On August 11, 2024, at approximately 11 AM, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil 109 high-yielding, climate-resilient, and biofortified crop varieties at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi. The event will also feature an interaction between the Prime Minister, farmers, and scientists.
Union Minister of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare, and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, addressed the media on August 10, 2024, outlining the upcoming initiatives to be launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the press conference, Chouhan stressed the crucial role of agriculture in India's economy, describing farmers as the backbone of the nation.
The release will include 109 varieties across 61 crops, comprising 34 field crops and 27 horticultural crops. Among the field crops, the new varieties will cover cereals, millets, forage crops, oilseeds, pulses, sugarcane, cotton, and other potential crops. The horticultural crops will encompass a range of fruits, vegetables, plantation crops, tubers, spices, flowers, and medicinal plants.
"Today, the agriculture sector employs nearly 50% of the population. Farmers are not only producers but also major consumers, contributing significantly to the nation's GDP," Chouhan remarked. He highlighted that under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, the government has prioritized increasing farmers' income and fortifying the agricultural sector.
Chouhan outlined a comprehensive six-point strategy designed to boost farmers' income, focusing on increasing agricultural production, reducing production costs, and ensuring fair prices for their produce. The plan also includes providing compensation for losses caused by natural disasters, promoting diversification into areas such as horticulture, medicinal plants, beekeeping, and value-added products, and encouraging the adoption of natural farming practices.
He underscored the importance of quality seeds in increasing production and reducing costs, especially in the face of climate change. "With rising global temperatures, there is a need for climate-resilient seeds that yield well and require fewer pesticides. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is at the forefront of developing such seeds, having recently developed 109 new varieties," Chouhan said. These include varieties for cereals, oilseeds, fodder, and horticulture, tailored to different agro-climatic zones.
One of the key announcements during the conference was the launch of a new variety of rice that requires 20% less water while providing higher yields. This innovation, along with others, will be officially released by Prime Minister Modi during his visit to Pusa, Delhi, August 11, 2024. Chouhan noted that this release would not be a traditional ceremony but rather a direct engagement with the agricultural fields, showcasing the practical application of these new varieties.
Chouhan also stressed the importance of translating scientific research into tangible benefits for farmers, ensuring that the advancements in agriculture reach the grassroots level. "The agriculture budget has seen a significant increase from Rs. 27,000 crores during the UPA government to Rs. 1.52 lakh crores under the current administration, including allied sectors. Last year alone, Rs. 1.95 lakh crores were provided as fertilizer subsidies," he added.
Prime Minister Modi has consistently advocated for sustainable farming practices and the adoption of climate-resilient methods. He has also promoted the use of biofortified crop varieties through various government programs, such as Mid-Day Meal and Anganwadi, to combat malnutrition in India. This initiative aims to enhance farmers' income and create new entrepreneurial opportunities, furthering his commitment to advancing agricultural innovation and sustainability.
The Minister also announced a special package of Rs. 2,625 crores to offset the additional costs incurred due to international shipping detours for fertilizers. This package aims to shield farmers from the financial burden caused by global circumstances.
Irrigation, another critical aspect of agriculture, was also addressed, with Chouhan noting that significant provisions have been made under the Ministry of Water Power for field irrigation. In addition, a new budget has been allocated for building two crore houses for the poor in rural areas.
Horticulture is receiving focused attention as well, with the Clean Plant Program being introduced to prevent the spread of viruses in fruit plants. The government has approved Rs. 1,700 crores for this program, which will establish nine centers dedicated to producing virus-free cuttings for farmers engaged in horticulture.
In conclusion, Chouhan reiterated the government's commitment to continuously improving agriculture and rural development, ensuring that farmers remain at the center of India's economic growth.
