New Delhi, Oct 4 (NationPress) The Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, attended the Rabi Workshop and Agricultural Advisory Dialogue in Patna during his visit to Bihar.

While addressing a gathering of agricultural scientists, advisors, and farmers, Chouhan proclaimed, “Agriculture is the foundation of India’s economy, and farmers embody its essence. Honoring farmers is akin to revering the divine.”

Reflecting on India’s agricultural evolution, the Union Minister remarked, “There was an era when India relied on imports of red wheat from the United States via the PL-480 programme. Today, our granaries overflow with wheat and rice, enabling India to export food grains globally.” He attributed this remarkable growth to the relentless efforts of farmers and the essential contributions of agriculture advisors.

Chouhan emphasized the importance of agriculture advisors, stating that their role is critical in translating research laboratory outcomes into practical applications. “The Government acknowledges the significance of agricultural advisors and is dedicated to safeguarding their dignity and interests,” he stated.

Discussing Bihar’s capabilities in pulses and maize, he stated, “With the Pulses Mission, India will attain self-sufficiency in pulse production, and agriculture advisors will be pivotal in this mission.” He also mentioned the recent increase in Minimum Support Prices (MSP) sanctioned by the Union Cabinet.

During the event, Chouhan highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana is directed at districts with lower productivity, including many in Bihar. “This initiative will see 11 departments collaborate and coordinate efforts to enhance agricultural productivity,” he added.

Referencing the Prime Minister’s principle of ‘Rashtrahit Sarvopari’ (Nation First), Chouhan asserted that India will uphold the welfare of its farmers. “India is progressing as an independent and sovereign nation, charting its own course,” he affirmed.

Commending Bihar’s farmers, the Union Minister noted that the state remains a leader in various crops, and agriculture will sustain its role as the strongest pillar of India’s prosperity in the future.