Union Minister of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, addressed a large gathering of farmers at the 'Krishi Samvaad' convention, organized under the ‘Vikasit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ in Nagpur on May 18, 2025. The high-profile event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, State Agriculture Minister Adv. Manikrao Kokate, and senior officials from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), among others.
In his keynote address, Chouhan launched a transformative initiative titled 'One Nation, One Agriculture, One Team,' emphasizing a collaborative approach towards agricultural development. He called upon the Central and State governments, agricultural scientists, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), ICAR institutes, and local representatives to work in unison to revolutionize Indian agriculture. “If all institutions coordinate their efforts, define clear targets, and develop structured roadmaps, we can create wonders in this sector,” Chouhan asserted.
He praised Maharashtra as the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and hailed the hardworking and progressive spirit of its farmers. Applauding Chief Minister Fadnavis’ ongoing efforts to uplift the agricultural sector, Chouhan reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to increasing farmers' income and ensuring self-reliance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Major Announcements
Chouhan made a significant announcement about the establishment of a national-level laboratory in Pune under the Clean Plant Program, focusing on the research and preservation of original plant species. The program is aimed at promoting disease-free, high-quality nurseries and enhancing overall agricultural productivity through better seeds, soil testing, and cost-effective practices.
The Union Minister also shared that ICAR operates 113 institutes across India, with 11 located in Maharashtra. He revealed plans to convene a meeting of all ICAR institute heads at the National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS & LUP) in Nagpur to chart a developmental roadmap tailored for Maharashtra.
Chouhan announced a nationwide outreach initiative from May 29 to June 12, during which ICAR’s 16,000 scientists and agricultural extension officers will visit villages to educate farmers on sustainable practices and preparations for the upcoming Kharif season.
Inauguration of National Soil Spectral Library: Maharashtra Becomes First State to have a Soil Map
As part of the day’s proceedings, Chouhan and Fadnavis inaugurated the National Soil Spectral Library at NBSS & LUP. The facility, powered by hyperspectral sensor technology, will house vital data on soil health parameters such as pH levels, density, and nutrient composition. With this, Maharashtra has become the first state in India to have a comprehensive soil map.
Additionally, the minister launched an AI-based Smart Trap system designed to detect and manage pink bollworm infestations in cotton crops, providing real-time alerts to farmers and aiding in pest control efforts.
State Government Initiatives
Chief Minister Fadnavis highlighted the Wainganga-Nalganga River Linking Project, expected to boost irrigation capabilities in the Vidarbha region. He pledged full support for the inclusive agricultural policies announced by the Union Government.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Adv. Manikrao Kokate addressed the issue of labor shortages during cotton harvesting and mentioned ongoing research into battery-operated mini-tractors. If proven effective, these innovations will be submitted to the Union Agriculture Ministry for consideration.
Felicitation of Progressive Farmers
The event also recognized and felicitated farmers from the Nagpur division excelling in natural farming, organic cultivation, and activities under Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). The initiative aimed to encourage innovative and sustainable farming models. The Krishi Samvaad convention witnessed participation from a vast number of farmers, agricultural scientists, and government officials, reaffirming the collective resolve to drive India towards a self-reliant and prosperous agricultural future.
