Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF)

Why it matters

Helps farmers learn chemical-free, low-cost natural farming methods through trained peer farmers, reducing input costs while improving soil health over time.

What you get

APCNF is a large-scale natural farming programme implemented by Rythu Sadhikara Samstha (RySS) on behalf of the state government. It trains farmers, especially through women's self-help groups, in natural farming practices such as multi-cropping, use of farm-made bio-inputs, and soil-health-building techniques that reduce dependence on synthetic fertilisers and pesticides. The programme aims to lower input costs and build long-term resilience, and is implemented in convergence with various central and state schemes rather than through cash transfer alone.

Eligibility criteria

• Farmer cultivating land within an APCNF-active village/cluster in Andhra Pradesh
• Willingness to adopt natural farming practices on at least part of the landholding
• Membership of a village/farmer group encouraged for peer learning

How to apply

1. 1

   Contact your village agriculture/RySS natural-farming volunteer or local RBK to check if your village is an active APCNF cluster

2. 2

   Join the farmer field school or training sessions offered in your cluster

3. 3

   Begin phased transition of selected plots to natural farming practices with guidance from trained peer farmers

Documents required

• Aadhaar card
• Land records