Is There Really No Shortage of Funds for Agricultural Research Under PM Modi's Government?

Synopsis
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan reassures that the Modi government is committed to agricultural research funding. With the upcoming 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' campaign, scientists are poised to engage directly with farmers. This initiative aims to boost productivity and ensure food security across India, connecting various stakeholders in agriculture for a common goal.
Key Takeaways
- Modi government assures continuous funding for agricultural research.
- The 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' aims to connect scientists with farmers.
- Direct engagement is expected to enhance agricultural productivity.
- Campaign launches on May 29 from Puri, Odisha.
- India's agricultural institutions are encouraged to showcase research on a global level.
New Delhi, May 24 (NationPress) There will be no lack of financial support for agricultural research under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stated Union Minister for Agriculture, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, on Saturday.
While addressing agricultural scientists here, the minister expressed that his life is devoted to uplifting farmers, enhancing agricultural yield, lowering production expenses, ensuring food security, filling the nation's food basket, and protecting the agricultural interests of future generations.
He underscored that the balanced application of fertilizers, comprehension of local conditions, utilization of precise research insights, and access to quality seeds can significantly aid farmers in increasing their productivity.
Chouhan emphasized the significance of collaboration, noting that the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ represents a crucial step in connecting scientists, department officials, and farmers—a connection that has been lacking.
The minister also called upon the nation’s scientists to present their research prowess on a global platform, affirming that India’s agricultural institutions possess the strength and excellence capable of gaining international acclaim.
He praised the commitment of agricultural scientists and mentioned that the nation will express its gratitude to them after the successful conclusion of this initiative.
Under Chouhan's guidance, preparations for the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ are in the final stages.
This extensive campaign will officially commence on May 29 from Puri, Odisha.
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, in collaboration with state governments, are fully engaged in the planning and implementation of this large-scale initiative.
As per Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, India has a net cropped area of 210 million hectares. Even a slight enhancement of one quintal per hectare in productivity could yield a considerable increase in overall agricultural production.
The ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ will take place from May 29 to June 12 across more than 700 districts. Scientists will travel from village to village, facilitating direct interaction with farmers.