Ramnath Thakur, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, undertook a two-day visit to Varanasi district on June 11 and 12, 2025, as part of the nationwide Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan—an initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare to promote sustainable agricultural practices, advanced technologies, and direct farmer engagement.
The ICAR–Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR), in collaboration with the International Rice Research Institute – South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC), organized a field visit to demonstrate Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) technology and other sustainable practices aimed at addressing climate challenges and improving farm productivity.
On June 11, the Minister visited Paniyara village, where the ISARC team, led by Dr. R. K. Malik and Dr. Anthony, presented the benefits of DSR in a field sown on May 26, 2025, under vattar (moist soil) conditions. A live field demonstration using a step seeder showcased uniform row and plant spacing, allowing for easier mechanized weed control. Dr. Malik noted that ISARC, in partnership with the Government of Uttar Pradesh, is implementing 200 hectares of DSR cluster demonstrations across eight districts in the Varanasi and Gorakhpur divisions during the Kharif season.
During his interaction with farmers, Minister Thakur observed how they are adopting DSR to reduce the need for water-intensive transplanting, thereby conserving water, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and increasing efficiency. He lauded their efforts in embracing technologies that reduce labor and improve productivity.
Speaking to the farmers, Thakur said, “We discussed key agricultural challenges with farmers and urged scientists to offer field-level guidance. The Prime Minister had earlier asked how we can grow rice using less water. In response, scientists identified DSR as a viable solution that can cut water use by up to 30%. I appreciate the IRRI South Asia Regional Centre for playing a crucial role in promoting DSR and other science-based innovations that support sustainable and climate-resilient farming in eastern India.”
Delivering the vote of thanks, Dr. R. K. Malik said, “A special meeting was held to address farmers’ concerns, and officials assured timely solutions. We are thankful to the Minister for patiently listening and reaffirming his commitment to farmer welfare. His continued support will further the adoption of sustainable practices like DSR in the region.”
On June 12, Minister Thakur inaugurated the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Varanasi, and held discussions with scientists, agricultural officers, and farmers. He emphasized the key role of KVKs and ISARC in translating research into real-world solutions and highlighted the need to mainstream efficient technologies like DSR across rice-growing areas.
The Minister also visited the ISARC exhibition stalls on both days, where he reviewed climate-resilient rice varieties, rice-based nutritious products, and technologies suited for smallholder farmers. He appreciated ISARC’s efforts in showcasing practical and scalable innovations tailored to local agroecological conditions.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Director of IIVR Varanasi, delivered the vote of thanks on the second day at KVK Varanasi. He expressed gratitude to ISARC and its team for their valuable contributions in promoting sustainable farming and organizing the event successfully.
Concluding his visit, Minister Thakur reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to advancing climate-resilient agriculture, reducing input costs, and improving rural livelihoods through innovation, institutional collaboration, and farmer-centric policies.
