Harvesting Health: Revolutionizing Living Spaces with Urban Farming in Delhi NCR

Recently we came across numerous media feeds on Delhi High court taking cognisance of providing safe milk to the urban population in Delhi NCR region.

State of Peri-urban dairy farming in Delhi NCR

Observing that “citizens are consuming” milk products “which may not be very safe”, the Delhi High Court said it will set up a “pilot project” in Madanpur Khadar Dairy — one of the nine designated dairies in the city — to address issues such as the use of “spurious” banned drugs like Oxytocin which increases milk production, cattle health, and hygiene at the premises. A division bench led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora responded to a petition on the conditions of dairy colonies by pledging to issue an order and establish a team, including the Delhi State Legal Services Authority, to ensure immediate compliance.

Urban farming-emerging trends and scope

In a seminal research paper with the above captioned title, the authors, Maneesha et al in Indian Farmers discussed in detail the importance of creating farming opportunities in Urban areas.

Urban farming involves growing plants and raising animals and fish in urban and peri-urban areas. With 55% of the world's population currently residing in urban areas and projected to reach 68% by 2050, urbanites heavily rely on market food, leading to health issues like malnutrition, diabetes, and obesity. Market produce often contains harmful chemicals, prompting a preference for safe organic options. Urban agriculture, practiced at various scales, utilizes local resources to produce a variety of crops, livestock, fish, and honey. Approximately 800 million urban dwellers worldwide, comprising 10.38% of the total population, engage in urban farming to address these three benefits.

1. Health and Nutritional Benefits: Urban farming ensures food and nutrition security by providing fresh, organic produce directly to consumers, meeting recommended dietary guidelines. Engaging in agriculture activities promotes physical and mental health, bridging the gap in per capita consumption of fruits and vegetables in India.
2. Socio-economic Benefits: Urban farming reduces expenses on food and healthcare while contributing to family income. Community farming fosters social bonds among residents, enhancing societal well-being. Community gardens serve as leisure spaces and venues for community events, promoting cohesion.
3. Environmental Benefits: Urban farming mitigates heat, dust, and pollutants, improving air quality and livability. The presence of pollinating insects and birds enhances biodiversity. Biodegradable waste is recycled into fertilizers, supporting sustainable farming practices and waste management.

Unique dairy farming model in Mexico and Ethiopia

Urban housing growth in Delhi NCR

As per Economic Survey of Delhi 2022-23, Delhi, with the highest population density of 11,320 persons per sq km in 2011, is predominantly urban, with 75% of its total area falling under urban jurisdiction. The urban population density stands at 14,698 persons per sq km. Approximately 16.37 million people, constituting 98% of Delhi's total population, reside in urban areas. This urban density exerts immense pressure on public service delivery and civic infrastructure, including water supply, sewerage, solid waste management, and housing. Approximately one-third of Delhi's population lives in substandard housing, including slums, unauthorized colonies, and dilapidated areas. Projections indicate a need for 2.4 million new housing units by 2021, with 54% required for economically weaker sections and lower-income groups. Around 42% of these units are needed for residential areas.

The trend of urban expansion in Delhi from 1989 to 2020 can be seen as below.

 

Urban Farming the need of the hour

Urban farming has emerged as a promising solution to address food security, environmental sustainability, and community resilience in rapidly expanding urban landscapes of Delhi NCR. In the context of housing societies in India, the integration of dairy farming alongside vegetable cultivation and efficient organic waste management presents a compelling vision for the future.

In envisioning the inclusion of dairy farming in urban housing societies, several factors need consideration. First and foremost, space constraints demand innovative solutions such as vertical farming or rooftop installations for dairy operations. Additionally, advancements in urban agriculture technologies, such as automated feeding and milking systems, can streamline operations within limited spaces.

Regulatory frameworks play a pivotal role in shaping the feasibility and sustainability of such initiatives. Policies need to be formulated to address zoning regulations, waste management protocols, and animal welfare standards. Clear guidelines on the disposal of organic waste, particularly dung from dairy operations, are essential to prevent environmental pollution and ensure efficient resource utilization.

Organic aspect of urban farming

Integrating dung into the agricultural cycle as organic fertilizer holds significant potential. By composting dung and other organic waste, housing societies can create nutrient-rich soil amendments for cultivating vegetables and other crops. This closed-loop approach not only reduces reliance on synthetic fertilizers but also mitigates the environmental impact of waste disposal.

Moreover, community engagement and education are crucial for the success of urban farming initiatives. Residents need to be sensitized about the benefits of sustainable farming practices, waste segregation techniques, and the importance of local food production. Collaborative efforts involving residents, local authorities, and agricultural experts can foster a culture of environmental stewardship and self-sufficiency.