Natural Farming represents an agro-ecological methodology for farming that emphasizes regenerative practices with an aim to promote holistic ecological balance and reduce the dependence on external inputs as well as financial resources. Substantial concern has recently arisen over the need to promote agroecosystems that are more sustainable in order to improve the deteriorating soil health as well as reversing the yield plateau of crop. So, the current on farm field experiment was executed comprising of 8 treatments with different combination of natural farming inputs (Ghanjeevamrit, Jeevamrit, Beejamrit), organic fertilizer (such as FYM), integrated nutrient management (NPK, FYM, Azotobacter and Azolla) and in-organic(NPK) to examine and compare the consequence of natural farming inputs, organic fertilizer and in-organic dosage of fertilizer on soil nitrogen uptake, soil physicochemical properties, soil biological properties, soil microbial population and crop yields in a rice-wheat cropping system over two crop seasons 2021–23 [rice (Pusa-1509) and wheat (HD-3086)]. The study results demonstrated that there was significant (p < 0.05) increase in the soil’s nitrogen availability and nitrogen uptake with the use of natural farming inputs as compared to control treatment, whereas, natural farming treatments (T_NF1, T_NF2, T_NF3, T_MNF) were inferior than integrated nutrient management (T_INM) and recommended doses of fertilizer (T_RDF) treatment in case of nitrogen uptake by both rice and wheat crop. The soil enzymatic activity (Dehydrogenase, β-glucosidase, and urease), soil microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen, and soil microbial population (Bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in treatment receiving natural farming inputs compare to in-organic fertilizer and organic fertilizer. A positive and significant correlation was observed between potential mineralization nitrogen and soil enzymatic activity (Dehydrogenase, β-glucosidase, and urease), soil microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen and soil microbial population (Bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes). The crop yield at the end of experiment recorded to be highest in treatment T_INM(75% RDF (In-organic) + 25% RDF (FYM) + BGA) i.e., (Rice- 4.76 t/ha and Wheat- 5.82 t/ha) compared to T_RDFand T_NF. A crop yield reduction of 14.2% was observed in treatment receiving natural farming inputs compare to T_INM. A significant increase in crop yield was observed in T_MNF(Jeevamrit (25%) + Ghanjeevamrit (25%) + 50% RDF through FYM + Beejamrit) compare to Tc (Control) and T_FYM(Farmyard manure). Therefore, our study suggests that adoption of natural farming inputs over time can facilitate the enhancement of soil biological health of Inceptisol of Trans Gangetic Plain of India.

In pursuit of sustainable agricultural development and improved livelihoods, the integration of diverse farming practices has emerged as a promising strategy. This paper explores the concept of Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) as a means to enhance farmer prosperity and increase income. By integrating various components such as crops, livestock, aquaculture, agroforestry, and other allied activities, IFS offers multifaceted benefits including enhanced resource utilization, risk mitigation, and income diversification. Drawing upon empirical evidence and case studies from diverse agricultural contexts, this paper elucidates the principles, challenges, and opportunities associated with the adoption of IFS. Furthermore, it highlights the role of supportive policies, institutional mechanisms, and extension services in facilitating the transition towards integrated farming models. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and practical experiences, this paper provides insights into the potential of Integrated Farming Systems to contribute towards the overarching goal of doubling farmer income while promoting ecological sustainability and resilience in agriculture