New Delhi, Jan 31 (NationPress) Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated on Saturday that the implementation of modern agricultural technology and integrated farming systems could lead to a substantial increase in farmers’ income in Chhattisgarh.

During a review meeting held at the state level, followed by a press briefing in Raipur, he commended the accomplishments of the state in the realms of agriculture and rural development under the stewardship of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.

The Union Minister disclosed that a collaborative team comprising scientists, farmers, and officials from both the Central and State governments will be assembled this week to devise strategies focused on crop diversification and enhancing productivity tailored to local climatic conditions.

"A particular emphasis will be placed on integrated farming systems to establish multiple income avenues for small and marginal farmers," he remarked.

Chouhan visited Khapri village to engage with farmers and assess the adoption of advanced farming techniques.

He observed cutting-edge methods in fruit and vegetable cultivation, including grafting nurseries, the Bhata method for growing tomatoes and capsicum, as well as the cultivation of crops such as dragon fruit, dates, blueberries, and bananas.

He pointed out that while traditional crops typically yield an income of Rs 35,000 to Rs 40,000 per acre, modern horticulture and high-tech farming can elevate this to Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh per acre.

He mentioned that farmers are being instructed on the scientific application of pesticides, disease management, and high-yield crop varieties by teams from the agriculture department.

"The government will also advocate for pulse cultivation on fallow lands and ensure the procurement of lentil, urad, moong, and arhar at the Minimum Support Price," the Union Minister elaborated.

He further noted that oilseed crops such as groundnut, mustard, and palm oil will receive encouragement.

Emphasizing the significance of integrated farming systems, Chouhan explained that these will encompass animal husbandry, fisheries, horticulture, organic farming, and industrial crops to ensure farmers have a stable and diversified income.

In sharing achievements in rural development, he highlighted that over 18 lakh houses have been sanctioned and delivered in the state under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana over the past year and a half. Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, more than 10,000 roads covering nearly 48,000 kilometres and 123 major bridges have been constructed.