Nationwide ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ Kicks Off in Odisha to Empower 1.5 Crore Farmers

Puri: In a major push to modernize Indian agriculture, the Government of India today launched the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Sakshigopal, Puri. The initiative, aimed at directly engaging with 1.5 crore farmers across the country, was inaugurated by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

The launch event began with both leaders planting saplings under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, a symbolic gesture reinforcing environmental commitment alongside agricultural progress.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Majhi said the campaign, which runs until June 12, is a landmark step toward making farmers aware of new agricultural technologies and advanced seed varieties. He announced that three dedicated teams in every district—comprising scientists from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and officials from agriculture-related departments—will visit two villages daily, interacting with about 250 farmers in each village.

“These teams will not only spread awareness about modern farming techniques but also explain various Central and State Government welfare schemes, promote soil health testing, and guide farmers on climate-resilient practices,” he said.

Majhi emphasized that this campaign is a part of the Centre’s broader vision to integrate farmers into the economic mainstream. “Historic steps are being taken to ensure fair prices for crops, especially paddy, and to enhance farmers’ income through the adoption of modern practices,” he noted.

Union Minister Chouhan, in his address, praised Odisha for setting a national benchmark in farmer welfare. Highlighting the Samruddha Krushak Yojana, he said, “The state is procuring paddy at ₹3,100 per quintal—₹800 more than the minimum support price. This model reflects a government that truly values its farmers.”

Chouhan also drew attention to the Subhadra Scheme, which has significantly benefited women in Odisha. He stated that the state’s integrated approach to agricultural development and women’s empowerment is positioning it as a model for others to follow.

Adding to this, Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo said that launching the campaign from Odisha demonstrates the state’s leadership role in agricultural reform. “The Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan is a unique opportunity to mechanize and empower our farmers with the knowledge and tools required to thrive,” he added.

With its wide reach and structured village-level engagement, the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan marks a significant step toward building a self-reliant and progressive agricultural sector in India.