Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reviews preparedness for ensuing Kharif season

Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, emphasized the importance of ensuring the timely availability of fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides for the upcoming Kharif season. During a meeting at Krishi Bhawan with officials from various departments, Shri Chouhan directed them to ensure timely distribution and high-quality supply of input materials for the crops. He highlighted that any disruption in the supply chain could lead to delays in sowing, thereby affecting production, and should be avoided. The minister instructed the concerned department to constantly monitor and review the situation to prevent any difficulties for the farmers. Shri Chouhan also expressed satisfaction with the above-normal prediction for the Southwest monsoon this year. Presentations were made by officials from the Department of Fertilizers, the Central Water Commission, and the Indian Meteorological Department. The Secretary of the Department for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Manoj Ahuja, along with senior officials, briefed the Minister on the preparedness for the Kharif season.

During the review of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), the minister emphasized the need for increased mechanization of farms to enhance agricultural productivity. He also highlighted the importance of linking agricultural education with practical farming, aiming to connect higher education in agricultural sciences with farming practices. Additionally, Shri Chouhan underlined the need for extensive discussions to enhance the effectiveness of Kisan Vikas Kendras (KVKs) and ensure their reach to all farmers in the country. He also stressed the potential of technological advancements to bring about a revolution in the agriculture sector and urged scientists to focus on improving productivity and developing new breeds. Furthermore, Shri Chouhan emphasized the simplification of natural farming practices to encourage more farmers to adopt them. Secretary, DARE and DG, ICAR, Shri Himanshu Pathak, briefed the Minister on the activities and the 100-day plan of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). He informed that the 100-day plan for ICAR includes the development of one hundred crop varieties and the certification of one hundred new technologies.