Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on July 09, 2025, said that the Modi government has consistently prioritised the agriculture sector, with key initiatives aimed at improving farmer welfare, boosting exports, and modernising agricultural practices.
Speaking at the 16th Agriculture Leadership Conclave in New Delhi, Minister Goyal said that over 25 crore Soil Health Cards have been distributed across the country to promote balanced fertiliser use. Crop loans have also become more accessible through the Kisan Credit Card scheme, he noted.
Highlighting the impact of the PM-KISAN scheme, the minister said a large number of farmer families have benefitted from the direct income support programme. He added that 1,400 mandis have now been integrated into the e-NAM digital platform, helping farmers access real-time market prices and expand their market reach.
Goyal also pointed out that even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centre ensured uninterrupted fertiliser supply, supported by generous subsidies to keep prices affordable for farmers.
On the export front, the minister said that India’s agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries sectors have demonstrated resilience despite global uncertainties. Together, they achieved exports worth Rs 4 lakh crore, with products such as basmati rice, spices, fruits, vegetables, and poultry gaining traction in international markets.
He said the government’s Free Trade Agreements with countries like Australia, the UAE, EFTA nations, and the UK have opened up new avenues for agri-exports, backed by reduced tariffs and supportive policies.
Looking ahead, Goyal said there is immense potential in natural and organic farming, improved seed quality, and efficient irrigation techniques like drip irrigation. He also underscored the government's push towards digital agriculture, which includes the use of artificial intelligence, geospatial technology, weather forecasting tools, vertical farming, and smart devices to support farmers and agri-cooperatives.
He added that increased focus on food processing, value addition, branding, and packaging will further boost agriculture’s contribution to the economy. Goyal reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a secure and prosperous future for Indian farmers, calling agriculture a central pillar of the Viksit Bharat vision.
