Which one of the following agricultural practices is eco-friendly ?

Organic farming emphasizes crop rotation, green manure and biological pest control to maintain soil health, release nutrients naturally, and produce food in an eco-friendly, pollution-free environment, preserving regenerative capacity of soil [1]. Shifting (jhum) or slash-and-burn cultivation involves clearing and burning forests, leading to depletion of forest, water and soil resources and reduced fertility, making it environmentally harmful [2]. Cultivation of high-yielding varieties often demands increased chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can degrade soil health and ecology [3]. Protected cultivation in poly/greenhouses controls growth factors and can increase income, but relies on high-tech inputs and energy for climate control rather than being inherently low-impact [4]. Hence organic farming is the most eco-friendly choice.

Sources

1. [1] Indian Economy, Vivek Singh (7th ed. 2023-24) > Chapter 11: Agriculture - Part II > 11.9 Organic Farming > p. 345
2. [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 5: Natural Vegetation and National Parks > 3. Shifting Cultivation > p. 30
3. [3] https://keralaagriculture.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/package_2015.pdf
4. [4] Indian Economy, Vivek Singh (7th ed. 2023-24) > Chapter 11: Agriculture - Part II > 11.14 Protected Cultivation > p. 354