GROWING ORGANIC FOOD MARKET - A HOPE FOR CHECKING OUTMIGRATION FROM UTTARAKHAND

Growing demand for organic food and its largely developing market has shown a ray of hope to check out migration in Himalayan state of uttarakhand as mostly the farmers in Uttarakhand in rain fed conditions are by default practicing organic farming. This challenge of the farmers in uttarakhand can be converted into opportunity as it would provide them a better livelihood. There is enormous possibility of cultivation of medicinal plants and herbs including the food grain due to the varied landscape of the state. In the absence of any opportunities for livelihood, basic amenities for living, proper education facilities, health and other facilities, and many other troubles are becoming push factors for migration of population from hills to the plains. The rising problem of migration from the villages has caused a serious distress for the economy of the state. Uttarakhand government has established Uttarakhand organic commodity Board (UOCB) in this direction to explore the possibilities of organic farming in Uttarakhand and encourage farmers towards adopting organic agriculture practices so that the economy of the state is improved and problem of migration can also be combated.