Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Sh. Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that the Government will make farmers self-reliant and transform the agriculture landscape of India. The minister was addressing a convention of farmers organized under the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' (VKSA) at R. S. Pura Jammu today. He was accompanied by the Union Minister of State, Science and Technology; MoS PMO, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh.

The Union Minister paid homage to the brave soldiers stationed at the border areas and lauded the enduring resilience of farmers living under the constant shadow of cross-border threats. The Minister emphasized the government's dedication to national security and agricultural prosperity.

The Minister upheld the valour of Indian soldiers and recognized the significance of Operation Sindoor, during which calculated strikes were conducted on terror infrastructure across the border. “It was a necessary step, Pakistan's attempts to infiltrate with drones and missiles were dealt with decisively. This is a tribute to the strength of our armed forces and the will of the Indian people,” he said.

The Minister highlighted the vital role of farmers living in border regions, describing them as the second line of defence. Terming the courage of farmers as unmatched he said that despite facing constant danger farmers continue to cultivate the land and feed the nation.

He assured the local farming community that their concerns, particularly regarding land rights, security infrastructure, and access to government schemes, have been heard. “The demand for more bunkers in vulnerable areas will be strongly raised in New Delhi. Your safety is our priority,” he affirmed.

Addressing the critical issue of water sharing with neighbouring countries, the Minister criticized the decisions of previous government that allowed 80% of India’s water resources to flow out of the country. “These water resources belong to Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, Punjab, Rajasthan and others areas of the country. I commend the Hon’ble Prime Minister for putting the Indus Water Treaty on hold. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee rightly opposed the decision to give away our precious resources.

The Minister praised the renowned R.S. Pura Basmati rice, noting that productivity is expected to rise with the introduction of advanced agricultural techniques and research. “I am here to experience first-hand the life and challenges of farmers in border areas. Together, we will ensure that schemes like PM Kisan Nidhi reach every deserving farmer,” he said.

Underlining the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat, he said that there can be no Viksit Bharat without Viksit Krishi highlighting that the agricultural production has reached an all-time high in this year, thanks to the hard work of the farmers and scientists. As part of an ongoing agricultural transformation, he revealed that research scientists will now visit villages, address farmer queries, and provide hands-on guidance to tackle crop diseases and boost productivity. “Maintain close contact with these scientists. They are your partners in progress,” he urged.

The Minister thanked the Prime Minister, the state government, and the farmers of Jammu for their efforts and cooperation. He reiterated his mission to elevate the agriculture sector to new heights, ensuring that Jammu & Kashmir becomes a model agri-region for the nation. He said that under the leadership of the Prime Minister, the government has taken a resolve to transform the agriculture sector by incorporating latest trends, technologies and modern research.

Shri Chouhan emphasized that his life is devoted to serving farmers, increasing agricultural output, lowering production costs and protecting the nation’s food supply. He highlighted that a balanced use of fertilizers, a deep understanding of local conditions and access to high-quality seeds are key factors that can significantly boost the productivity of farmers. He said that the Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ministry, State Agriculture Ministry, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Krishi Vigyan Kendra and all agricultural institutes should work together as a team to realise this goal.

Stressing the importance of collaboration, Shri Chouhan highlighted that VKSA is a progressive step towards connecting scientists, officials, and farmers. He reiterated the government’s proactive role in advancing agricultural research assuring that there would be no shortage of funding for research and innovation. He highlighted that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi is dedicated to taking the country forward. "Modiji's goal is to build a glorious, powerful, prosperous, rich and developed India," he added.

Terming the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan as a result-driven initiative, he expressed confidence that its benefits including higher crop yields and reduced input costs would be evident as early as the upcoming Kharif season.

The Minister informed that ICAR has 113 institutes across the country and the government is working to bridge the gap between laboratories and farmlands. "With 16,000 agricultural scientists under ICAR, scientists will visit villages as a team along with agricultural extension officers to educate farmers about new seed varieties and innovative farming practices," he said.

Sh. Chouhan further stated that during the 15-day campaign from May 29 to June 12, agricultural scientists will visit villages to guide farmers on sustainable farming practices and plan for the Kharif season.

The campaign aims to educate farmers about modern technologies for major Kharif crops specific to different regions, raise awareness about beneficial government schemes and policies, guide farmers on using Soil Health Cards for crop selection and balanced fertilizer application, and collect feedback to understand farmer-led innovations and steer research directions accordingly.

Earlier the Minister formally inaugurated a newly established Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO), a collective initiative aimed at empowering small and marginal farmers by enhancing their bargaining power, improving access to markets, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The FPO is expected to play a pivotal role in streamlining agricultural production and ensuring better returns for farmers through collective marketing and value addition.

Following the inauguration, he led a pad yatra (foot march) to the venue of the main event. The procession was marked by a strong sense of solidarity and enthusiasm, as he was joined by a large number of progressive farmers, dedicated agricultural activists, and members of the local community. The yatra symbolized shared commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and highlighting the importance of grassroots participation in rural development.

Later the minister also visited Mega Fruit Plant Nursery Chakrohi and highlighted that the government has started Clean plant program. He assured the gathering of farmers and agriculturalists that GoI will provide all possible help for further improving the agricultural efficiency and productivity.

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Neha Jalali/Muzafar Wani

Shiv Press Release