Strengthening India’s Agricultural Sector
India’s agricultural sector plays a vital role in the nation’s economy, contributing 18 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the resilience of this sector compared to others worldwide. The Indian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is committed to enhancing agriculture further. Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, recently addressed the Platinum Jubilee Conference of the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics in Pune. He emphasized the government’s dedication to making India a global food basket and the importance of integrating research with practical farming.
Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture
During his address, Minister Chouhan stressed the need for sustainable farming practices. He urged a shift away from the indiscriminate use of pesticides, advocating for natural farming methods. This approach not only protects the environment but also enhances the quality of agricultural produce. Chouhan highlighted that the earth is home to all living creatures, and agriculture should respect this balance. The government is actively working to increase farmers’ storage capacities and improve the logistics of transporting their products to distant markets. This initiative aims to ensure that farmers can access broader markets, ultimately increasing their income and reducing waste.
The government is also developing new schemes to facilitate the transportation of agricultural products. By collaborating with state governments, the central government aims to create a seamless network for farmers to sell their goods. This initiative will empower farmers, allowing them to reach consumers directly and maximize their profits. The focus on sustainable practices and improved logistics is crucial for the future of Indian agriculture.
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Farmers
Minister Chouhan emphasized the importance of connecting researchers with farmers. He believes that scientific advancements should not remain confined to laboratories but should be shared with those who work the land. To facilitate this exchange, the government has launched the “Modern Krishi Choupal” program on the DD Kisan Channel. This platform allows farmers, researchers, and scientists to discuss challenges and explore new opportunities in agriculture.
Chouhan pointed out that information about agriculture should be accessible in multiple languages, not just English. This inclusivity will help bridge the gap between research and practical application. By ensuring that farmers understand the latest agricultural techniques and technologies, the government aims to empower them to make informed decisions. This collaboration between scientists and farmers is essential for addressing the challenges faced by the agricultural sector.
Future Initiatives and Technological Advancements
Looking ahead, the Indian government plans to launch a river-linking project on December 25, 2024. This initiative aims to address the disparities in water availability across the country. Some regions experience floods, while others suffer from droughts. The river linking project will help manage water resources more effectively, benefiting both types of areas.
Minister Chouhan also highlighted the need for innovative irrigation technologies that use less water while maximizing crop yield. Reducing production costs is another priority for the government. Last year, the government provided substantial subsidies to farmers, ensuring they have access to necessary resources without relying on money lenders. The introduction of the Kisan Credit Card has made it easier for farmers to access immediate funds.
Furthermore, the government is committed to providing a minimum support price that is at least double what it was in 2014. This policy aims to alleviate financial pressure on farmers and reduce dependence on imports. By creating favorable policies, the government seeks to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and strengthen the agricultural sector as a whole.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn