Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, conducted a high-level review of the agriculture sector at Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi. The meeting focused on crop losses caused by recent heavy rainfall, hailstorms, and adverse weather conditions across several states, along with discussions on insurance claims and relief measures. The Minister emphasized that the government’s priority goes beyond increasing production it also includes scientific assessment of crop damage and ensuring timely support to farmers.
During the review, the Minister directed officials to strengthen coordination with state governments wherever farmers have been affected. He stressed the need to conduct Crop Cutting Experiments promptly and assess losses using scientific methods, ensuring that farmers receive relief and insurance payouts without delay. He also made it clear that no farmer should be left waiting for assistance.
The meeting also reviewed weather forecasts, particularly in light of possible western disturbances in the coming days. The Minister called for a coordinated action plan involving the agriculture department, state governments, and related institutions to ensure timely advisories and risk mitigation strategies for farmers.
Highlighting the importance of pulses, the Minister urged acceleration of the self-reliance mission in this sector. He assured that crops such as tur, masur, and urad would be procured in adequate quantities so that farmers are not forced to sell below the Minimum Support Price (MSP). He also emphasized strengthening the role of agencies like NAFED and NCCF in procurement operations.
The Minister highlighted that agricultural policies will now place equal emphasis on quality alongside production. Citing the example of Sharbati wheat from Madhya Pradesh, he noted that superior quality fetches premium prices in the market. He encouraged the adoption of improved varieties and bio-fortified crops to enhance farmer incomes.
Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan and Regional Outreach:
Preparations for the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan were also reviewed. This initiative aims to deliver scientific guidance, advanced technologies, and crop-specific advisory services to farmers. Regional conferences will be organized across the country, bringing together scientists, agricultural experts, progressive farmers, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).
Strengthening the Value Chain from Seed to Market:
Government is working on a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the entire agricultural value chain from seed to market. Crop-specific and state-specific roadmaps are being developed to improve productivity, quality, and market access. Overall, the Centre’s proactive approach reflects a strong commitment to safeguarding farmers’ interests by ensuring timely assistance, fair pricing, and a more resilient agricultural ecosystem.
FAQs:
Q1. What is the focus of the Minister’s high-level review?
The review focuses on crop losses, insurance claims, relief measures, and strengthening scientific crop assessment.
Q2. Which crops are part of the Pulses Self-Reliance Mission?
Crops such as tur, masur, and urad are prioritized for procurement at MSP.
Q3. How is crop damage assessed scientifically?
Through Crop Cutting Experiments and other scientific methods to ensure accurate loss evaluation.
Q4. What is Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan?
It is an initiative delivering advanced agricultural technologies, guidance, and advisory services to farmers.
Q5. How does Khetivyapar support farmers?
Khetivyapar provides timely updates, expert insights, and guidance on government schemes, crop management, and market trends.
