Vol. 10, Special Issue 1, Part O (2026)

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2020 at the Horticulture Research Farm, College of Horticulture, Anand Agricultural University, Gujarat, to evaluate the performance of organic farming and low-cost natural farming (LCNF) modules in an okra + cowpea intercropping system, in comparison with integrated and conventional farming systems. The study assessed growth parameters, yield attributes, system productivity, and economics using the Large Plot Technique. Results showed that growth parameters of okra and cowpea were not significantly affected by different farming systems; however, organic and natural farming modules maintained comparable crop growth to integrated and conventional systems. Yield performance of okra and cowpea under organic and natural farming systems was statistically similar to other systems, demonstrating their biological viability. System productivity in terms of okra equivalent yield remained competitive under organic and natural farming. Economic analysis revealed that organic farming recorded the highest benefit-cost ratio due to lower input costs and higher net returns, highlighting its economic sustainability. The findings confirm that organic and natural farming systems can sustain crop growth, productivity, and profitability in vegetable-based intercropping systems, offering viable, low-input and environmentally sustainable alternatives to conventional production systems.