Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan met Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Krishi Bhawan in New Delhi to discuss the holistic development of agriculture and rural sectors in the state. The meeting focused on enhancing central support to Rajasthan’s schemes, especially in employment generation, housing, and irrigation development.
During the meeting, Union Minister highlighted that the Ministry of Rural Development had released Rs 4,384 crore to Rajasthan under MGNREGA for the ongoing financial year. This includes Rs 3,286 crore for wages, Rs 944 crore for materials, and Rs 154 crore for administrative expenses. Chief Minister Sharma expressed gratitude on behalf of the state and assured efficient utilization of the funds to create rural employment opportunities.
The leaders also reviewed the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin). Minister Chouhan praised Rajasthan’s efforts under the scheme and assured timely approval for additional housing once the ongoing surveys are verified. A total of 7.46 lakh rural houses are expected to be built in the state, including those under the PM-JANMAN scheme.
Agriculture-related discussions touched upon the progress of ‘Per Drop More Crop’ under PMKSY, the construction of rainwater harvesting structures, and fencing initiatives to protect crops. Chief Minister proposed deploying agricultural supervisors at the Gram Panchayat level to strengthen grassroots agricultural extension, requesting central assistance for the same.
Both sides also explored opportunities to boost interstate trade and sought national-level recognition for Rajasthan’s premium peanut varieties and castor oil. CM Sharma briefed the Union Minister about the good rainfall in the state this monsoon, expressing optimism about an improved agricultural yield in 2025.
The meeting was attended by Union Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary, Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi, Rural Development Secretary Shailesh Singh, ICAR Director General Dr. M.L. Jat, and senior officials from both central and state governments.
