New Delhi: Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has underscored the critical need to ensure the timely availability of fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides as the country gears up for the Kharif season. Reviewing the preparedness for the Kharif season 2024 at Krishi Bhawan, Minister Chouhan directed officials to guarantee the timely distribution and quality supply of these essential inputs to farmers.
During the high-level meeting, Chouhan stressed that any delays in the supply chain could negatively impact the sowing process, thereby affecting overall production. He instructed the relevant departments to monitor and review the situation continuously to prevent any hardships for farmers.
Chouhan expressed optimism about the forecast for an above-normal Southwest monsoon this year, which bodes well for the upcoming planting season. Presentations were made by officials from the Department of Fertilizers, the Central Water Commission, and the Indian Meteorological Department, providing insights and updates on preparations. Secretary of the Department for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Manoj Ahuja, and senior ministry officials briefed the Minister on the current status and plans for the Kharif season.
Earlier, while reviewing the functioning of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Minister Chouhan called for increased mechanization of farms to enhance agricultural productivity. He highlighted the importance of linking agricultural education with practical farming practices, ensuring that graduates in agricultural sciences can contribute effectively to the sector.
Chouhan emphasized the need for intensive discussions on improving the utility of Kisan Vikas Kendras (KVKs) to ensure they benefit the country’s farmers comprehensively. He advocated for the effective use of technological practices to bring about a revolution in the agriculture sector and encouraged scientists to focus on improving productivity and developing new crop breeds.
The Minister also highlighted the need to simplify natural farming practices to encourage more farmers to adopt them. Secretary of DARE and Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Himanshu Pathak, briefed the Minister on the activities and the 100-day plan of ICAR. He informed that the plan includes developing one hundred new crop varieties and certifying one hundred new technologies.
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