Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Discusses
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has emphasized the critical need to ensure the timely availability of fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides for the upcoming Kharif season. During a review meeting for Kharif 2024 preparations at Krishi Bhawan, Minister Chouhan instructed officials to guarantee the prompt distribution and quality supply of essential input materials for crops. He highlighted that any disruptions in the supply chain could delay sowing, adversely affecting production, and should therefore be avoided at all costs.
Key Preparations for Kharif Season:
Minister Chouhan directed the relevant departments to continuously monitor and review the situation to prevent any hardships for farmers. He expressed satisfaction with the forecast for an above-normal Southwest Monsoon this year. Presentations were made by officials from the Department of Fertilizers, the Central Water Commission, and the India Meteorological Department. Secretary of the Department for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Manoj Ahuja, along with senior ministry officials, briefed the Minister on the Kharif season’s preparedness.
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Enhancing Agricultural Productivity and Mechanization:
In an earlier review of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Minister Chouhan underscored the importance of increasing farm mechanization to improve agricultural productivity. He also stressed the need to link agricultural education with professional practices, ensuring that those attaining higher education in agricultural sciences are connected to practical farming. Shri Chouhan called for intensive discussions on enhancing the utility of Krishi Vikas Kendras (KVKs) to reach the last farmer in the country. He noted that the effective use of technological practices could revolutionize the agriculture sector and urged scientists to continuously work on improving productivity and developing new crop breeds. Additionally, the Minister mentioned that natural farming practices should be simplified to encourage wider adoption among farmers.
The 100-Day Plan:
DARE Secretary and ICAR Director General, Shri Himanshu Pathak, briefed the Minister on the activities and the 100-day plan of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The plan aims to boost the agriculture sector and alleviate farmer distress. It includes developing one hundred crop varieties and certifying one hundred new technologies within the 100-day timeframe. During the meetings, Ministers of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur and Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, were also present. The Minister emphasized the importance of providing farmers with high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and other essential materials to enhance crop yields and improve their economic conditions.
The agriculture sector faces challenges from irregular monsoons, pest attacks, and market price fluctuations. In this context, the Central Government’s 100-day action plan is crucial for revitalizing the fortunes of the farming community.