Description
The article examines how different soil health initiatives conceive of and shape farmer identities, knowledge and decision-making capacities. It traces shifts in how farmers are positioned as subjects.
Findings
The SHC scheme positions farmers as implementers of expert recommendations
ZBNF emphasizes farmer experimentation and indigenous knowledge
State-led natural farming programs are creating a “market of ideas” where farmers can choose between approaches.
Stats
Fertilizer use in India quadrupled between 1965-1975 due to Green Revolution technologies
Natural farming adopted by ~10% of farmers on 0.6% of agricultural land in Himachal Pradesh.