How is PM Modi Transforming Agriculture with the Nationwide ‘Lab to Land’ Campaign?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 2000 teams will assist farmers nationwide.
- Focus on bridging the knowledge gap for farmers.
- Promoting modern agricultural techniques is crucial for growth.
- Various income-generating initiatives are being introduced.
- Farmers are encouraged to engage with experts for better outcomes.
New Delhi, May 29 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently urged the nation’s agricultural scientists and specialists to launch the “lab to land” initiative in rural areas through the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, embodying a spirit of national service rather than just fulfilling routine government duties.
Speaking at the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’, PM Modi noted that as the monsoon season approaches and the preparations for the Kharif season begin, in the next 12 to 15 days, around 2000 teams comprising scientists, experts, officials, and progressive farmers will be dispatched across more than 700 districts, reaching millions of farmers in villages.
PM Modi mentioned that through this campaign, scientific teams will move from lab to land, providing farmers with comprehensive data and equipping them with modern agricultural knowledge. He stressed that these teams will be prepared to support farmers before the Kharif season kicks off.
Recognizing that agriculture has traditionally been under state jurisdiction, with each state crafting its own policies for farmers' welfare, PM Modi pointed out that the rapidly changing landscape necessitates significant reforms in India's agricultural sector.
He acknowledged the remarkable achievements of Indian farmers in achieving record production levels, filling grain reserves, but emphasized the need for modern reforms to align agricultural practices with evolving market dynamics and consumer preferences.
Highlighting the notable research breakthroughs made by India's agricultural scientists over the years and their positive influence on farming outcomes, the Prime Minister commended progressive farmers who have successfully adopted new techniques, resulting in impressive yields.
Stressing the importance of disseminating scientific research and successful farming practices to the broader farming community, PM Modi noted that although efforts have been made, there is an urgent need to accelerate these initiatives with renewed vigor.
“Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan serves as a significant opportunity to bridge the knowledge gap, enabling farmers to access cutting-edge agricultural insights,” the Prime Minister stated.
He asserted that for a Viksit Bharat, India’s agricultural sector must also evolve, outlining several critical focus areas of the central government aimed at transforming agriculture. He identified essential issues, including ensuring fair prices for farmers' produce, bolstering the agricultural economy, and aligning crop production with national demands.
“India must not only cater to its own needs but also aspire to become a global food supplier,” PM Modi reiterated, underlining the importance of addressing climate change challenges, enhancing grain production with minimal water usage, safeguarding soil health from harmful chemicals, modernizing farming techniques, and integrating science and technology into the fields.
He emphasized that the government has made extensive efforts in these areas over the past 10-11 years.
PM Modi encouraged all participants in the campaign to maximize farmer awareness, ensuring they are well-informed about modern agricultural advancements.
He highlighted the importance of providing farmers with additional income sources beyond traditional agriculture, showcasing key initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for farmers.
He suggested that installing solar panels along field boundaries could generate extra revenue and referenced the Sweet Revolution, noting that beekeeping is already benefiting farmers and should be expanded to include more participants. The Prime Minister also stressed the need to convert agricultural residues into energy, turning waste into wealth.
He pointed out the significance of identifying suitable areas for cultivating ‘Shri Anna’ and enhancing value addition in agricultural products.
The Prime Minister also highlighted that even non-milking cattle are contributing to the economy through the Gobardhan Yojana, which creates income-generating opportunities. He called for comprehensive farmer awareness regarding these innovations to ensure maximum participation and benefits.
“India’s agriculture must become a cornerstone of a developed India,” PM Modi emphasized, underscoring the scale of this mission. He urged farmers to engage actively with visiting scientists, encouraging them to ask questions and seek valuable insights.
He called upon officials to address farmers' queries thoroughly while also documenting their valuable suggestions.
“Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan will pave the way for new progress for India's farmers, driving modernization in agriculture,” he added.