Advanced Course on Non Pesticidal Management

Pests and pesticides present a significant challenge in agriculture, leading to substantial losses for farmers. The widespread use of monocultures and increased reliance on chemical pesticides has disrupted the ecological balance, triggering pest outbreaks. This has led to the resurgence and resistance of pests, while pesticide residues in the air, soil, water, and food pose serious environmental and health risks.

Addressing this issue requires more than simply substituting one chemical with another or replacing chemical pesticides with biopesticides or herbal concoctions. A new ecological pest management framework is needed, one that focuses on restoring ecological balance through changes in cropping patterns and farming practices.

Non-Pesticidal Management (NPM) is one such approach that enables farmers to control pests without using chemical pesticides. The Centre for Sustainable Agriculture has been a pioneer in developing and promoting this model in collaboration with farmers, grassroots organizations, and through various programs across the country since 2004.

Since its implementation in 2005-06, NPM has gained widespread acceptance among academics, development organizations, and those practicing agroecology. Over time, the NPM approach has evolved based on the challenges encountered, lessons learned, and resource limitations in different regions. With these insights, the course is designed to equip frontline workers and resource persons with the knowledge to implement this approach with farmers.

After completing the training, participants will be able to apply their learning in their areas of work. Our digital field schools offer ongoing support, providing fortnightly interactions, suggestions, and solutions to challenges that participants may face in the field.

Medium of Instruction: English

Course Format: Self-learning and online live sessions

• Total Course Duration: 30 hours
• Self-learning modules: 20 hours (text and video content)
• Interactive sessions: 10 hours of live Zoom sessions, conducted weekly (3 days, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM; schedule provided upon registration)
• Boot camp: Participants have the option to attend a boot camp for hands-on practice or join an on-campus course at a discounted rate.