Why Did Shivraj Chouhan Meet Farmers in Bihar on the 5th Day of 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan'?

New Delhi, June 2 (NationPress) As part of the ongoing ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, engaged with farmers on the fifth day of the initiative at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra located in Piprakothi, East Champaran, Bihar.

In his ongoing mission to connect with farmers from Odisha, Jammu, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, Chouhan interacted with the agricultural community of Bihar on Monday.

While addressing the audience, the Minister referred to Piprakothi in East Champaran as sacred ground, highlighting that this land witnessed Mahatma Gandhi imparting his powerful message of Satyagraha and non-violence.

He expressed profound respect for the region, stating that under the principles of Mahatma Gandhi and the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, various initiatives, including the establishment of a Krishi Vigyan Kendra, have significantly advanced agriculture in the area. The Union Minister recalled how this land became a symbol of justice when local farmers were oppressed by the British, and Gandhiji’s movement here was pivotal for India’s struggle for freedom.

Chouhan asserted that the true essence of an Agriculture Minister is to be the foremost servant of farmers. He underscored that agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy, and farmers are its heart. He stated that the Prime Minister's vision of a developed India can only be achieved through flourishing agriculture and prosperous farmers, emphasizing the necessity of collective action in this endeavor.

During his visit, he specifically engaged with litchi growers who expressed concerns about their fruit deteriorating within 48 hours, causing financial losses. The Minister promised that the government would take tangible measures to resolve the issue and instructed ICAR scientists to research methods to extend the shelf life of litchis, ensuring farmers receive fair prices. He also discussed increasing the number of cold storage facilities to assist in this effort.

Chouhan pointed out that due to the Prime Minister's effective policies, maize cultivation in Bihar has seen substantial growth. With the introduction of ethanol production, the demand and prices for maize have risen. Previously, maize sold for Rs 1200-Rs 1500 per quintal, but prices have now escalated significantly. Yields have also improved, from 23-24 quintals per hectare to 50-60 quintals per hectare.

He instructed scientists to innovate improved seed varieties for both Basmati and other rice types to further boost yields. Despite having small plots of land, Bihar’s farmers are, he remarked, producing gold from the soil. He shared that two new rice varieties have recently been developed that require 20% less water while increasing yield by 30%.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to enhancing crop production in Bihar under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, Chouhan stressed the need to not only increase grain output but also to focus on fruits, vegetables, and flowers, ensuring that all 1.45 billion citizens have access to adequate nutrition.

He condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and remarked that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India responded decisively by dismantling terrorist camps in just 25 minutes, compelling Pakistan to retreat within three days. He also mentioned that the Indus Waters Treaty, which previously allocated 80% of river water to Pakistan, has been annulled, asserting that “blood and water cannot flow together.” Indian water is designated for Indian farmers.

Addressing concerns about counterfeit pesticides, he pledged that stringent action would be taken against companies producing fake agrochemicals, assuring that no one would be spared. Chouhan emphasized that ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ aims to create miracles in agriculture and bridge the gap between research labs and farming fields. Under this campaign, 16,000 scientists are stepping out of their labs to engage directly with farmers in villages.

In his concluding remarks, Chouhan, adhering to the mantra of ‘One Nation–One Agriculture–One Team’, assured that every possible effort will be made for farmers' prosperity. Plans are also underway to explore the export potential of Bihar’s flattened rice (chidwa). He concluded his address with the statement, “Annadata Sukhi Bhavah—if our food providers are happy, the nation will be happy.”

The event witnessed a large turnout of farmers, along with MP Radha Mohan Singh, local MLAs, scientists, and government officials.