Can India Become the Food Basket of the World? - Shivraj Singh Chouhan
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Synopsis
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan assures citizens of abundant food supplies, emphasizing a vision for India to become the food basket of the world. At the National Agriculture Conference, he outlines strategies for farmer welfare, agricultural growth, and the importance of effective policies to support the nation's farmers.
Key Takeaways
- India's agricultural growth is at 3.7%
- Focus on farmer welfare and support
- Implementation of effective crop insurance
- Research to address farmers' challenges
- Unity between Centre and states is vital
New Delhi, Sep 16 (NationPress) Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has confidently declared that the nation will ensure an abundance of food grains, fruits, and vegetables, positioning India as the food basket of the world.
During the two-day ‘National Agriculture Conference – Rabi Abhiyan 2025’, Chouhan highlighted that India's agricultural growth stands at an impressive 3.7 percent, the highest globally, crediting the dedication of our farmers and scientists as well as the government's supportive policies.
He stressed unity between the Centre and state governments, asserting, “For our country, its people, and our farmers, we will tirelessly collaborate as their welfare is our top priority.”
“We are privileged to hold the responsibility of transforming India’s agricultural sector. We are not ordinary individuals; we are the architects of the future for half of the nation’s populace. It is crucial that we work diligently. Our primary focus is the farmer and their upliftment,” Chouhan emphasized.
Furthermore, he announced that only compliant bio-stimulants (plant growth enhancers) would be permitted for sale.
“We will protect farmers from exploitation. Agricultural extension services are vital; in partnership with the Central Government, all state agriculture departments, agricultural universities, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, and related organizations must develop actionable programs and strategies and expedite ground-level efforts. Officers should enhance the value of their work,” he stated.
“Our commitment is solely to agriculture and farmers, and we will dedicate ourselves to this cause. The Rabi Conference aims to explore ways to improve farmers' conditions,” he added.
Chouhan noted the increasing unpredictability of weather patterns, advocating for broader coverage of farmers under crop insurance, urging officials to prioritize this.
“The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana must be effectively executed to provide relief to farmers. The ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ will again be launched in October with collaborative efforts from the Centre and states. Moving forward, agricultural research must concentrate on resolving farmers’ challenges rather than just publishing academic papers. In flood-affected regions, the administration must act swiftly to deliver relief,” Chouhan insisted.
The conference is being attended by senior officials from both the Centre and states, scientists from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), agricultural experts, farmer representatives, and other stakeholders.
Point of View
It’s vital to recognize that the commitment to transform India’s agricultural landscape is crucial not only for farmers but for the entire nation. The unity between central and state governments is key to ensuring that policies effectively address the challenges faced by farmers, and the emphasis on research and practical solutions will be pivotal in shaping the future of agriculture in India.
NationPress
16/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is India's goal regarding agriculture?
India aims to become the food basket of the world by ensuring an abundance of food grains, fruits, and vegetables.
What is the current growth rate of agriculture in India?
India's agriculture is growing at 3.7 percent, which is the highest in the world.
How will the government protect farmers?
The government will not allow exploitation and will focus on providing effective agricultural extension services and support.
What is the focus of agricultural research going forward?
Future agricultural research will prioritize solving real problems faced by farmers rather than merely publishing academic papers.
What measures are being taken for crop insurance?
More farmers are encouraged to enroll in crop insurance due to increasing weather unpredictability, with a focus on implementing the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana effectively.
