In the rapid growing urbanization, especially in the metros, it is not sure that it really leads to development of the society nor becoming a threat to it. The urbanization leads to shrinkage of the fertile and farming lands to concrete monuments for human to work in an artificial atmosphere. The vertical urbanization is very common in the cities than horizontal, due to shortage of lands. This leads to the vital resources of food and vegetables in scarce for the drastically overflowing population, ends up in fast foods and packed foods culture, that is far from organic foods, which is a clear path towards obesity, diabetes and high rate of heart disease among the youth. This study is an initiative to bring out the feasibility of urban farming that struggles to strengthen its roots in our nation. The research focuses on the challenges and opportunities of urban farming in the society. The outcomes shall bring out societal views on urban farming and the suggest ways to overcome the hindrances and facilitate the people towards utilizing the opportunities of urban farming with its benefits and ‘Let the City Grow Green', which is the way to enrich health for their present and future generations.
TopIntroduction
In the recent walks of urban life, the life is becoming intense. This also lead to the good fact of more popularity of urban farming in the last few years as concerns about the environment have combined with increased interest in health and community development. This gave raise to support for food systems in metro areas as an integral part of a sustainable development. However, they face many challenges, which accounts for the fact that a number of resources provided in this study pertaining to the recent data. The city’s food system is governed by local, regional and global systems of production and consumption.
Urban farming is not a new concept; however, it is a rapidly growing, which developing economies are adopting. With more than 2 billion people, now residing in cities around the world it is increasingly important that we use forgotten spaces to adopt practices that will benefit both the environment and our society.
Urban farming is highly optimistic in the garden space and in the rooftops. The crops that are very much required for the day-to-day life are mostly grown in all climate and hence all the food crops of the city needs can be grown within city itself, provided the urban farming is spread completely. There are also legitimate health concerns surrounding urban farming, particularly in terms of recycling of wastes into fertilizers. The part of rainwater harvesting shall be directed for home based farms. This will also avoid the stagnation of water and other waste and helps in controlling the spread of diseases. Recently there is strong evidence, that these concerns are far outweighed by the current and potential benefits of urban farming. Particularly in developing countries like India, urban farming enhances household food security, which is free from chemicals. This currently draws the societal attention. Urban farming also plays a vital role in engaging the women and youth in gaining the fullest advantage of the available resources. It is increasingly recognized that, effectively managed, urban farming contributes to the eco-friendly environment.
Significance of Urban Farming
Urban farming is becoming a popular option among metro residents. Now-a-days lot of people are concerned over their health and quality of life. There are plenty of options for urban dwellers to have their own farm at home. These options make it easier for individuals and families to reap the benefits of growing their own vegetables. The following are some of the benefits of urban farming:
- •
Pollution free air.
- •
Reduces the risk of respiratory problems and headaches.
- •
Creates access to fresh vegetables at home.
- •
Reduced risk of chemical ingestion found in foods and vegetables.
- •
Increased awareness about the need for improving eco-friendly environment.
- •
Plants are safeguarded from pests and chemicals.
Review Of Literature
Jitendra Pandey and Ashima Singh (2012), states that Organic farming follows the principle of circular causation and has emerged in response to questions on health, environment and sustainability issues. In this review, we assess the status, opportunities and C- sequestration potentials of in India. We identify constraints that impede adoption of especially for small farm holders who constitute over 70% of farming community in India. With large land area and climate diversity, India has a considerable potential to contribute to C-sequestration.