• McDonalds-India, a fast food service operator growing its own ingredients such as lettuce, potatoes, etc;
• Amul which is a highly successful cooperative dairy in Gujarat.
• E-choupal which is an ITC success story of procurement of produce from small farmers is an example of supply chain management Indian style.

There are other examples such as Bombay dabbawallahs which is an excellent example of sixsigma forward and reverse logistics delivery. Also, ITC, Mahindra and Rallis together are creating a network of service providers who offer information on weather and prices, credit, transport and assured demand.

According to Financial Express dated February 27, 2008 Indian IT major Infosys Technologies has developed an information and communication technology-enabled application to help small farmers integrate their business with large retailers and improve efficiencies in agro supply chain. Infosys has developed the application in partnership with the US-based non-profit development organization ACDI/ VOCA that would help in cutting down farm-to-market losses by 30% to 40%, the company said here on Tuesday.

The application will minimize inventory requirements, reduce wastes and allow retailers and farmers to be better integrated. ―Maintaining ontime, programmed delivery of fresh produce from a large and scattered production base is a complex and critical operation. This solution gives the organized retail sector access to a reliable smallholder production base. It thereby decreases farm-to-market losses, currently estimated at 30% to 40% on certain products,‖ head of India business unit Binod H R said. The application tackles supply chain management from profiling of farmer clusters to crop planning, scheduling, tracking and forecasting and allows farmers to access technical information including database searches for data and images, access to region-specific weather updates and market information – daily sales volumes and average prices.

Scope of the Study

The proposed researched work is exploratory in nature using secondary sources. The data & information will be collected from various literature reviews, industry trends, newspapers, journals & websites.

Though India is the second highest fruit and vegetable producer in the world, cold storage facilities are available only for 10% of the produce. In spite of abundant agricultural produce, India ranks below 10 in the export of food products with processing levels in fruit and vegetable sectors at around 2% only.

The food supply chain is complex with perishable goods and numerous small stakeholders. In India, infrastructure connecting numerous small stakeholders like farmers, wholesalers, food manufacturers, retailers is very weak. Farmers bring whatever they produced to the market without any knowledge about the demand in the market. Inadequate usage/improper management of cold chains are leading to loss in quality of the vegetables and fruits which in turn is leading to loss of profits and business opportunity. Lot of investments need to made in cold chains in India. Week alignment of supply chain strategy with business strategy is also another major problem with the Indian vegetable and fruit sector. Rapid entry of corporates into vegetables and fruit sectors is helping farmers as many corporates are going for direct tie-ups with farmers eliminating the middle men. The current challenge is to adopt best practices in supply chain like collaborative forecasting, data integration, increased usage of IT, demand-based production, incorporating a pull system for fruit and vegetable production rather than a push system sharing risk and rewards by the supply chain partners, etc. In India, major partners still operate in silos which unnecessarily lead to information distortion and supply chain inefficiencies.

Another challenge is to keep abreast of globalization by constantly upgrading competencies which will ultimately lead to better supply chain practices in Indian food industry. When compared to China or Philippines, India lags far behind in terms of exporting food items. Similarly, many Asian countries like China have better storage capacities and well-coordinated supply chains in the food sector.

The main aim is to understand Supply Chain Management for perishable goods especially fruits and vegetables and explore the various challenges and opportunities evolving day by day. Though rapid entry of corporate into vegetables and fruit sectors is helping farmers as they are going for direct tie-ups with farmers eliminating the middle men still the challenge is to adopt best practices in supply chain like collaborative forecasting, data integration, increased usage of IT, demand-based production, incorporating a pull system for fruit and vegetable production rather than a push system sharing risk and rewards by the supply chain partners, etc. What should firms from established and mature economies are increasingly expanding into emerging markets. As Indian economy is still based on agrarian economy proper supply chain management of perishable goods like foods, vegetables, fish, milk will play a crucial role in developing the economy & help India to emerge as a global leader in Food Sector. Having a galore of opportunities & resources the hindrance/gap between rural & urban market of India should be collaborated through proper vendor management, warehousing & logistics management.

Although various models are emerging in supply chain management of fruits and vegetables, but still there are gaps in decision areas, strategic factors etc. There is a requirement for a model that will bridge the gaps between rural & urban market will be able to create win-win situation for both.

Objective of Study

1. To analyze the current scenario of Indian Supply Chain & Logistics Models of fruits and vegetables
2. To analyze the effectiveness of different Supply Chain & Logistics Models of fruits and vegetables.
3. To analyze the Challenges & Opportunities in Supply Chain Management to bridge the gaps between Rural & Urban Market.

Conclusion

Development of agriculture in India needs some critical management inputs particularly that of supply chain management- collaboration among various stake-holders along with efficient vertical and horizontal integration. The food and agriculture sector in particular has to prioritize development of research in the issues of genetics, biotechnology, integrated and sustainable production systems, post harvest handling, storage, marketing and consumer education. Government should create a policy environment that will ensure a mutually beneficial relationship between farmers and organized sector.

Along with investment in infrastructure, development of extension activities and linkages with farmers is also important areas where government can play influential roles.

References

1. Annamalai, K., & Rao, S. (2003). What works: ITC’s e-Choupal and profitable rural transformation: Web-based information and procurement tools for Indian farmers. World Resources Institute.
2. Bhardwaj, S. & Palaparthy, I. (2008). Factors Influencing Indian Supply Chains of fruits and Vegetables: A Literature Review. The Icfai University Journal of Supply Chain Management, 5(3), 59-68.
3. Bendat, J. S. (1990). Nonlinear system analysis and identification from random data. WileyInterscience.
4. Collins, M. D., Phillips, B. A., & Zanoni, P. (1989). Deoxyribonucleic acid homology studies of Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus paracasei sp. nov., subsp. paracasei and subsp. tolerans, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus sp. nov., comb. nov. Int J Syst Bacteriol, 39, 105-108.
5. Eggertsson, P. (1990). Economic behavior and institutions: Principles of Neoinstitutional Economics. Cambridge University Press.
6. Hobbs, J. E., & Young, L. M. (2000). Closer vertical co-ordination in agri-food supply chains: A conceptual framework and some preliminary evidence. Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, 5(3), 131-143.

In a world that is increasingly defined by urban landscapes and digital connectivity, I had the privilege of experiencing a childhood that was uniquely shaped by the rhythms of nature and the simplicity of rural life. Growing up on a farm was more than just a place to live; it was a canvas upon which I painted my fondest memories, learned valuable life lessons, and developed a deep connection to the land. This narrative essay explores the joys, challenges, and transformative experiences of growing up on a farm—a journey that fostered a lasting bond with nature and a profound appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

Thesis Statement

Growing up on a farm provided me with a unique upbringing that instilled a strong connection to nature, taught me valuable life skills, and shaped my perspective on the world.

The Symphony of Nature

From the earliest days of my childhood, the farm was my playground. The sunrises painted the sky with shades of orange and pink, while the sounds of birds chirping and cows lowing created a symphony that greeted me each morning. The fields stretched out like a sea of gold, swaying with the gentle breeze—a sight that instilled in me a deep reverence for the beauty and rhythm of nature.

Lessons in Hard Work

Life on the farm meant more than just enjoying the scenery; it was a daily lesson in hard work and responsibility. From tending to the animals to helping with planting and harvesting, each chore was an opportunity to learn the value of perseverance and dedication. The satisfaction of seeing the fruits of our labor—whether in the form of a bountiful harvest or the healthy growth of our livestock—instilled in me a sense of accomplishment that could never be replicated by any material possession.

Connection to Animals

Living on a farm meant forming bonds not only with the land but also with the animals that called it home. Each cow, chicken, and pig had a name and a unique personality. Caring for them taught me empathy, compassion, and the importance of nurturing living beings. I learned that every life had value, and this understanding left an indelible mark on my outlook on life.

Redefining Leisure

Growing up on a farm redefined the concept of leisure. While my friends in the city were engrossed in video games and digital distractions, my free time was spent exploring the acres of open space, building treehouses, and gazing at the stars. The simple joys of running through fields, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling the earth beneath my feet became the highlights of my days.

Harvesting Life’s Lessons

As the seasons changed, so did the lessons life on the farm had to offer. Spring was a time of renewal and growth, mirroring the possibilities that life held. Summer brought the heat and the energy of hard work, reminding me that effort and dedication were key ingredients to success. Autumn arrived with its harvest, teaching me the importance of reaping what you sow and appreciating the abundance life offers. Winter’s calmness and stillness reflected the need for rest and reflection before the cycle began anew.

Appreciation for Simplicity

Growing up on a farm taught me to appreciate the simple pleasures that life had to offer. Whether it was the taste of fresh produce, the warmth of a cozy fire on a cold night, or the sound of rain on a tin roof, I learned that happiness was often found in the small moments that brought us closer to nature and to each other.

Leaving a Lasting Impact

As I grew older, the farm became more than just a physical place; it became a part of my identity. The lessons I learned, the memories I made, and the connection to the land left an indelible mark on my heart. While I may no longer live on the farm, the values and perspectives it instilled in me continue to shape my decisions, my relationships, and my outlook on the world.

Conclusion: Nurtured by the Land

In conclusion, growing up on a farm was a transformative experience that taught me the beauty of nature, the importance of hard work, and the value of a simple and meaningful life. The farm was more than just a place; it was a sanctuary that nurtured my growth, both as an individual and as a steward of the land. The lessons I learned and the memories I cherish will forever serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of a childhood spent in harmony with nature’s rhythms.

Animal farm is an important allegorical work that demonstrates the possibilities of a government regulated by the community as a whole, where power is united, and leaders are given free rein to build up particular motivation that can unfavorably influence the population. The novella metaphorically represents the events leading up to the Russian Revolution, the foundation of the Soviet Union, and its tragic change into an extremist state governed by Stalin. George Orwell was able to foreshadow the human nature of our modern day society, and describe the way in which we all deceive and mistreat others for our self-benefit, to communicate throughout his story, the subjectivity to change the entire community holds. This tale is of the upmost value toward readers today, as the main principles of the story show relevance and relation to our habits as a nation in the present.

The topic of Religion is constantly conveyed in the passage through the character of Moses the “Tame” Raven, a sly and dark bird which uses his cunning charm to distract the other animals on the farm from the actuality of his words. The raven was consistently used as a metaphoric symbol in the novel for prophecy and insight, which would foretell the stories of a future time or an event that would soon come to pass. In Animal Farm, Moses shares with the rest of his neighbors, a tale of a heaven like place where all animals went once they had passed away. This utopia known as Sugar Candy Mountain would be used as his way of manipulation to give the other animals hope. “It was situated somewhere up in the sky, a little distance beyond the clouds, Moses said. In Sugar Candy Mountain it was Sunday seven days a week, clover was in season all the year round, and lump sugar and linseed cake grew on the hedges. The animals hated Moses because he told tales and did no work, but some of them believed in Sugar Candy Mountain, and the pigs had to argue very hard to persuade them that there was no such place.” (pg.15)For Orwell, religion was the illusion of happiness created as a moral justification for the intolerable acts that took place during the Revolution, much like how the animals believed in a potential afterlife which would protect them from the labor and pain they were forced to suffer in their daily lives.

Orwell also communicates the use of manipulation throughout Animal Farm. In the story, the pigs subtly rise to power, taking advantage of the other animals due to their lack of knowledge. From the beginning, the pigs constantly disobey the rules of the farm, changing the atmosphere they lived in. They wore clothes, slept in beds, walked on two legs, and even rewrote the words of the 7 commandments created by Old Major. Because they were smarter, Squealer, Napoleon, and Snowball felt entitled to the leadership roles of the area, acting as the tyrants of the farm, reserving power for themselves making them more like humans. As people, humans tend to lie, cheat, steal, and do anything in their power to clear their names or assume positions of authority. “The creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to tell which was which.”(pg.141)Like the apples and milk stored for the pigs, or the high rations of food taken away from the other “stupid” animals, the pigs always used their schemes of deception to change the way others viewed them.

In addition to this, Orwell develops the conversation of the corruption of power. When someone gains a position of authority that holds power, they tend to get carried away from time to time, changing their habits to adapt to a new lifestyle. George demonstrates this through Napoleon, one pig who ascended to the top, taking down anyone who stood in his way. Napoleon felt as if he deserved to constantly be in the spotlight, so he persuaded the other animals one by one to ditch their principles and morals of animalism, to convert to his side, under his rule. Napoleon slowly grew an army of “comrades” ready to stand and fight by his side. Before the rebellion, Napoleon swore he would always participate and work for the common good of the farm, but as the plot developed, he revealed his true colors, banishing the names of his former friends, changing the title of the farm, and creating a new set of laws to live by. “Napoleon was now never spoken of simply as “Napoleon”. He was always referred to in formal style as “our leader comrade Napoleon.”… It had become usual to give Napoleon the credit for every successful achievement and every stroke of good fortune.”(pg.93) As a result of his greed, selfishness, and longing for supremacy, Napoleon was not able break the unfortunate destiny toward the finish of the play that was his very own consequence doing. Power can change individuals into the thing or character that said they never would be. Supreme control changes individuals and makes something new and generally a beast.

Animal Farm shows key importance in the development of today’s modern day society as it gives a political and metaphorical standpoint on how people as a community act. It shows how humans are able to deceive and change their ways in order to get what they want. The novellas satirical storyline was able to use animals as a hidden message for the way in which we all manipulate others for our self enhancement.

Works Cited

1. Orwell, George, Baker, Russell, Woodhouse, C.M. Animal Farm. New York, New York. New American Library. Penguin Group (USA). Copyright Harcourt Inc. 1946. First Signet Classics Printing March 1956.