Pune: Highlighting the pivotal role of agriculture in India’s economy, Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming India into the food basket of the world. Addressing the Platinum Jubilee Conference of the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (AERC) in Pune today, Chouhan underlined the agriculture sector’s significant contribution to the country’s GDP, accounting for 18%, and its resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The agriculture sector demonstrated its strength during the pandemic, showcasing India’s capacity to outperform many nations. Our government is tirelessly working to strengthen this sector further,” Chouhan said.
Stressing the importance of sustainable practices, Chouhan urged a shift away from indiscriminate pesticide use, advocating for natural farming methods to enhance production quality. “This earth is not just for humans but for all living creatures. Natural farming is the need of the hour, and we must fully harness its potential,” he said.
To support this vision, the central government is working on increasing farmers’ storage capacity and launching new schemes to transport agricultural products to distant markets. Collaborative efforts between state and central governments aim to bridge logistical gaps, ensuring better market access for farmers.
Chouhan highlighted the government’s focus on fostering innovation, including the launch of the Modern Krishi Choupal on DD Kisan Channel. This platform enables farmers, researchers, and scientists to exchange ideas and address agricultural challenges collaboratively. He also emphasized the need for disseminating agricultural information in multiple Indian languages to connect research with practical applications effectively.
Announcing the launch of a special river linking project by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 25, Chouhan said the initiative would address the dual challenges of floods and droughts in different regions. The project aims to balance water distribution across the country, benefiting both rain-rich and drought-prone areas.
Chouhan noted the government’s strides in doubling the minimum support price (MSP) for many agricultural products between 2014 and 2024, providing significant relief to farmers. The introduction of the Kisan Credit Card scheme has also ensured farmers have access to immediate credit, reducing dependence on moneylenders.
Reflecting on 70 years of progress, Chouhan called for renewed efforts to bridge gaps between agricultural research and implementation. “We need to introspect on our gains and losses and focus on strengthening technical and practical solutions to empower farmers,” he said, urging researchers and farmers to work in tandem for sustainable development.
